Dodge Ram to go Plug-In

DodgePedia — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:18:11 +0000

Looks like Dodge is trading in their hybrid Ram to go all out with an electric plug-in version. Why did the Chrysler brand decide to cut off all connection with your average hybrid, and go all out for the plug? Money, of course. Sources state; “Chrysler’s Ram division received a $48 million cash infusion from the U.S. Department of Energy to use toward its Ram Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle project that will see a trial run of 140 vehicles stationed across the country. Meanwhile, the automaker says it has canceled plans to bring to market a standard Ram Hybrid.” Caaa-ching!

Dodge will use the funding to develop a 5.7-liter Hemi-powered Ram Hybrid, capable of traveling up to 20 miles using only the power supplied by a 12KwHr lithium-ion battery.

“This initiative represents how government, automotive industry, suppliers and key partners are reaching common goals and demonstrates how rapidly this type of advanced technology can be brought to market,” said Paolo Ferrero, Chrysler’s Senior Vice President-Powertrain, in a statement released to the media. “DOE-support for domestic advanced technology is an important enabler for Chrysler Group and its key suppliers in order to understand and test customer acceptance and the capability of PHEV systems in a variety of real-world conditions.”

Chrysler also says “reviewing the public’s response to other hybrid pickups – namely the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra” was another key factor in their decision to stop regular hybrid production.

Source: LeftLaneNews

Ramming Speed – Dodge Ram to Become Own Brand

DodgePedia — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:03:13 +0000

Tiny city car builders Fiat may be the new owner of Chrysler – but that doesn’t mean the CDJ will stop making trucks. Dodge Ram, for example, will not only live on, but will become its very own brand. Chrysler will officially split the Dodge model – giving birth to the Dodge RAM Division and the Dodge Car Division. There will also be a break down in management – Chrysler veteran Frank Diaz Jr. will take over as the president and CEO of the Dodge RAM brand, while designer Ralph Gilles will lead the Dodge Car brand.

The Chrysler Division itself is headed up by Olivier Francois, the current head of Fiat’s Lancia unit. Jeep (yes, Jeep is still around) will stay under the control of Michael Manley. Gilles, best-known designs include the successful Chrysler 300 and the current Dodge Ram interior, will be in charge of expanding the Dodge lineup. Dodge will most likely take a more performance-oriented direction in the future.

Not only will we witness a new Dodge Ram for next year, but a 2011 Jeep Cherokee as well. Looks like everything is coming up Truck!

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Dodge Ram to go Plug-In

Ramming Speed – Dodge Ram to Become Own Brand