Ram 2500 Emergency Response Vehicle Passes MSP Tests

Stellantis presented the Ram 2500 ERV, the first heavy-duty pursuit-capable truck to pass Michigan State Police tests. Explore specs, testing results and context.

The Ram 2500 Emergency Response Vehicle has become the first heavy-duty pickup to complete Michigan State Police testing and demonstrate pursuit-capable performance — a segment traditionally dominated by SUVs and lighter vehicles.

The 2027 model is built specifically for law enforcement, fire and rescue agencies. It is based on the Ram 2500 Special Service Vehicle but adds reinforced hardware, underbody protection, expanded electrical systems and integration for specialized equipment. Under the hood is a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter HEMI V8 producing 405 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

In terms of performance, the truck trails lighter police vehicles but still meets MSP benchmarks. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 8.41 seconds and reaches 100 mph in about 20.5 seconds, with a top speed of 103 mph. More importantly, it completed the full test cycle — including 32 laps at Grattan Raceway, repeated braking runs and durability checks — without major failures.

This helps explain its role. In recent years, police fleets have been moving away from traditional sedans toward more versatile SUVs and pickups that can handle varied terrain and carry more equipment. MSP testing now regularly includes vehicles such as the Ford F-150 Police Responder, Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Police Interceptor, reflecting this shift.

Within that landscape, the Ram 2500 occupies a distinct position. It does not compete on outright speed — the F-150 accelerates faster, and SUVs reach higher top speeds. Instead, it offers capabilities those vehicles cannot match: higher towing capacity, greater load handling and stability under heavy-duty use.

Its equipment reinforces that purpose. Dual alternators rated at 400 amps provide power for auxiliary systems, while dedicated wiring and interface modules simplify installation of communications and emergency hardware. A column shifter frees up interior space for operational equipment.

The introduction of such a vehicle reflects changing priorities in law enforcement fleets. Speed remains important, but versatility and durability in demanding environments are becoming just as critical — particularly outside urban areas, where vehicles like the Ram 2500 ERV are expected to play a larger role.

Deliveries are scheduled for the second half of 2026, with the model joining Stellantis’ broader lineup of law enforcement vehicles alongside SUVs and special service trucks.