RAM Trucks Australia has launched the new RAM 1500, with the first hybrid ‘DT’ models coming off the production line at their Melbourne manufacturing facility, and heading straight to dealers across the country.
Following a detailed design, homologation and manufacture process, a test fleet of DTs embarked on a COVID-safe final validation trip around Australia, with one of the test vehicles undertaking a maximum tow rating exercise for the entire 30,000km journey.
This epic, multi-terrain, route went from Melbourne to Broome to Townsville, and back down to Melbourne again via Alice Springs.
The final test and development figures are impressive, over 50,000 hours of pre-build development hours, over 80,000km and 10,000+ hours of rolling road testing and over 50,000km and 7,000+ hours of real-world road driving.
A final 20,000km full vehicle durability test was conducted an Anglesea Proving Ground in Victoria. A successful ADR 85/00 side impact crash test was the final tick for the DT 1500 to be given the green light for full-volume production to commence.
The sculpted design of the new RAM 1500 means it is one of the most aerodynamic trucks in the world, with drag coefficient of just 0.357. It also features exclusive active aerodynamics including grille shutters and air dams.
next generation active-level four corner air suspension, and powered/retractable sidesteps (optional on Laramie editions) help deliver the best combination of ride, handling, off-road capability, load-levelling and entry/exit convenience.
Every petrol 1500 features the legendary 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine with fuel-saver technology featuring the multi-displacement system, also known as cylinder deactivation, to further drive efficiencies.
In addition, the new 1500 DT Laramie and Limited models now come with the new eTorque mild hybrid system to improve efficiency and drivability. This system combines a belt-drive motor generator unit with a 48-volt battery pack.
It provides start/stop functionality, short-term torque assist, and brake energy regeneration. Power and torque outputs are 291kW and 556Nm, respectively. The Ram 1500 also offers more than 90 safety and security features.
On Limited versions, this includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, ready alert braking and trailer sway damping control. Lane departure warning and ParkSense parallel/perpendicular park.
Other features include hill-start assist and LED SmartBeam intelligent headlamps. Inside, the 1500 offers first-class levels of space, a full-length dual-pane panoramic sunroof and heated and ventilated leather seats.
Its premium Harman Kardon audio system features a 900-watt surround sound amplifier, 10-inch subwoofer and active noise cancellation, while the state-of-the-art Uconnect 4 infotainment system offers a class-exclusive 12.0-inch touchscreen.
It features a 360-degree surround view camera, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice-controlled satellite navigation, multifunction USB ports and an integrated wireless charging pad.
The RAM 1500 crew cab has been completely redesigned too, further enhancing the cabin space and rear legroom. It’s now longer and wider than its predecessor, and the spacious leather-lined cabin has over 150-litres of internal storage capacity.
The second row includes 60/40 stadium-folding and reclining seats to eight degrees, and a true flat-load floor with integrated RamBins, tie-down rings and expandable under seat storage.
A reimagined centre console with multiple different storage configurations offers never-before-seen customisation for the most active interior real estate. Out back, a 1.5-cubic metre tray can be specified with the favoured RamBox cargo management system.
A powered tailgate allows ease of access. The new DT Laramie RAM 1500 starts at $114,950 plus on-roads, with the Limited and Limited Launch Edition priced from $139,950 plus on-roads. For further information, contact your local RAM dealer.
