​Truck enthusiasts know there’s nothing like a HEMI® engine.
The legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 has long been the heart of Ram trucks, delivering the kind of muscle you count on for towing, hauling, and everyday strength. But the 2026 Ram 1500 takes that power to the next level with eTorque technology. This mild-hybrid system is designed to make V8 performance both stronger and smarter to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and capability without sacrificing the rumble you love.
At Legacy CDJR in Florence, SC, we’re breaking down exactly how eTorque works and why it’s a game-changer for Ram 1500 drivers across the Carolinas.
The Impressive 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with eTorque
The Ram 1500’s standard 3.0L Hurricane engine delivers 420 horsepower and a maximum 469 lb.-ft of torque.
eTorque, a class-exclusive available V8 hybrid system, replaces the traditional engine-mounted alternator with a belt-driven motor-generator unit. This unit, powered by a 48-volt battery pack, offers quick and seamless engine start/stop functionality. It delivers 305 horsepower, a maximum towing capacity of 8,130 pounds, and 269 lb-ft of torque for fuel-efficient performance. Additional performance-enhancing features include:
- Variable valve timing
- Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation)
- An 850-watt electric cooling fan, which uses Pulse Width Modulation to tailor its energy consumption to meet cooling demands
Now we know what to expect from the eTorque engine, let’s take a look at how it all works.
eTorque Technology Explained
The eTorque mild-hybrid system stores energy in a compact, air-cooled 430-watt-hour lithium-ion battery, which is housed in a noise-insulated enclosure behind the rear seat. Dual cooling fans maintain optimal battery temperatures while remaining acoustically transparent to passengers.
A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter charges the truck’s conventional 12-volt battery and powers accessories by stepping down the 48-volt DC voltage. For cold-weather starts, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 retains a traditional starter motor.
In addition to its start/stop functionality, eTorque enhances shifts, improves fuel-saving cylinder deactivation, and smooths transitions during acceleration and braking. This all contributes to less noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
2026 Ram Engine Lineup
The 2026 Ram lineup offers three distinct engine options: the HEMI V8 eTorque, a 3.0L Hurricane, and a high-output 3.0L Hurricane.
|
|
|
Hemi V8 eTorque |
3L Hurricane SO |
3L Hurricane HO |
|
Availability |
|
Winter 2025 |
In stock |
In stock |
|
Displacement |
L |
5.7 |
3.0 |
3.0 |
|
Power |
HP |
305 |
420 |
540 |
|
Torque |
lb.-ft. |
269 |
469 |
521 |
|
CO2 emissions |
g/km |
362 |
311 |
338 |
|
Fuel consumption |
MPG combined |
20 |
19 |
17 |
|
0-100 km/h |
sec |
7.8 |
5.3 |
4.6 |
Discover Smarter Power with the 2026 Ram 1500 eTorque
The 2026 Ram 1500 with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 and eTorque system proves that raw strength and modern efficiency can work hand in hand. By blending legendary HEMI® performance with advanced hybrid technology, Ram delivers a truck that’s built for towing, hauling, and daily driving while helping you save at the pump. If you’re searching for a new Ram 1500 for sale in Florence, SC, make Legacy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram your first stop!
Visit us today to test drive the 2026 Ram 1500 and see why it’s one of the best full-size trucks in South Carolina!