RAM. The history of ‘monstrous’ pickups
Ram Trucks or simply RAM is a full-size pickup truck manufacturer owned by FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles). Until 2011, it was part of Dodge (USA). The RAM brand comprises the production of full-size pickups (which are ranked according to the load capacity index) and cargo-passenger vans, which are still produced at factories in the USA and Mexico. And their debut took place in 1981.
Interesting facts
- The vehicles from this brand are especially popular in their homeland. Thus, in North America alone, annual sales amount to about half a million vehicles. For over 40 years of history, more than 8 million RAM pickups and trucks have been sold, which have already had 5 generations.
- In 2004, the SRT 10 series pickup set a world speed record in its class, reaching 247.4 km/h.
- The name of the company is very interesting and is fully associated with strength and vigor embodied by the American Dodge RAM pickup.
Origins
The history of the brand dates back to 1981. It was then that Dodge decided to start producing full-size pickups. RAM appeared as an independent brand in 2011, when, as part of the reorganization of the production facilities of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, the RAM Trucks company was founded, which inherited the corporate logo from Dodge. How did the signature design of the legendary pickups come about?
By the early 90s of the 20th century, Dodge Ram trucks, which were manufactured by Chrysler Corporation, occupied only 7% of the US pickup truck market segment. At the same time, all the pickups from any manufacturer looked exactly the same. With this in mind, the Chrysler management assigned the designer Trevor Creed to create a completely new and eye-catching truck design.
80% of those who saw the RAM pickup for the first time were shocked and outraged, calling it ‘monstrous’, and 20 percent, on the contrary, loved it immediately.
Thus, in 1994, an unusual pickup with enlarged fenders and a characteristic radiator grille was born. 80% of those who saw the RAM pickup for the first time were shocked and outraged, calling it ‘monstrous’, and 20 percent, on the contrary, loved it immediately. But the most important thing was that the Chrysler management was fascinated, because the new truck did not leave anyone indifferent, while the traditional models did not evoke any vivid emotions. In any case, 20% of potential buyers are better than 7% of real ones.
It turned out to be a tremendous success. The group’s sales jumped from 70,000 vehicles in 1993 to 200,000 in 1994. The new Dodge RAM was named North American Truck of the Year. The following year, more than 250,000 vehicles were sold, and Chrysler’s market share rose to 15%. And in 1998, almost 400,000 of these vehicles were sold, and this was the highest level of sales.
Models
The principal range of pickup modifications is represented by three models: Dodge RAM 1500, 2500 and 3500 (up to 1994, 100/150/250/350). The ranking is done according to the vehicle’s load capacity in pounds. Historically, for full-size pickups, this is half a ton, three quarters and a ton (while the real load capacity is growing with each generation). Since 2008, the pickup range has been continued in the range of full-fledged Dodge RAM trucks, and Dodge RAM 4500/5500 trucks have been released.
Monstrous RAM 3500 pickup
This is the flagship truck in the Ram Trucks range. In 2021, five generations of the pickup can be found on the market. This brutal vehicle is distinguished by truly ‘mighty’ characteristics, making it one of the leaders in the segment of full-size pickups.
RAM 2500 semi-truck
It is called a ‘semi-truck’ and it also has 5 generations (as of 2021). This vehicle does not only strike with its size and look, but also has remarkable cargo and off-road capabilities.
