New RAM 1500 launched in Australia
RAM Trucks Australia’s all-new RAM 1500 has officially arrived, with the first ‘DT’ models coming off the production line at the Melbourne Manufacturing Facility and heading to RAM dealers across the country.
Following a detailed design, homologation and manufacture process, a test fleet of DTs embarked on a final validation trip around Australia. The multi-terrain, route went from Melbourne to Broome to Townsville, and back to Melbourne via Alice Springs. One of the test vehicles undertook a maximum tow rating exercise for the duration of the 30,000km journey.
The final test and development figures include more than 50,000 hours of pre-build development; more than 80,000kms and 10,000-plus hours of rolling road testing; over 50,000km and 7,000-plus hours of real-world road driving; and a final 20,000km full vehicle durability test conducted at the Anglesea Proving Ground in Victoria. A successful ADR 85/00 Side Impact Crash test was the final tick for the DT 1500 to receive the green light for full-volume production to commence.
“We’re delighted to officially welcome the next generation 1500,” said RAM Trucks Australia National Manager, Jeff Barber.
“The all-new 1500 DT marks the culmination of a detailed planning, development, remanufacturing and testing programme with our local and global partners, including Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (US).
“The DT version now swells our 1500 range to five diverse models, from the price-leading Express Quad to Crew Cab, Warlock II, and now DT versions of Laramie, and Limited.
“With the all-new 2500 and 3500 also arriving later this year – and some other exciting developments – 2021 looks set to be a record year for RAM Trucks Australia.”
The company said the truck’s sculpted design means it is one of the most aerodynamic trucks in the world, with a drag coefficient of 0.357. It also features exclusive active aerodynamics including active grille shutters and active air dams, next generation Active-Level Four Corner air suspension, and powered/retractable sidesteps (optional on Laramie editions) to help deliver the best combination of ride, handling, off-road capability, load-levelling, and entry/exit convenience.
Every petrol 1500 features the 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 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 to enable start/stop function, short-term torque assist, and brake energy regeneration. Power and torque outputs are 291kW @ 5600rpm and 556Nm at 3,950rpm respectively.
The 1500 offers more than 90 safety and security features including (on Limited versions) Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Pedestrian Detection, Ready Alert Braking and Trailer-sway Damping control, Lane Departure Warning, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park, Hill-start Assist and LED SmartBeam Intelligent Headlamps.
RAM Trucks Australia said the vehicle sets new benchmarks for luxury full-size pick-up trucks, thanks to its levels of space, full-length dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated leather seats. It also features a premium Harman Kardon audio system, 900-watt surround sound amplifier, 10-inch subwoofer and active noise cancellation.
The state-of-the-art fourth generation Uconnect 4 system and class-exclusive, 12-inch fully configurable touchscreen with split-screen display functionality make for a hi-tech environment. A 360-degree Surround View Camera with bird’s-eye perspective of vehicle, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality, voice-controlled satellite navigation, multifunction USB ports, and an integrated wireless charging pad add to the connected experience.
The truck’s crew cab has been completely redesigned, further enhancing the class-leading cabin space and rear legroom. The cab is longer and wider than its predecessor – including an overall cab length increase of 8cm – and has more than 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 class-leading centre console offers different storage configurations. Out back, a 1.5cu m tray can be specified with the favoured RamBox Cargo Management System for added usability, while a powered tailgate allows ease of access.
The 1500 starts at $114,950 plus on road costs for Laramie. The 1500 Limited and Limited Launch Edition are priced at $139,950 plus on road costs.
