Ram will replace the Hemi eTorque system during the 2027 model year. Early 2027 trucks will still use the outgoing mild-hybrid V8. The change eliminates stop-start and the 48-volt hybrid hardware. The Hemi V8 isn’t dead, but it’s about to change for the upcoming model year. For 2026, every 1500 pickup sold by Ram with the Hemi came with the brand’s eTorque mild-hybrid system. That’s changing as the hybrid is going away for good. For buyers who wanted the Hemi back without the extra electrical hardware, their patience is about to pay off. According to a statement provided by Ram to MoparInsiders, the transition will begin early in the 2027 model year. The traditional 5.7-liter Hemi retains its familiar output of 395 hp (294 kW) and 410 lb-ft (556 Nm) of torque. Ram has not yet said whether pricing or EPA fuel economy ratings will change once the swap is complete. More: Ram 1500 SRT TRX Returns With 777 HP, And That’s Not Even The Best Part It will also keep the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) cylinder deactivation that shuts down four cylinders under light loads to improve fuel economy. What disappears is the belt-driven motor-generator, 48-volt battery pack, and automatic stop-start functionality that came with eTorque. For many truck buyers, that means the engine will behave much like older Hemis, starting conventionally and idling normally at traffic lights rather than cycling on and off. That one change alone will excite some buyers. Ram sort of hinted at this when it announced that the 2027 Rumble Bee would use a non-hybrid Hemi. That said, the transition won’t happen overnight. Early 2027 production will include both versions of the engine while the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant shifts to the conventional setup. In other words, some buyers might be able to briefly spec the hybrid if they still want it at that time. The move also broadens an already diverse engine lineup. For 2027, Ram expects to offer everything from the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 to the 777 hp (580 kW) supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, alongside multiple Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engines. Removing eTorque from the 5.7-liter simply gives traditional V8 buyers another option rather than forcing every Hemi customer into a mild-hybrid powertrain. Photos: Stephen Rivers for Carscoops
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