A new report indicates that the brand will be dropping its mild-hybrid assistance from the 5.7-liter Hemi going forward.When Ram reintroduced the 5.7-liter Hemi to the 1500 pickup, the brand was so proud of the moment that it even designed a "symbol of protest" badge in celebration.It's a little ironic, honestly. Because although the move did mark the return of a V8 once dropped in the name of emissions, its revival was accompanied by eTorque tech. Yep, a mild hybrid.Ram created the "symbol of protest" badge to celebrate the revival of its 5.7-liter Hemi V8 powertrain for the 1500. - Credit: StellantisBut now it seems the brand is ready to prove its commitment once again. If the latest reports are to be believed, Ram will soon drop eTorque from its 1500 pickups in favor of the simpler, gas-only setup.Down with Hemi eTorqueThe confirmation comes courtesy of Mopar Insiders, as the outlet received word from a spokesperson stating that "Starting early in the 2027 model year, Ram will phase out the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 eTorque, replacing it with the non-hybridized version of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8."Ram has only offered the 5.7-liter Hemi with its eTorque system since the engine's return. - Credit: StellantisMind you, when the truck brand first introduced its eTorque tech in 2019, it continued to offer the Hemi-only option alongside it. However, eventually (even before the V8's hiatus in 2025), Ram made the truck exclusively available in hybrid form.AdvertisementAdvertisementNow, that's not with good reason. As Ram's eTorque system incorporates a belt-driven motor-generator connected to a 48-volt battery in place of an alternator, it not only recharges the 12-volt battery and accessories but also works to reduce emissions and improve gas mileage.Ram's eTorque system adds complexity (and weight). - Credit: StellantisThat once made it a requirement for the truck to remain compliant, especially as Ram worked to reintroduce the 5.7-liter Hemi. However, between regulatory rollbacks and additional development time, the brand's non-eTorque setup is once again a viable option.The cost of complexityNow, that isn't without some downsides. Along with saving drivers a little fuel, Ram's eTorque system provided up to an extra 130 lb-ft of torque to the V8 upon take-off.More traditional truck buyers are bound to appreciate the return to simplicity. - Credit: StellantisIt's also responsible for the pickup's auto stop/start function. As a result, though Ram's 5.7-liter Hemi trucks will continue to feature cylinder deactivation, they'll no longer cut the engine off when at traffic lights.AdvertisementAdvertisementIn that sense, Ram's decision to drop the eTorque is bound to be a boon for truck owners who like to keep things more traditional. By going with gas-only power once again, the pickup would ditch 120 pounds of hybrid hardware.Moreover, this makes it a less complicated setup. Seeing as some owners have experienced everything from stalling and starting trouble to outright MGU failure, the return to simplicity should result in a little peace of mind.Ram's eTorque system saved a little fuel and helped with auto stop/start, but it didn't provide the same advantages as a more committed hybrid setup. - Credit: StellantisIf nothing else, though, it'll feel like a truck that Ram fans know. In the absence of any hybrid assist, it'll start, stop and haul once again like a traditional Hemi rig.A staggered roll-outAccording to Mopar Insiders, "A limited number of 2027 model year Ram 1500s will be built with the eTorque powertrain during the production transition."AdvertisementAdvertisementAs such, even though Ram will eventually kill off its eTorque Hemis altogether, it won't be doing so in one fell swoop. At this stage, the brand has only announced its Rumble Bee and TRX pickups.About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.
