Ram
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It has been a rough start for the 2019 Ram 1500 production line. FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne said on an earnings call last week that the Sterling Heights Assembly plant, home to the 2019 model is only operating at 60 percent of where the company wants it to be. Automotive News learned from sources at the FCA and suppliers that the plant was building around 1,000 trucks per day last week. "That's not where we need to be. We allowed enough time in 2017 to get that installation up, but it's proven to be challenging," said Marchionne. Why the low production rate? A union source explained there are a few reasons. One is that suppliers are having a difficult time with p…
Last reply by ccap41, -
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In a couple of weeks, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles will roll out the 2019 Ram 1500 at the Detroit Auto Show. Before this, a fresh stack of spy photos have made their way online revealing the front end. The biggest change is Ram dropping the oversize, rectangular grille that has been a key part of their trucks for a number of years. In its place is a hexagonal grille with a narrow bar and 'RAM' name. We're thinking this could be one of a range of different grille inserts for the truck. There are square headlights featuring some sort of LED lighting. The rest of the front looks to be an evolution of the current model. From a previous report, we're possibly expectin…
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A few years ago, reports popped up about a patent filed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. It was a tailgate that could be folded down or split open into two swing-out halves. That patent has now become reality as a new set of spy photos reveals a next-generation Ram 1500 sporting one. Compared to the original patent filing which showed a 50/50 split, the one shown in the spy photos appears to be a 70/30 split. We're assuming this to allow Ram to use the same handle mechanism on this and a standard tailgate. The one item the spy photos don't tell us is how you open the split tailgate. There might be handle on the top of the tailgate, but we're speculating here. There…
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After nearly a year-long hiatus, 2017 Ram 1500s with the EcoDiesel option are beginning to show up on dealer lots. According to Automotive News, some dealers started seeing EcoDiesel models arriving towards the end of last month. Other dealers are still waiting for the EcoDiesel models to show up. Back in January, the EPA accused Fiat Chrysler Automobiles of violating emission regulations by failing to disclose eight different software programs used in the EcoDiesel. The agency alleged the software allowed Ram 1500s and Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesels to produce excess pollution. Then in May, the Justice Department filed a civil suit against FCA over the software. …
Last reply by David, -
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The current Ram 1500 has been with us since 2009 and it is clear that it needs a major overhaul in light of the updated Ford F-150 and upcoming redesigns of GM's half-tons. We now have gotten our first look at the next-generation model - codenamed DT. Ram has gotten this mule fully covered up, but we can make out some key details. It looks like Ram is going evolutionary in terms of the 1500's design with the blunt shape and crosshair grille. The mule seen here is the Mega Cab variant with its larger rear doors. The spy shots given to Car and Driver also give us a good idea of what changes are taking place inside. It appears that Ram is getting the newest version…
Last reply by David, -
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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles announced today that it would be recalling a million Ram Trucks for a computer glitch that could prevent the airbags and seat-belt tensioners from engaging in the event of a crash. The issue comes from the software used in a module that controls the deployment of restraint systems in rollover situations. Underbody impacts could cause the module to think a sensor has failed and will disable the side airbags and seat-belt tensioners for that ignition cycle. This means in the event of a rollover, the key safety systems will not go into action. The good news is that if you turn the truck off and then on, the system should revert back to normal. Y…
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At least for now, fuel economy regulations in the United States only look to get more stringent in the future, and automakers are coming up surprising methods to meet the upcoming standards. For example, check out these shots of this Ram 1500 while under development. That’s not a V8 or even a V6 under the hood. According to our spies, it’s a four-cylinder... The grainy images make clearly seeing the engine difficult, but the mill is definitely not something you’d usually see in a pickup Read More
Last reply by FordCosworth, -
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2018 was going to be the year that Ram Trucks would introduce redesigned versions of their light and heavy-duty trucks using a new platform known as DT. But it seems the light-duty truck will be the only one riding on this new platform as the redesign for heavy-duty model has been pushed back. Sources tell Automotive News that Ram will be refreshing the current heavy-duty truck for 2018. It is unknown when Ram will actually introduce the redesigned version using the new platform. Why is Ram switching to a refresh of the current heavy-duty truck? It comes down to money. At the moment, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has nearly $7 billion in net debt at the end of thir…
Last reply by Stew, -
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December 1, 2016 — A Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel lawsuit has been filed in California alleging the EcoDiesel trucks and SUVs contain concealed emissions "defeat devices" to hide nitrogen oxide emissions levels 10 times above legal limits. The proposed class-action lawsuit targets about 150,000 model year 2014-2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel and 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel vehicles that allegedly cost $4,700 more than normal because of "clean" emissions technology. In addition to charges against Fiat Chrysler (FCA US), the EcoDiesel lawsuit claims parts manufacturer Bosch is in cahoots with Chrysler, in violation of the RICO (Racketeer Influenc…
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Ram Trucks is planning to build the current Ram 1500 well into 2019, even after it launches a redesigned model in 2018. Sources tell Automotive News the decision comes down to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles making a play for fleet customers by offering a lower-priced model in the form of the last-generation 1500. This move also allows dealers to have ample supplies of trucks - both old and new. "Going into 2018, having more pickup capacity will allow us also to satisfy the fleet customers' demand on pickup, which we struggle to do today because we favor retail in the U.S. and Canadian volume, which have higher margins," said FCA CFO Richard Palmer on a conference cal…
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It seems the Jeep Wagoneer wasn't the only vehicle that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles was previewing for their dealers. Another set of leaked photos have come out possibly revealing the design of the next Ram 1500. Much like the Wagoneer pictures we reported on yesterday, the Ram 1500 pictures come from a poster labeled "Ram Brand Lit Signatures". The front end appears to be a bolder version of the current model with a larger vertical bar and Ram logo. Headlights appear to be slimmer and there is an off-color skid plate. The tailgate appears to be taking some ideas from the Ford F-150 with a rugged and sculpted look. Taillights appear to be the same as the current model.…
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Previous Page Next Page Ram Trucks has decided that it had enough of the Ford Raptor. During the Texas State Fair, Ram unveiled the Rebel TRX Concept. The basis for the Rebel TRX is your standard Ram 1500 Rebel with everything turned up to max. Under the hood lies a supercharged 6.2L V8 (yes, the Hellcat V8) producing 575 horsepower. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic with special programming to go fast off-road. A BorgWarner 44-45 transfer case and Dynatrac Pro 60 axle in the rear with an electric locker makes sure all of that power gets to the wheels. The suspension features adjustable coil-over shocks with external…
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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is considering whether or not to do a large SUV. This model would take on the likes of the Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon and Ford Expedition. Large SUVs are also big money makers. According to analysts, GM makes $10,000 or more on their large SUVs. "While crossovers are all anyone wants to talk about, the money is still in pickups and SUVs. FCA needs to enter this segment. FCA is chasing profit-driving vehicles and they are missing out on a major one, just as Ford is getting ready to launch an all-aluminum Expedition," said Dave Sullivan, an automotive analyst for Auto Pacific to the Detroit Free Press. Mike Manley, head of Jeep and Ram brand…
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Sergio Marchionne isn't the only person who is interested in doing a midsize truck for Ram. Speaking with The Detroit News, Jeep and Ram Trucks' CEO Mike Manley says he sees an opportunity. “I think there’s opportunity there in the U.S. if you look at what’s happened in the mid-size segment here – significant growth last year. I think that space is big enough, certainly, to have two offerings there,” said Manley. One of the two offerings is the upcoming Jeep Wrangler pickup due next year. Manley said he doesn't believe there will be overlap in terms of buyers who want the Jeep or a possible Ram truck. Manley admitted that Ram could use a Fiat platform for a ne…
Last reply by ccap41, -
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With the midsize truck market on the rebound, FCA is considering whether or not to do a midsize for Ram. “We’re looking into it. I have a keen interest in getting it done. The big question is whether it should be body on frame,” said Marchionne to reporters at the Geneva Motor Show. Previously, Ram was considering doing a midsize truck on a unibody platform. But this idea was tossed out due to problems with getting decent fuel economy and pricing the model at an affordable point while still making a profit. Marchionne says the biggest hurdle for a Ram midsize truck is trying to make a business case for it. When Marchionne looks at GM's midsize trucks - Chevrol…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Ram is putting serious thought into building a full-size SUV to take on the likes the Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon XL. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO Sergio Marchionne expressed his interest during a call announcing the third-quarter financial results. The large SUV segment is “the near-exclusive use of some others. We have a reasonable chance of getting at least part of that market,” said Marchionne. Marchionne explained that Ram begins to redesign its pickup lineup and add production, space for such a vehicle begins to open up. “I think we have a unique opportunity with renewal of the pickup line, with the powertrains we selected, to…
Last reply by David, -
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If you thought the heavy-duty wars were done and over with, you thought wrong. Ram announced today that the 3500 Heavy Duty - a model with best-in-class tow ratings of 30,000 lbs when equipped with the 6.7L inline-six Cummins diesel engine - has upped the ante once again. The inline-six for the 2016 model year will now produce 385 horsepower and 900 pound-feet of torque. That's an increase of 35 pound-feet when compared to last-year's model. The increase in power also means increase in tow ratings - 31,210 pounds according to the SAE's J2807 certification process. To deal with the increase in tow weight, Ram beefed up the rear axle ring gear hardware from 12 to 16 bol…
Last reply by hyperv6, -
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Ram announced pricing for two new members of the Ram 1500 today. First off is the Ram 1500 Rebel. Positioned as the brand's off-road special with off-road tires, a front skid plate, tow hooks, and blacked out bumper. The base 2WD Rebel starts at $43,985 - includes a $1,195 destination charge. The base model boasts the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. Those who 4WD with their Rebel will need to fork over $45,915 for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 or $47,565 for the V8. Next is the Laramie Limited which boasts a number of luxury appointments such as 20-inch forged multi-surface aluminum wheels and a handsome interior. Prices start at $51,870 for the base 2WD, HEMI V8 model. If you want …
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You would think that with the introduction of the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Terrain and refreshed Toyota Tacoma, the likes of Ford and Ram would be getting in the midsize truck action. But Ram boss Bob Hegbloom can't make it work for the brand. The problem according to Automotive News is the price of higher fuel economy. Hegbloom explained that back in the heyday of midsize trucks - the 1980's - consumers bought them because they were considerably smaller, less expensive, and boasted impressive fuel economy. Although midsize trucks had less capability than their full-size compatriots, consumers didn't mind. "When you look at those four factors, that's truly what a midsize …
Last reply by Stew, -
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The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel has been widely lauded by the press for its impressive fuel economy. It has also become a big hit for the company. However, a number of owners are feeling a bit ill when driving their EcoDiesels. Detroit ABC news station WXYZ reported back in December that a number of Ram 1500 EcoDiesel owners are reporting feeling sick with a exhaust smell coming into the cabin. That smell happens to be diesel exhaust which causes headaches, lightheadedness, and dizzy-ness. Ram owner forums started reporting this issue in September and October, with a number of trucks being investigated by Chrysler and then being fixed with new exhaust coupling. At the time Chrysl…
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Syracuse Utah found itself in the news today about a auto chase through Founders Park. A 14yr old took his grandfathers Hyundai Veloster out for a joyride. Bryson Rowley, concerned for his and others children's safety used his Diesel Ram to keep the Juvenal from causing anymore harm by ramming head on into the car. luckily no one was hurt by the fast driven auto nor in the head on collision that took place. The following video was posted online for people to see of the chase and hit. You can watch the police raw footage and extended video coverage at Fox's web site. This informatio…
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Even though the Ram ProMaster City is hitting dealerships right now, there is already talk of expanding the lineup. Edmunds spoke with Joe Benson, head of Ram's commercial truck operations who hinted that more variations of the ProMaster City could be forthcoming if the demand is there. "When we learn more about our customer needs here, then we can go to that portfolio and bring in what we need, which includes the diesel engine, a short wheelbase, maybe a seven-passenger version. We have that flexibility in the future," said Benson. Other models up for consideration include a high-roof variant and a pickup variant with drop-down sides to access the cargo bed. Benson p…
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Filed under: Truck, Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler, Dodge 2008 Dodge Dakota - Click above for high-res image gallery Chrysler is dropping more hints about an upcoming unibody pickup that would be positioned below the Dodge Dakota. You may recall that first word of the new small truck came back in November when Fred Diaz, CEO of Chrysler's newly-created Ram brand, dropped tidbits about the company "considering" a Dakota replacement. We speculated that it could be built on a platform derived from the upcoming Jeep Grand Cherokee/Dodge Durango architecture. Interviewed at the National Truck Equipment Association's Work Truck Show in St. Louis this month, Joe Veltri, Chr…
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The burgeoning compact cargo van marketplace will soon have a new entrant. In a few weeks, Ram dealers will be getting the 2015 Ram ProMaster City and the truck manufacturer has revealed pricing for it. The ProMaster City will start at $24,125 (includes a $995 destination charge) for the base cargo van version, and $25,125 for the ProMaster City Wagon. There is an up-level SLT model for both versions which adds $1,525 to the price. The Ram ProMaster City comes with the 2.4L Tigershark inline-four with 178 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and is paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy numbers for the ProMaster City are 21 City/29 Highway/24 Com…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Ram announced today that it plans to increase production of the EcoDiesel from 10 to 20 percent of the Ram 1500's total volume mix. “Innovation sometimes comes with risk, but being first to market with a diesel engine for the half-ton segment has shown to be a great decision for the Ram Brand. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is a game-changer in the industry, and has proved to be a key to conquest sales over our competitors,” said Bob Hegbloom, President and CEO of Ram Trucks. The EcoDiesel option has proved to be a massive success for Ram. The option has helped sales of Ram trucks climb 21 percent to 283,256 units through the month of August. The diesel option has also increase…
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