Ram Pickup

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

Class exclusive manual transmission
Since 2011, Ram trucks are marketed as having "class-exclusive" manual transmissions. This is simply because the competitors stopped using manual transmissions. Chevrolet Silverado trucks discontinued the option of a manual transmission after model year 2006. Ford Super Duty trucks discontinued the option of a manual transmission after model year 2010. This applies to Class 2,Class 3, Class 4 and Class 5 trucks. 2011 and 2012 models make 350 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque. Horsepower remained the same for 2013 models, torque however was increased to 660 lb-ft of torque. Engine output remained the same for 2014 models.

Cab options
The Mega Cab option will be deleted, at least on the 1500 series, replaced by a true four-door crew cab. Other cab options are regular cab and quad cab. The mega cab option remains on the 2500/3500 models. Like the previous generation, the mega cab uses the same wheelbase and overall length as the crew cab/long bed configuration, but instead of using a long bed, the rear cab is extended. Legroom remains unchanged but the rear seats are 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 9,100 lb (4,100 kg) 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 10,450 lb (4,740 kg) without changing the setup.[18] For the 2010 model, payload was increased by 50 lb (23 kg) to 1,900 lb (860 kg) for the regular cab 2WD model with the 3.7 litre V-6 engine.

Towing capacity for the regular cab Ram 1500 with 3.21 differential is rated at 6,100 lb (2,800 kg) with 17-inch wheels and 5,900 lb (2,700 kg) with 19-inch wheels. Crew Cab and Quad Cab models are rated at 5,700 lb (2,600 kg) and 5,800 lb (2,600 kg) respectively.

Gross Combined Weight Ratings is 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) for all Ram 1500s with 3.21 axles; max 15,500 lb (7,000 kg) for 2WD Ram 1500 with long bed, 5.7 l hemi engine, and a 3.92 differential.

Heavy Duty Chassis Cabs
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 383 bhp (286 kW) at 5,600 RPM and 542 N·m (400 lb·ft) at 4,000 RPM for Ram 3500, 6.7 l Cummins turbo diesel rated 350 bhp (260 kW) at 3,013 RPM and 880 N·m (650 lb·ft) at 1,500 RPM for Ram 3500 (optional), 4500, 5500. Late-model 2011 diesel trucks were up-rated to 800 lb·ft (1,085 N·m) 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" 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.

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.
 * 1  strength-to-weight ratio: 2.97


 * 2  strength-to-weight ratio: 3.17

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.
 * 1) ^ Model Year of car crash-tested, not year of Overall Rating. Older crash tests usually carry over to newer car models.
 * 2) ^ Amount of cars produced of this model.
 * 3) ^ Also known as Moving Deformable Barrier.
 * 4) ^ Head Injury Criteria (HIC38) has a threshold of 1000.
 * 5) ^ Largest deformation of vehicle part after impact.
 * 6) ^ Side Barrier Rating, combines front and rear seats.
 * 7) ^ RLSA=Resultant Lower Spine Acceleration, measured in g-force. Threshold is 82g.

2013 changes
The 1500 gets a minor restyling. It features new front fascia, 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 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 3.7L V6 is discontinued, and the 4.7L V8 equipped with the 6-speed 65RFE Automatic takes its place as the new base engine, still producing 310 bhp (230 kW) and 330 lb·ft (450 N·m). New to the lineup is Chrysler's corporate 3.6L Pentastar V6, coupled to the new ZF 8-speed Torqueflite8 Automatic. It achieves best in class fuel efficiency and makes 305 bhp (227 kW) and 269 lb·ft (365 N·m). The Pentastar/ZF 8-speed is a $1000 option(2013). Due to a new electric power steering system, the 5.7L HEMI V8 no longer has a power steering pump, and gains 5 horsepower, now making 395 bhp (295 kW) and 410 lb·ft (560 N·m). It is still available with the 65RFE 6-speed Automatic, having the new 8-speed Torqueflite8 Automatic as an extra cost option. Air suspension is a $1595 option for 2013 models, offering four ride height settings. Electronic stability control becomes standard on 2500 & 3500 models. For 2013, the Ram is also the first North American pickup truck to offer keyless ignition.

In addition, a range of new infotainment systems are available for the RAM 1500 for 2013, with the RAM 1500 being one of the first vehicles to feature these new infotainment systems:

The base U Connect 3.0 (RA1) radio includes an A/M-F/M 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" U Connect 5.0BT (RA2) radio adds a full-color, 5.0-inch color touch-screen display, voice control for phone, a microSD 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 U Connect ACCESS 8.4A (RA3) and U Connect ACCESS 8.4AN (RA4). These radios add a full-color, 8.4-inch color touch-screen display, full voice control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, the U Connect ACCESS System, featuring roadside assistance and 9-1-1 emergency call buttons on the rear-view mirror, mobile app compatibility, remote USB ports for 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 simply activated by a dealership for a fee, however, does not include SiriusXM Travel Link or 3D mapping). The U Connect 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
2013 models move up to an 18-inch standard wheel, with 18 inch forged Alcoawheels as an option (300.00 USD). 3500 models offer a High Output package for $2650.00 USD over the standard diesel package. 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, once again, put the Center axle disconnect in 3500 4x4 models. 2500 Ram trucks did not have a CAD system until 2014 models. Ram claims this technology to improve fuel efficiency by 1 MPG, although EPA tests bar class 2 and class 3 trucks from 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 known as the HFE (High Fuel Efficiency). Based on the SLT model, the HFE offers 18/25 MPG out of itsPentastar V6 engine and eight-speed Torque-Flite transmission. Although the transmission has nothing in common with the original Chrysler builtTorqueFlite. It is available only in the six-foot bed, two-door, regular cab model with two-wheel-drive only. A 4x4 model is not offered in this model, nor is a Quad Cab or Crew Cab model. Standard features include a 220 amp alternatorand 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 2014 model year 2500 & 3500 pick up trucks. 1500 models added the option of a 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 is discontinued, ending Corsair engine production. Dodge/Ram 4.7 V-8, 3.7 V-6, Jeep was the Power tech [Dodge/RAM was called Magnum 3.7 V-6 4.7 Magnum V-8 2000-2007 2008-2013 it was just the 3.7 V-6 and 4.7 V-8] The aluminum, flex fuel 3.6 V6Pentastar is now the base engine, along with the 8-speed Torque-Flitetransmission. Ram now offers the 3.6L Pentastar V6 on Laramie, and Longhorn trim.

Production
The Dodge Ram 1500, Dodge Ram Mega Cab, Dodge Ram 2500/3500, DX Chassis Cab (Mexico Market), Dodge Ram 4500/5500 are built in Chrysler's Saltillo Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico; the Dodge Ram 1500 is built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan. The Ram 1500 was also assembled at the Saint Louis Assembly plant in Fenton, Missouri before the plant was permanently closed in July 2009.

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 US$48 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 US$97.4 million.[35][36] 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.[37] 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 U.S. Army base.[38]Chrysler has no plans for a production version.

The Ram 1500 pickup PHEV was introduced at the 2011 Washington Auto Show

The Ram 1500 PHEV demonstrator has a 345 hp 5.7L 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 20 miles (32 km), 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 withcharge 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-PZEVemissions standards, making it the only full-size V8 pickup with an AT-PZEV rating. Its fuel economy in charge-depleting mode is more than 32 mpg-US(7.4 L/100 km; 38 mpg-imp) in city driving. The Ram 1500 PHEV is capable of towing up to 6,000 lb (2,700 kg).

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 will be delivered to Central Hudson Gas & Electric and National Grid. DTE Energy in Detroit is scheduled to receive 10 Ram PHEVs.