The 2015 Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI 4x4 does not have electric power steering from the factory. It uses a hydraulic system with a belt-driven pump, fluid reservoir, and steering rack. Ram didn't switch to EPS on the 1500 until the 2019 model year. But if you're converting your Ram to electric or just want to ditch the hydraulic pump, there's a straightforward retrofit.
Table of Contents
Toggle2015 Ram Steering: Hydraulic vs EPS
| Factory Hydraulic (2015 Ram) | CMVTE EHPS Retrofit | |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Belt-driven pump (engine) | Electric motor + pump (12V or 48V) |
| Fluid | ATF+4 power steering fluid | Same fluid, same rack |
| Engine load | Always on, parasitic loss ~3-5 hp | Zero when not steering |
| Maintenance | Fluid changes, hose leaks, pump wear | Minimal (electric pump) |
| Works with EV conversion | No (no engine to drive pump) | Yes |
Why the 2015 Ram Uses Hydraulic
- Towing: Hydraulic provides consistent assist under heavy load, important for a 4,800 kg GCWR truck
- Durability: Proven design, easy to repair anywhere, parts at every auto parts store
- Feel: Truck owners prefer the mechanical feedback over early EPS systems that felt too light
But for EV conversions, engine swaps, or anyone wanting to clean up the engine bay, the belt-driven pump is a problem. The solution is a CMVTE EHPS (Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering) unit.
CMVTE EHPS Retrofit for Ram 1500
CMVTE's EHPS replaces the belt-driven pump with a compact electric motor + pump assembly. It bolts to the frame rail and connects to your existing hydraulic rack with standard hoses.
| Model | Voltage | Flow Rate | Pressure | Suitable For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CMVTE EHPS-12V | 12V DC | 6 L/min | 100 bar | Ram 1500, light trucks | $650-$850 |
| CMVTE EHPS-48V | 48V DC | 8 L/min | 120 bar | Ram 2500, heavy duty | $850-$1,100 |
Installation: Mount the EHPS unit to the frame rail near the original pump location, connect the steering rack hoses, wire to 12V or 48V power, and install the included pressure switch (pump only runs when steering is turning). No belt, no engine load, no fluid in the engine bay.
How to Confirm Your Ram's Steering Type
- Look under the hood: If you see a fluid reservoir with a belt-driven pump on the passenger side of the 5.7L, it's hydraulic
- Check the rack: Hydraulic racks have two hard fluid lines; EPS racks have an electric motor on the column or rack
- VIN check: A dealer or online VIN decoder can verify factory steering specs
Why Retrofit to EHPS?
- You're doing an EV conversion (no engine to drive the pump)
- You want to free up 3-5 hp from the belt drive
- You're cleaning up the engine bay for a show build
- You want power steering to work with the engine off (off-road, idling, camping)
Browse CMVTE EPS/EHPS systems →
Get an EHPS Kit for Your Ram
Tell us your Ram model year and cab configuration. We'll send the correct EHPS unit, mounting bracket template, and wiring diagram — with a firm price and shipping cost.
WhatsApp / Phone: +86 181 2358 8272
Email: [email protected]
Mention "Ram EHPS" for a bracket-specific recommendation.
