In an exciting announcement for truck enthusiasts, the CEO of Ram has asserted that their forthcoming mid-size pickup will truly embody the essence of a "real truck." This new vehicle is designed to compete directly with popular models like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, boasting capabilities that could rival those of the larger Ram 1500.
The development of this mid-size pickup aims to offer features and performance that align closely with its bigger counterpart, the Ram 1500. Previously, Ram marketed both the older version of the 1500, known as the ‘DS,’ alongside the newer ‘DT’ generation in the United States. This strategy allowed the brand to appeal to a broader range of customers by providing diverse price points.
According to CEO Kuniskis, this dual offering created a unique position for Ram within the industry. He mentioned, "We really had a sweet spot in the industry where we had the old truck and the new truck, and the old truck was competing at a price point, quite frankly, wasn’t that far away from the midsize segment."
Kuniskis recognized that it would be challenging for Ram to compete on price with smaller rivals while offering a full-size pickup. However, he emphasized that the upcoming mid-size model "needs to be a credible truck," meaning it must possess genuine capabilities while being slightly smaller and more accessible than its larger relative.
He further elaborated on the expectations for the new truck, stating, "So it’s gotta be a real truck, gotta have real capability, just a little smaller and a little bit more accessible." This implies that potential buyers should anticipate features such as substantial towing capacity and ample payload, ensuring that the truck meets the expectations of traditional truck enthusiasts. "It can’t be, you know, a car that you put a bed on," he clarified, indicating that the new model must be robust and functional.
As a reference, entry-level versions of the Ram 1500 available in Australia are capable of carrying a payload of 879 kg and have a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 kg. In the competitive Australian market, most trucks classified as ‘mid-size’ generally provide payload capacities nearing 1,000 kg. However, it’s noteworthy that high-spec dual-cab models may sometimes fall below this one-ton threshold, featuring towing limits around 3,500 kg.
An exception to this trend is the recently launched Ford Ranger Super Duty, which, from the factory, is equipped to tow up to 4,500 kg and can handle a payload of 1,825 kg on dual-cab configurations, not including any additional trays.
While it is conceivable that Ram's compact model might parallel some specifications of the larger 1500, the company may also opt to differentiate capabilities across various models. This could allow for a lower entry price for lighter-duty versions, with more expensive variations offering features on par with the 1500.
It seems likely that the new model will feature a full ladder chassis, as Kuniskis suggested that it won’t follow a car-based structure.
Outside the U.S., Ram currently markets three smaller models. One example is the Ram 700, which utilizes the front-wheel-drive platform of the Fiat Argo hatchback. While it carries the Ram name in Mexico, it is sold as the Fiat Strada in Brazil.
Moving up in size, the Ram Rampage, available in Latin America, resembles a traditional dual-cab truck but is constructed on a monocoque chassis shared with the Jeep Compass SUV.
Additionally, Ram collaborates with China's Changan to offer a rebadged version of the Changan Hunter under the names Ram Dakota or Ram 1200, specifically targeting the Latin American markets.
Despite having a variety of smaller models available, the mid-size truck expected for the U.S. market – which is anticipated to carry the Dakota name – will be an entirely independent model, crafted specifically by Stellantis, Ram's parent company.
