Ram pickup
The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year. Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The name "Ram" was first used in 1981 model year Dodge Trucks in October 1980, following the retiring and rebadging of the Dodge D series pickup  trucks as well as B-series vans, though the company had used a ram's-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933. Ram trucks have been named "Motor Trend" magazine's Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to three-peat the award, winning in 2019 , 2020, and 2021. First generation (1981; D/W). The first-generation Ram trucks and vans introduced in October 1980 feature a Ram hood ornament first used on Dodge vehicles from 1932 to 1954. Not all of the first-generation trucks have this ornament and is most commonly seen on four-wheel-drive models. Dodge kept the previous generation's model designations: "D" or "Ram" indicate two-wheel drive while "W" or "Power Ram" indicate four-wheel drive. Just like Ford, Dodge used 150 to indicate a half-ton truck, 250 for a three-quarter-ton truck, and 350 for a  one-ton truck. The truck models were offered in standard cab, "club" extended cab, and crew cab configurations. They also were offered along with and bed lengths and "Utiline" and "Sweptline" styled boxes along with standard boxes. Externally, the first-generation Rams were facelifted versions of the previous generation Dodge D-Series pickups introduced in 1972. The new model introduced larger wraparound tail lamps, dual rectangular headlamps, and squared-off body lines. Engine choices were pared down to the 225 slant-6 and 318 and 360 V8s. The interior was updated and included a new bench seat and a completely new  dashboard and an instrument cluster with an optional three-pod design - a speedometer in the center, with the two side pods containing an ammeter on the top left, a temperature gauge bottom left, a fuel gauge on the top right and an oil pressure gauge bottom right. Models without the full gauge package had only indicator lights in the place of the temperature and oil pressure gauges. Among the options offered on the Ram were front bumper guards, a sliding rear cab window, air-conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering column, power door locks and windows, AM/FM stereo with a  cassette tape player, styled road wheels, aluminum turbine-style mag wheels, special paint and stripe packages, two-tone paint, and a plow package for four-wheel-drive models (referred to as the "Sno Commander"). The "Club Cab" was dropped from the lineup after 1982, but Dodge kept the tooling and re-introduced it nearly a decade later in the 1990 models. The four-door crew cab and Utiline beds were dropped after the 1985 model year, to make room on the assembly line for the upcoming 1987 Dodge Dakota, and were never reintroduced in this generation. Basic Ram 100 models  were reintroduced for 1984, replacing the previous "Miser" trim level available on the Ram 150. A "Ram-Trac" shift-on-the-fly transfer case was added for the 1985 Power Rams, and both the crew cab and Utiline flared bed were dropped for 1986, the latter never to return on any Chrysler-built pickup. In 1988 the slant-6 engine was replaced by a fuel-injected V6 engine. The engine also received electronic fuel injection in 1988. Because of the new computer-controlled fuel injection, ignition, and ABS system, more vehicle information needed to be displayed through any warning or notification  lights; so inside the cab where a small compartment was once located on the dash, a new "message center" with four small rectangular light spots, contained the check engine light and other tell-tales including one for the parking brake and the ABS if the truck was so equipped. The message center later included "wait to start" and "water in fuel" lights on diesel models. Diagnostic fault codes were stored in the computer's memory, and cycling the ignition key three times allowed the computer to flash the trouble codes through the check-engine light for diagnosis of some problems . Rear ABS became standard equipment in 1989. The Ram 100 model designation was dropped and these models folded back into the 150 range for 1990, due to the introduction and sales success of the Dodge Dakota pickup. Additionally, the instrument cluster was slightly revised; the ammeter was replaced by a voltmeter while maintaining the 3-pod arrangement of the speedometer and gauges. Also in 1990, Dodge reintroduced the Club Cab, equipped with fold-out jump seats for the 1991-1993 models. Entry was made through the passenger or driver's doors because there were no rear doors for this configuration . For 1991 the Club Cab returned, and all versions received standard anti-lock brakes on the rear wheels only. These trucks, though popular with fleets, sold poorly compared to the Ford F-Series and the General Motors C/K trucks, with just under 100,000 units sold most years of their production. Part of this was due to the dated cab and chassis design which had been in production since 1972, there was no powerful diesel option until 1989, and there was no big-block gas V8 option. Additionally, the interior had been given few updates since October 1980 market launch . Engines and transmissions. For 1989, the 5.9 L V8 received throttle-body fuel injection for a 20 hp (15 kW) gain. Additionally, Dodge introduced a new overdrive automatic transmission for reduced fuel consumption. This light-duty transmission was designated the A500, and was offered with the 3.9 L V6 and 5.2 L V8. An "O/D off" pushbutton switch to lock out the overdrive 4th gear was added to the message center. The A727 automatic saw continued use for some 5.2 L engines, all 5.9 L engines, and heavy-duty applications. The grille was redesigned for 1991 but kept the  large rectangular headlamps and crossbar appearance. The engines were substantially upgraded for 1992 (3.9 L and 5.2 L) 1993 and 1994 (5.9 L) with multi-port fuel injection, new manifolds, and higher-compression cylinder heads for noticeably higher output. These newly-revised engines were marketed under the "Magnum" name. A heavy-duty automatic transmission with overdrive called the A518 was offered with the 5.2 L and 5.9 L engines. As part of Chrysler's overhaul of corporate transmission nomenclature, the A500 and A518 were redesignated 42RH and 46RH, respectively, in 1992. The initial "4" signified a 4-speed transmission, the  second digit identified the transmission's relative torque capacity, the letter "R" in the third position denoted a rear-wheel-drive transmission, and the final letter "H" signified hydraulic shift control. The 3-speed automatic remained available; the A727 was redesignated 36RH, and the A904, A998, and A999 became the 30RH, 31RH, and 32RH, respectively. 5.9 Cummins. A Cummins B Series engine was also added to the engine lineup in 1989. For the first time, Dodge saw sales increase. The Cummins was coupled with a heavier-duty version of the A727 automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission and is  available on 250 and 350 pickups and pickup-based chassis-cab trucks. This diesel engine option was different from the optional types of diesel engines in Ford and GM trucks. The Cummins features direct injection, whereas the Ford and GM diesels feature indirect injection; this also means that the Cummins does not have to rely on glowplugs. The Cummins is a straight-six engine, whereas the GM and Ford diesel engines are V8 engines. Additionally, the Cummins is turbocharged, while the 6.2 L GM/DDC and 7.3 IDI Ford/IH are naturally aspirated. This was not the first engine to  appear in Dodge pickup trucks as a diesel option. The 1978 and 1979 D-Series models were available with a Mitsubishi naturally-aspirated diesel, but it was seldom ordered. The Cummins diesel was in short supply the first two years, but for 1991 Dodge managed to ramp up production. Partway through the 1991 model year, Dodge started using 350 (one-ton) frames in Ram 250 Cummins and Club Cab models. Second generation (1994; BR/BE). The second-generation Ram began development in 1986. The original concept, dubbed the "Louisville Slugger" by Chrysler's Advanced Packaging Studio, was to be a  modular platform that would accommodate a full-size truck and full-size van, which would have provided a roomy cab and cargo bed. The modular design was scrapped in 1987 and was replaced with a more conventional truck design when the design was moved to the AMC design studio. The more conventional design, dubbed "Phoenix", was originally scheduled for a 1991 production; when Bob Lutz showed it to the new styling designers, chief designer Phillip E. Payne told him, "It looks like nothing more than a rehash of everybody else's truck." At that, Lutz told him he had six  months to come up with something better. The exterior styling of the truck that was eventually released was the result of design concepts by Payne during 1988-1990. A review by the Dodge pick-up truck studio designers felt that modern pick-ups looked "too flat and sedan-like", while the early 1950s Studebaker pick-up and the semi-trailer trucks had just the right "macho" look to them. The design featured a big-rig-looking front end and a large grille that was deemed risky at its introduction, but ultimately proved popular with consumers. Debuted on January 5, 1993 , at the North American International Auto Show and going on sale on October 1, 1993, the redesigned 1994 Ram was a sales success and was named "Truck of the Year" by "Motor Trend" in 1994. Sales increased from 95,542 units in 1993 to 232,092 in 1994, 410,000 in 1995, and 411,000 by 1996. That year, it was prominently featured as the hero vehicle in the film "Twister". Sales of this generation peaked at just over 400,000 in 1999 before declining against the redesigned Ford and GM trucks. By 2001, Ram sales figures were below those of Ford and Chevy trucks . Engine offerings continued over from the first-generation Ram and were the 3.9 L V6, 5.2 L V8, 5.9 L V8, and 5.9 L I6 Cummins turbo diesel. Added to the lineup was a new 8.0 L V10 engine designed as an alternative for those who wanted superior pulling power but did not want a diesel. The new V10 and Cummins turbodiesel could only be had in the 2500 and higher designation models. Models were now the 1500 half-ton, 2500 three-quarter-ton, and 3500 dual-rear-wheel one-ton in both 2- and 4-wheel drive. Ram 1500s  offered both short and long cargo beds on both regular and extended Club Cabs, Ram 2500s offered only long bed with regular cabs or a choice of beds on extended cabs, and Ram 3500s only offered long beds on both cabs. Dodge offered the 2500 series in two different gross-vehicle-weight ratings for the first few years, but this was later dropped. The purpose of the difference between the light-duty and heavy-duty 2500 trucks was for the heavy-duty 2500 to take the place of the discontinued one-ton single-rear-wheel trucks. Rear axles for the  light-duty 2500 trucks were semi-floating, while the heavy-duty 2500 rear axles were full-floating. Light-duty 2500 trucks were not available with the diesel or V10 engines. On the inside, special attention was paid to in-cab storage features, with a large glovebox, a center armrest storage area, and extra storage space behind the seat. 1998 updates. In 1998, Dodge introduced the 4-door Quad Cab, which used smaller clamshell doors directly behind the main doors. This was the first extended cab pickup to have four doors. (The 2-door Club Cab remained available through 2002.) Other  changes for 1998 included new rounded black plastic sideview mirrors, new plastic fold-out towing mirrors, a revised interior, dual airbags, a chime replacing the buzzer for seat belts/door ajar/headlights, and a digital odometer. The OBD-II system was also standard, with a computer port near the driver's-side footwell and a code-checking system via the new digital odometer readout. In late 1998, Dodge introduced a revised front end for the 1999 model year Sport models with a restyled bumper, quad-beam clear-lens headlamps, and body-color grille. A 6-speed manual transmission was made optional  for diesel models in late 2000 for the 2001 model year. A small percentage of the diesel engines for the 1999 and 2000 model years were subject to problems within the water jackets and fuel injectors. The most problematic was the "53" stamped engine block which had a defect that would cause fracturing in the structure of the block itself. The 2000 models offered the option of heated leather seats. The braking system was upgraded to dual-piston calipers in the front. An Offroad Edition was offered as a package with a 2-inch lift, accomplished with stiffer front springs  and rear lift blocks, unique 17x8 wheels, 275/70/17 all-terrain tires, 4.10 rear axle, trussed Dana 44 front axle, limited-slip differential, and skid plates. The Offroad Edition models are also distinguishable with an additional "Offroad" decal on the tailgate under the 4x4 decal. The 2000 model was cut short, ending production in January 2000 to avoid a CAFE requirement. After that, 2001 models began production. Although Dodge introduced a new Ram 1500 for 2002, the old second-generation style Ram was carried over for the 2002 model year heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 trucks. The new third-generation Ram  would not appear in the 2500/3500 variants until 2003. Part of this delay was due to the then-new 5.7 L Hemi engine not being ready for production. Mexico. Unencumbered by CAFE (Corporate average fuel economy) restrictions, DaimlerChrysler's Mexican subsidiary developed a three-door wagon version of the Ram, called the Ram Charger as was its predecessor. It first appeared in 1998, but was never available in the United States. Drivetrain. Transmissions. Ram transmissions are labeled such that the first number indicates the number of gears (including overdrive), the second number is the capacity rating, and the last letter  is either E for electronic or H for hydraulic. NV3500 was offered in 1500 Rams and light-duty 2500 Rams. NV4500 was standard in 2500 and 3500 trucks; the NV4500HD for V10 and diesel models. An NV5600 was offered in 1999 and 2000 Rams and was the only transmission offered behind the High Output diesel in 2001 and 2002. Transfer cases. There were a total of five transfer cases available for the four-wheel-drive Ram. All are part-time and have a low range of 2.72:1. The 1500 featured an NP231 and NP231HD. The NP241 was standard on V8  2500 Rams. The 2500 and 3500 V10 and diesel featured an NP241DLD from 1993 to 1997. In 1997 the NP241DHD became an option for 2500 Rams and was standard on 3500 Rams from 1998 to 2002. Axles. The Dodge Ram features a wide variety of axles. For the front axle of 4x4 Rams, a Dana 44 was used on all 1500 Rams and the early (light-duty) 2500 Rams. However, most of the 2500 and all 3500 Rams use Dana 60 front axles. The 1500 Rams and some early light duty 2500 Rams used a 9.25 Chrysler (Spicer) axle in  the rear. A Dana 60 rear axle was used on heavy-duty 2500 V8 Rams. A Dana 70 rear axle was used in 2500 Rams with a V10 or a Diesel/Automatic transmission combination. A Dana 80 rear axle was used on 2500 Rams with a manual transmission and V10/diesel engine combination. Every 3500 Ram was made with a Dana 80. The front-drive axles in these Rams were unique in the fact they did not have locking hubs, but featured a center axle disconnect. The 2002 2500 and 3500 Rams saw the eventual phase-out of the Center  axle disconnect, in favor of front axles that were permanently locked in. Dodge continued to include front axles like this for their 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks until 2013 models. Engines. A natural-gas-powered engine debuted for 1995, but was not popular and was only used in fleet vehicles on a very limited production run. The Cummins B Series engine was switched from the 12-valve to the 24-valve (ISB) version in the middle of the 1998 model-year Dodge Rams due to emissions regulations. The ISB featured a new computer-controlled electronic injection pump and a  24-valve head design. Third generation (2002; DR/DH/D1/DC/DM). In development from 1996 (styling by Cliff Wilkins finalized in 1998), the third-generation Ram was unveiled on February 7, 2001 at the 2001 Chicago Auto Show, and debuted for 2002 model year on 1500 models and 2003 on 2500 and 3500 models. This was a major update including an all-new frame, suspension, powertrains, interiors, and sheet metal. The crew cab models for this generation were actually Quad Cab trucks that had conventional-opening rear doors. The four-wheel-drive light trucks (1500 series) lost their live  axles in favor of an independent front suspension, but the 2500 and 3500 series retained the live axles for maximum longevity and durability; rear-wheel-drive 2500 & 3500 had class-exclusive rack and pinion steering for their independent front suspension (the 1500 also received rack and pinion steering for the first time). This body style drew heavily from the previous generation. The redesigned trucks bolstered sales, with 400,000 sold during 2001–2002 and nearly 450,000 sold during 2002–2003, a new high point for the Ram name. At the same time, both Ford and GM trucks were increasing in sales from a  2001 peak of over 850,000 to the 900,000 range. However, with 400,543 Rams sold that year, the Ram's sales did not keep up with the eleventh-generation F-150 in 2004. 2006 Facelift. The Dodge Ram was updated for the 2006 model year. One notable addition was the "Mega Cab", featuring a cargo box and of extra cab space, allowing seating for six with rear recliners, a full screen mapping in-dash navigation system became an option, and the headlamps were redesigned to a more modern design. For 2006, the steering wheel design was changed to one from the Dodge  Dakota and Dodge Durango. Bluetooth U Connect was now available as an option, and a front facelift was given to all Ram models. SIRIUS Satellite Radio was available, as well as a rear seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones. The SRT model, with the 8.3 L V10 engine from the Dodge Viper SRT/10, was discontinued after the 2006 model year. For 2007, Dodge changed the taillights. Chassis Cab. In 2007, a 3500 Chassis Cab model was introduced with industry-standard rear frame width and wiring to accommodate outfitters. In addition to the , a Cummins diesel rated at and was  also available. Automatic transmissions used were the 545RFE with the and the AS68RC with the . The G56 transmission was the only manual transmission offered. For 2008, Dodge introduced two more Chassis Cab models, the 4500 and 5500. These were Class-4 and Class-5 trucks with a gross weight of and , respectively. Both trucks came equipped with the same version of the Cummins diesel as the 3500 chassis-cab model. Sterling, who worked with Dodge in development, had their own version, called the Sterling Bullet with a unique grille. Sterling is a division of Freightliner Trucks which, like Dodge, was owned by  the former DaimlerChrysler. Sterling Trucks was licensed to sell Dodge Ram 4500 series trucks as the Sterling Bullet. When the Sterling brand was phased out by Chrysler Corporation, the Bullet was discontinued. Engines. Models built after January 1, 2007 offered a new 6.7 L Cummins turbo diesel introduced as an option in 2500/3500 models replacing the 5.9 L. It produced and . Unlike the 5.9 L which was backed by the 4-speed 48RE Transmission, the 6.7 L was equipped with the new 6-speed 68RFE transmission. 2005 was the last year for the first version of the Hemi V8. 2006  half-ton models offered the Multi-Displacement System Hemi V8 engine that also became available in Chrysler and Dodge sedans. This engine featured the same performance but had a cylinder-deactivating feature enabled under light loads to increase fuel economy by 3 MPG city and 4 MPG hwy. This new Hemi still delivered and . Axles. For the 2003 model year, AAM axles replaced the Dana Corp axles. In the front, all 2500 and 3500 trucks were 9.25-inch with 33 spline axles. The rear options for the 2500 and 3500 were the AAM (often referred to as "corporate") 10.5" and  11.5". Rear-axle shafts are 30 spline. The rear 11.5" has a gear ratio "carrier split" at 3.73 and numerically higher, but the General Motors AAM axles used a different carrier spacing preventing the installation of a Chrysler carrier into some GM axles, but the GM carrier can be installed in the Chrysler axle if a ring gear spacer is installed. Strength is similar to their earlier Dana 70 and 80 counterparts. Direct comparisons are difficult as the axles are made with completely different metallurgy. Fourth generation (2009; DS/DJ/D2). The fourth generation Dodge Ram was introduced at the  2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This latest generation was sold as the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 starting in Fall 2008. The 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 models were later added to the lineup. In 2010, the Ram Trucks brand was separated from Dodge. Chrysler LLC attempted to keep the Ram competitive in the market through various developments for the 2009 model, including a new four-door cab style offering, new suspension, a new hemi engine option, and the Rambox, a new storage system that allows secure storage inside the truck's bed walls. Later models have the  Rambox system tied in with the remote keyless system. Since 2011, Ram 2500/3500 models were marketed as having a "class-exclusive" manual transmission option, as General Motors and Ford discontinued manual transmissions for North American models in 2006 and 2010 respectively. The manual transmission was available until the end of this generation's production in 2018. The Ram 1500, Ram Mega Cab, Ram 2500/3500, DX Chassis Cab (Mexico Market), Ram 4500/5500 are assembled at FCA's Saltillo Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico; the Ram 1500 (DT) is assembled at Sterling Heights Assembly (SHAP) in Sterling Heights, Michigan. The Ram 1500  (DS) was previously assembled at Warren Truck Assembly in Warren, Michigan. Cab options. The Mega Cab option was deleted on the 1500 model, replaced by a true four-door crew cab. Other cab options are regular cab and Quad Cab. The Mega Cab option remains on the heavy-duty models, along with crew cab. Improvements made from the previous generation mean the rear seats are now able to recline. Handling. A coil spring five-link rear suspension replaces the leaf-springs for the 1500. Payload capacities. The 2009 model's towing capacity was originally rated at for 2WD Ram 1500  with regular cab, long-bed, 5.7 L Hemi engine, 3.92 differential and 17-inch wheels, but the rating increased to without changing the setup. For the 2010 model, payload was increased by to for the regular cab 2WD model with the 3.7-liter V6 engine. Towing capacity for the regular cab Ram 1500 with 3.21 differential is rated at with 17-inch wheels and with 19-inch wheels. Crew Cab and Quad Cab models are rated at and respectively. Gross Combined Weight Ratings is for all Ram 1500s with 3.21 axles; max for 2WD Ram 1500 with long bed, 5.7  L hemi engine, and a 3.92 differential. Chassis Cab versions were made for the Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 models. The 3500 Heavy Duty model was unveiled at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. Engine choices include 5.7 L Hemi V8 rated at at 5,600 rpm and at 4,000 rpm for Ram 3500, 6.7 L Cummins turbo diesel rated at at 3,013 rpm and at 1,500 rpm for Ram 3500 (optional), 4500, 5500. Late-model 2011 diesel trucks were up-rated to of torque. Transmission choices included a standard 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed Aisin automatic. Both transmissions support  the Power Takeoff option. The 3500 model has regular or crew cab, single-rear-wheel or dual-rear-wheel. Four cab-axle lengths (60, 84, 108 and 120 inches) for 4500/5500 or two cab-axle lengths (60 and 84 inches) for 3500, and three trim levels (ST, SLT and Laramie). The Ram 3500 has three axle ratios (3.42, 3.73, and 4.10) and 17-inch wheels. Ram 4500/5500 has three axle ratios (4.10, 4.44, and 4.88) and 19.5-inch wheels. The 4500/5500 Rams rear axle is a Dana S 110. The front axle on 4x4 models is manufactured by Magna, while  2-wheel-drive models just have a solid, non-drive axle. Concept truck. The Ram concept truck "Long Hauler" from 2012 is based mostly on existing Ram truck parts. The powertrain, frame and wheels are all components of the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab. It is a "Mega Cab" optional on the lighter Rams. The GCWR for this truck is 37,500 lb and the weight of the truck is 9,300 lb. Model year changes. 2013 changes. The 1500 gets a minor restyling. It features a new front fascia, optional projector-beam halogen headlamps with LED turn signals/parking lamps, wheels and  interior, where the "DODGE" name was removed from the dashboard and replaced with "RAM". All models offered for 2012 continue to be available for 2013 with the addition of a new high-end trim, the Laramie Longhorn Limited. (Tradesman, Express, SLT, Big Horn, Lone Star, Sport, R/T, Laramie, and Laramie Longhorn). The Rambox cargo management system continues to be available on most models for 2013. For 2013, the base ST model becomes the Tradesman model. 2013 models have revised engine and transmission options. The 3.7 L V6 is discontinued, and the 4.7 L V8 equipped with the 6-speed  65RFE Automatic takes its place as the new base engine, still producing and . New to the lineup is Chrysler's corporate 3.6 L Pentastar V6, coupled to the new ZF 8-speed Torqueflite8 Automatic. It achieves best-in-class fuel efficiency and makes and . The Pentastar/ZF 8-speed is optional. Due to a new electric power steering system, the 5.7 L Hemi V8 no longer has a power steering pump, and gains 5 horsepower, now making and . It is still available with the 65RFE 6-speed Automatic, with the new 8-speed Torqueflite8 Automatic optional. Air suspension is optional  for 2013 models, offering four ride height settings. Electronic stability control becomes standard on 2500 and 3500 models. For 2013, the Ram is also the first North American pickup truck to offer keyless ignition. New infotainment systems are available for the RAM 1500 for 2013: The base Uconnect 3.0 (RA1) radio includes an AM/FM radio, Radio Data System (RDS), a monochrome LCD display screen, a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary audio input jack, and a single USB port for charging purposes only. The "up-level" Uconnect 5.0BT (RA2) radio adds a full-color, 5.0-inch color touch-screen display, voice control  for the phone, a micro SD card slot, Bluetooth for phone, and A2DP wireless stereo audio streaming capabilities, and vehicle customization options on-screen. The "top-of-the-line" radios are the Uconnect ACCESS 8.4A (RA3) and Uconnect ACCESS 8.4AN (RA4). These radios add a full-color, 8.4-inch color touch-screen display, full voice control, SiriusXM satellite radio, the Uconnect ACCESS System, featuring roadside assistance and 9-1-1 emergency call buttons on the rear-view mirror, mobile app compatibility, remote USB ports for the integration of compatible devices, enhanced in-vehicle customization options, automatic notification of airbag deployment , concierge services, remote control via an app installed on a compatible smartphone, and the ability to add GPS navigation from Garmin for vehicles not equipped with the option from the factory (it is activated by a dealership for a fee, however, does not include SiriusXM Travel Link or 3D mapping). The Uconnect ACCESS 8.4AN (RA4) adds GPS navigation from Garmin, HD Radio SiriusXM Travel Link, 3D mapping, and enhanced mobile app compatibility. The system also includes a built-in 3G internet router, allowing for wireless connection to the internet while the vehicle is parked with a monthly service subscription . The system can also be updated to add additional features that will be available in the future via a USB stick inserted into one of the remote USB ports. Remote steering wheel-mounted controls are also included with this system. Options such as a CD Player (mounted in the center console of the vehicle), SiriusXM satellite radio and a Rearview Backup Camera can be added to any radio. 3500. The 2013 models move up to an 18-inch standard wheel, with 18-inch forged Alcoa wheels as an option. 3500 models offer a High Output package for the diesel. The  rear differential ring gear is increased from 11.5-inches, to 11.8-inches on H.O. trucks. The 11.8 axle cover doubles as a heat sink. 4x4. Ram installed the Center axle disconnect into the 3500 4x4 models. 2500 Ram trucks did not have a CAD system until 2014 models. Ram states this technology improves fuel efficiency by 1 MPG, although EPA tests do not include class 2 and class 3 trucks in the MPG/fuel efficiency tests. The 4x4 saw additional changes with the transfer case now being made by BorgWarner instead of New Venture Gear. High Fuel Efficiency. A new  model offered for the 2013 Ram is the HFE (High Fuel Efficiency). Based on the SLT model, the HFE offers 18/25 MPG out of its Pentastar V6 engine and eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission. It is available only on the two-wheel-drive regular cab model with a 6.33-foot bed. Standard features include a 220-amp alternator and an 800-amp battery to assist with the start-stop system. 3.21:1 axle gearing is also standard. 2014 changes. The option of air suspension became available on the rear of the 2014 model year 2500 and 3500 pick-up trucks. 1500 models  added the option of an Eco-Diesel V6. 2500 models now feature coil spring suspension, instead of leaf spring. The cast iron, flex-fuel, 4.7 V8 Chrysler PowerTech engine was discontinued, ending Corsair engine production, leaving the Ram 1500 with two engine choices. The aluminum, flex fuel 3.6 V6 Pentastar is now the base engine, along with the 8-speed Torque-Flite transmission. The 3.6 L Pentastar V6 was available on Laramie and Longhorn trims. The Ram heavy-duty series of trucks (2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500) received a new interior design and revised exterior styling from the Ram 1500 , which was restyled in 2013. Also for 2014, the new Outdoorsman trim became available particularly for buyers who hunt, fish, and camp. The Mossy Oak special edition (originally made in 2012) also returned as well for 2014. 2016 changes. For 2016, the all-new Ram 1500 Rebel debuted, offering off-road suspension with a higher ride height, larger tires, and a unique interior to add to the Ram 1500 Big Horn and Lone Star trim levels. It features a unique blacked-out grille with powder coated front bumper and exclusive aluminum hood, skid plates, and tow hooks. It is available  with either a and 3.6 L Pentastar VVT FlexFuel-Capable V6 engine or a and 5.7 L HEMI V8 engine. Four-wheel drive is available with either powertrain, but the two-wheel drive model is V8-only. The sole body configuration offered is a crew cab with a short pickup bed. SLT models of all Ram trucks now receive the U Connect 5.0BT (RA2) touch-screen radio as standard equipment, adding steering wheel-mounted remote phone controls, Bluetooth hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a USB port, and 3.5 mm auxiliary input jack, Radio Data System  (RDS), voice control, in-radio vehicle customization, and a full-color five-inch LCD touch-screen display. This was previously a $495.00 option on the Ram SLT. 2017 changes. For 2017, the Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn and Limited trims received the new RAM front grille and "RAM" emblem across the rear tailgate that debuted on the 2016 RAM 1500 Rebel. In mid-2017, the RAM 1500's 3.0 L EcoDiesel V6 turbodiesel engine, produced by VM Motori, was dropped in mid-2017 in response to emissions cheating allegations. The engine was re-introduced in early 2018, as re-certification by the  EPA has been obtained. The 1500 SLT model loses the U Connect ACCESS 8.4 infotainment system (RA3) option, leaving the U Connect 5.0BT (RA2) radio as the only radio option. However. all Ram heavy-duty (2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500) SLT models still offered the U Connect ACCESS 8.4 infotainment system (RA3) as an option. The Rebel trim level of the Ram 1500 gains the previously optional U Connect ACCESS 8.4A infotainment system as standard equipment, as do the Big Horn and Lone Star trim levels. A Rebel Black Edition Package is available that adds black accents to the Rebel . The Laramie trim level of the Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 gets a standard nine-speaker, 506-watt Alpine 7.1-channel surround-sound premium audio system as standard equipment. Three new special edition trim levels debut for 2017 for the Ram 1500 model: There is also a new Off-Road Package available for all Ram 2500 models (aside from the Power Wagon trim level, which includes the package as standard equipment), and includes unique pickup bedside graphics, off-road suspension, front tow hooks, and the protection package. The mid-level SLT trim level of the RAM 1500 is  no longer available to retail customers, as it is now a lesser-equipped model reserved exclusively for fleet customers. However, the SLT trim level still remains for the Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 models, and are still available to retail customers. However, retail customers wanting SLT features such as chrome front and rear bumpers and front grille, seventeen-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, power windows and door locks with keyless entry, the U Connect 5.0BT (RA2) touch-screen radio, cloth seating surfaces, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a rear-view backup camera system, and floor carpeting, can still opt for the Chrome  Appearance and Popular Equipment Packages on the Tradesman model. For customers wanting a less expensive Bluetooth option for the Ram truck, a new U Connect 3.0BT (RA2) radio is available for an additional $200.00, which includes an A/M-F/M radio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio tuner, Radio Data System (RDS), U Connect Bluetooth hands-free phone system with audio streaming and voice command, steering wheel-mounted remote voice command controls, a USB port, and 3.5 mm auxiliary audio input jack, and a three-inch (3.0") monochrome LCD display screen. This radio option is available for the Tradesman trim  level of all Ram trucks, and the Express trim level of the Ram 1500, and is included as part of a Popular Equipment Package on the latter model. Previously, customers wanting Bluetooth on a Ram Tradesman or Ram 1500 Express would have to upgrade to the U Connect 5.0BT (RA2) touch-screen radio, which would add the same features as described above, as well as onscreen vehicle customization via the radio, and a full five-inch (5.0") color touch-screen display, and cost an additional $495.00. In order to do this, the customer would also have to select the  Popular Equipment Package on both models. The RAM 2500 Power Wagon returned with a 6.4 L HEMI gasoline V8 engine, a unique graphics package (delete option), black front grille, door handles, larger tires, and black aluminum-alloy wheels as well as the Off-Road Package. The Power Wagon Package is also available for the Ram 2500 Tradesman trim level, and also adds the 6.4 L HEMI gasoline V8 engine. 2018 changes. Changes to the Ram for 2018 included the addition of HD Radio to all U Connect 8.4 infotainment systems, as well as a new 4G LTE wireless hot -spot provided by AT&T Wireless, an AT&T Wireless 4G LTE in-vehicle modem (both the AT&T Wireless 4G LTE modem and 4G LTE mobile hot-spot replace the Sprint 3G CDMA modem and 3G CDMA mobile hot-spot offered on previous Ram models), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration for the U Connect 8.4 infotainment systems, and the SiriusXM Guardian service replacing the U Connect ACCESS service offered on previous RAM models for the U Connect 8.4 infotainment systems. In addition, all U Connect 8.4 infotainment systems get a new User Interface design for  easier navigation of menus and applications. The VM Motori-produced 3.0 L EcoDiesel V6 turbodiesel engine returned in early 2018 for the RAM 1500, as it has been re-certified by the EPA after allegations of emissions cheating in 2017. Most upper trim levels of the RAM 1500 (Sport, Rebel, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited) get the new RAM front grille introduced for 2016, as well as a large 'RAM' emblem on the rear tailgate. Lower to mid-trim levels of the RAM 1500 (Tradesman, Express, Big Horn, Lone Star, and Laramie) retain the standard RAM "Cross-Hair" front grille. The  Night Edition and Lone Star Silver Edition trim levels were continued. For 2018, there are two new special editions: 2019 changes. For 2019, the current fourth-generation Ram 1500 will be sold alongside its successor, the fifth-generation Ram 1500. Virtually identical to 2018 models, 2019 trucks were given a new name, Ram 1500 Classic, to distinguish them from their all-new fifth-generation successors. The Ram 1500 Classic will offer a 2-Door Regular Cab model, whereas the fifth-generation Ram 1500 will not. In addition, Quad and Crew Cab models are also expected to be offered. In addition , the current-generation Ram 2500, Ram 3500, and Ram 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab models were redesigned for the 2019 model year. In addition to a totally new front clip, the 2019 Ram 2500 and 3500 received new frames and updated interiors that borrowed heavily from the new DT 1500 interior. The Hemi 5.7L engine is dropped (except in Mexico-market Ram 4000), and the Hemi 6.4L becomes the base engine. For 2500 and 3500 pickups with the 6.4L, a ZF 8HP75-LCV 8-speed automatic is mated. The 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel returns in both Standard and High-Output form, but  with a new compacted-graphite iron (CGI) block. Only automatic transmissions are available (except on Mexico-market Ram 4000). 2020 changes. For 2020, the Laramie trim, which was only available with the 3.0L turbocharged EcoDiesel V6 engine, is discontinued. Tradesman, Express, SLT (fleet only), Warlock, and Big Horn trims remain. A Black Appearance Package becomes available for the Warlock trim, which adds twenty-inch black-finished aluminum-alloy wheels, and other black accents to the exterior of the truck. 2021 changes. For 2021, the Ram 1500 Classic Warlock trim receives an Off-Road Package, which includes all-terrain tires, as  well as unique aluminum-alloy wheels. The Big Horn trim is also discontinued, with most of its features now available on the fleet-only SLT trim. Base Tradesman and Express trims receive a newly-available Infotainment Package, which includes the U Connect 4C 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. The base U Connect 3.0 and U Connect 3.0BT radios are discontinued, as the U Connect 3 5.0BT touchscreen radio becomes standard equipment on all models, also adding the U Connect Bluetooth hands-free phone system with audio streaming  and steering wheel-mounted phone controls as standard equipment on all models. 2022 changes. For 2022, all Ram 1500 Classic models receive an optional upgraded U Connect 5 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which now includes wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, as well as a new operating system powered by Android. The older U Connect 4C GPS navigation radio, as well as the U Connect 3 5.0BT touchscreen radio, both remain available. Plug-in hybrid. A two-mode hybrid version was planned to begin production in 2010, but Chrysler decided to cancel it in favor  of a smaller test fleet of 140 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Rams developed with support from a million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy financed through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The Chrysler PHEV pickup project has an estimated total cost of million. The RAM 1500 pickup PHEV was introduced at the January 2011 Washington Auto Show. The vehicle is part of a three-year demonstration program intended to field test and evaluate battery performance across a wide range of drive cycles and temperature ambients, and also to evaluate customer acceptance. The PHEV demonstrator pick-up  trucks are assembled at the Warren Truck Assembly plant in Michigan and the plug-in hybrid conversion takes place at the Chrysler Technology Center in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The demonstrators are being allocated for field testing among local and state governments, utility companies, and a US Army base. Chrysler has no plans for a production version. The Ram 1500 PHEV demonstrator has a 345 hp 5.7 L Hemi V8 gasoline engine mated to a two-mode hybrid transmission and a 12.9 kWh 355V lithium-ion battery from Electrovaya. This setup allows an all-electric range of more than , but as  a blended plug-in hybrid, the RAM PHEV does not run exclusively all-electric during EV mode. The fully charged plug-in starts off with charge depletion with limited regeneration at the high end of the state of charge (SoC). That ramps up to a full regenerative capability somewhere in the 70 to 95% range and depletes down to about 20%. Once depleted, it comes into a narrow charge-sustaining range. The plug-in pick-up meets AT-PZEV emissions standards, making it the only full-size V8 pickup with an AT-PZEV rating. Its fuel economy in charge-depleting  mode is more than in city driving. The Ram 1500 PHEV is capable of towing up to . The first 20 Ram PHEV demonstrators were delivered in May 2011 to Clark County, Nevada and Yuma, Arizona, with 10 units each city. Other cities that received the demonstration PHEVs are San Francisco and Sacramento, California, Albany, New York, and Charlotte, North Carolina. In September 2011, another 10 units were delivered to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Another 5 units were delivered to Central Hudson Gas & Electric and National Grid. DTE Energy in Detroit is scheduled to receive 10 Ram PHEVs. Issues . Fire incident, Hybrid, 2012. In September 2012, Chrysler temporarily suspended the demonstration program. All 109 Ram 1500 Plug-in Hybrids and 23 Chrysler Town & Country plug-in hybrids deployed by the program were recalled due to damage sustained by three separate pickup trucks when their 12.9 kWh battery packs overheated. The carmaker plans to upgrade the battery packs with cells that use a different lithium-ion chemistry before the vehicles go back into service. Chrysler explained that no one was injured from any of the incidents, and the vehicles were not occupied at the time, nor any of the minivans  were involved in any incident, but they were withdrawn as a precaution. The demonstration is a program jointly funded by Chrysler and the U.S. Department of Energy that includes the first-ever factory-produced vehicles capable of reverse power flow. The experimental system would allow fleet operators to use their plug-in hybrids to supply electricity for a building during a power outage, reduce power usage when electric rates are high or even sell electricity back to their utility company. The company reported that the demonstration fleet had collectively accumulated 1.3 million miles (2.1 million km) before the vehicles were  recalled. Chrysler also reported that the plug-in pickups delivered peak average fuel economy of , while the plug-in hybrid minivans delivered . Remote Control, Software, Uconnect Entertainment System, 2015. Charlie Miller, security researcher for Twitter and former NSA hacker, and Chris Valasek, director of vehicle security research at the consultancy IOActive, showed how a Jeep Cherokee can be remote controlled. FCA recalled 1.4 million vehicles with the Uconnect entertainment system onboard. Safety. The Ram comes standard with four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, and an electronic stability program or ESP. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS ) crash tests, the 2009 Ram received a "Good" overall score in the frontal crash test, and a "Marginal" score in the side impact test, as well as the roof strength test. It received a 5-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA, however under later testing methods it received an overall 3-star rating. In the side-pole test it was given a single star rating, because of excessive forces to the thoracic region. While the Ram 1500 features standard side-curtain airbags it does not include side torso airbags. The vehicle was redesigned and retested, and received a  5-star rating. Fifth generation (2019; DT). The fifth-generation Ram made its debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, on January 15, 2018 while its HD version made its debut at the same show on January 14, 2019. 2019 Ram 1500 sales began the first quarter of 2018 as an early 2019 model year vehicle. The 2019 Ram 1500 pickup truck offered just seven trim levels, compared to the previous 11 different trim levels. Ram added eTorque to the 2019 Ram 1500 as an option. eTorque combined a belt-drive generator with a battery  pack to provide short-term torque and energy regeneration to increase torque output by up to 130 ft-lbs to the 5.7 L Hemi. Also introduced in 2019 was the new U-connect platform sporting a 12-inch touchscreen display, the largest in its class. The 2019 Ram 1500 saw increases in capability for this new model year with payload increasing to 2300 lbs and maximum trailer tow reaching 12,750 lbs when properly equipped. This pairs with a total weight reduction of about 225 lbs compared to the previous generation. 2021 changes. The 2021 model year received a Trailer Reverse  Steering Control option as a part of the Trailer-Tow package. The 2021 Ram 1500 also received a Snow Plow Prep Package option. World markets. In 2016, Ram trucks were available in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Angola, Peru, Europe, and the Middle East. The Ram trucks officially sold in many Latin American countries are outfitted with UNECE WP.29 lighting equipments, including the taillights with separate amber turn signal indicators. No right-hand-drive version has been built for the United Kingdom, South Africa, and other countries where the rule of road is on the  left. In 2016, FCA via the Ateco (ASV) group commenced selling the Ram 2500 and 3500 in Australia and the Ram 1500 in 2018. These are converted to right-hand drive in Australia before the sale. Pricing commences from $80,000AUD (approx US$54,000 as of 28/08/19) for the 1500. Ram trucks are provided for the European market in cooperation with FCA by AEC Europe in Germany and the Swiss company AutoGlobal Trade. Germany and Scandinavian countries are some of the largest European markets for the Ram. A thriving cottage industry in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom has  imported and converted Ram trucks to right-hand-drive and to meet the local regulations, being more common in Australia since LHD cars less than 30 years old (or 15 years old if registered in Western Australia) cannot be legally driven on Australian public roads unless they are granted a diplomatic or a research and development exception to the rule. In the United Kingdom and Japan, there is no such restriction, so a stock LHD Ram (or any other LHD vehicle) is not required to undergo the costly and time-consuming process of an RHD conversion in order to  be compliant with EU regulations. Nissan Titan. Following the collapse of Nissan Titan sales in 2008, there were talks that the next generation of Nissan's full-sized pickup would be outsourced to Chrysler as a version of the Ram 1500. Nissan had been planning to phase out Titan production in its Canton, Mississippi factory in 2010 with the new Nissan-only design for a cab, body and interior riding on the Dodge Ram chassis assembled in Chrysler's truck assembly lines in Saltillo, Mexico. However, the deal to build Nissan Titan pickups off the full-sized Dodge Ram pickup  starting in 2011 was delayed with the changes at Chrysler and Fiat. Nissan eventually decided to keep the Titan, and went on to release the second generation Titan as a 2016 model. Motorsport. The Ram Pickup represented both the Dodge and Ram brands in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series from 1995 to 2016, having won the Manufacturer's Championship in 2001, 2003, and 2004. The Ram Pickup also won the San Felipe 250 in 2008 and 2009.