Chrysler’s truck brand spun off from Dodge in 2010, becoming F-150’s chief rival with luxury-focused half-ton pickups.
Brand Split
Ram Trucks became standalone brand January 2009 (2010 model year). Separated from Dodge to focus on commercial/work trucks while Dodge kept performance cars.
Fifth Generation Dominance (2019+)
DT platform (2019) won Motor Trend Truck of the Year. 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio, air suspension. “Luxury truck” positioning challenged F-150 Platinum/King Ranch.
Powertrain Innovation
3.0L EcoDiesel (2014+): 32 mpg highway in half-ton truck. 5.7L Hemi eTorque (2019): mild hybrid with 48V system. TRX (2021): 702 hp supercharged Raptor-killer.
TRX Phenomenon (2021-2023)
Ram 1500 TRX brought Hellcat engine to truck world. $70K-90K, 0-60 in 4.5sec, 13-inch suspension travel. #RamTRX = desert running, standing mile records, YouTuber flex.
Cultural Identity
#Ram1500 = work truck credibility meets luxury comfort. Ranchers, contractors, suburban dads. “Guts. Glory. RAM” slogan. Super Bowl ads (MLK “Drum Major” controversy 2018).
https://www.ramtrucks.com/ram-1500.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_pickup