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Ram granted patent for in-bed ramp system

Most of the patent filings we report on these days are of a pretty high-tech nature: everything from "humanized" navigation systems to 11-speed transmissions. But cool innovations can be lower-tech and clever, too. At least that's our feeling after seeing some proposed plans from Ram. FCA has filed a patent for a system of built-in ramps recessed inside of a truck bed. While stowable ramps aren't new – Ford offers a similar system for the F-150 ­– the level of integration shown in these diagrams seems to be. Drawings show ramps that run on channels in the bed and tailgate, hinged at the end of the extended gate for a gentle upslope into the cargo area. What's more, the system seems changeable, with two ramps set wide or narrow, or just one centrally mounted. Just the thing for switching from motorcycle-loading season to snowmobile-loading season. A granted patent doesn't always lead to a product brought to market, of course. Issues with cost, durability, and demand all have a lot to say about what makes it from design to showroom. Still, we think the proposed RamRamp (feel free to use that, FCA) shows a ton of promise. Speak up truck owners, is a factory-installed ramp system like the one you see here something you'd pay for on your next vehicle? Get into Comments, below, and let us know. Related Video: Featured Gallery Ram in-bed ramps patent drawings News Source: USPTO via Allpar RAM Truck patent

2019 Ram HD Sport trim revealed

Most of the 2019 Ram HD was revealed at the Detroit Auto Show, but Ram held back one tidbit of info in the form of the just-announced Sport Package. Don't get your hopes up for some sort of SRT-style Ram HD; this is exclusively a trim package, but at least it looks nice. The package swaps chrome bumpers, door handles and grille surround for body color versions. Inside, Sport Package Ram HDs get a black interior with piano black trim pieces. To sweeten the deal, parking assist sensors are standard with the package. To get the Sport Package, you'll have to get your Ram HD with at least the Big Horn trim. Lone Star and Laramie trims also offer the package. Within those trims, the Sport Package is available with any cab or engine combination. Pricing isn't out yet, but based on the outgoing model's pricing, a Big Horn Ram HD will likely start a little under $45,000, and the Sport Package will probably cost about $2,500. We should have more exact pricing details closer to the on-sale date. Related Video:

Ram introduces 5th and final 'Built to Serve' edition

Ram introduced the fifth and final variant of its "Built to Serve" pickup series Tuesday. Finished in Spitfire (orange) or Bright White, this final version honors the Coast Guard.  "We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our armed forces and the brave men and women who serve them. These 'Built to Serve' models are just one way we honor those who have selflessly served our country," said Mike Koval Jr., Ram Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis. "Whether civilian or military, Ram truck owners are very familiar with this adage as itÂ’s something we strive to build into every truck and van we produce." The trucks were originally slated to roll out in increments between Veterans Day 2019 and 2020, but it appears the release cadence may have been interrupted slightly by the many calamities of the past year. Each of the five comes in one of two special colors chosen to "evoke the spirit, the mission and history of that service," and a limited build number. These are the final of 10,000 (1,000 more than Ram initially planned) "Built to Serve" editions divvied up so that each branch gets two appropriate color choices out of 10 total: Gator (1,000 units) and Diamond Black (1,000); Ceramic Gray (1,000) and Patriot Blue (1,000); Anvil (1,250) and Billet Silver (1,500); Tank (1,000) and Flame Red (1,000); and Spitfire (500) and Bright White (750).  Available on every body style and powertrain, a Built to Serve package costs $2,795. Every truck comes with the 4x4 Off-Road Group, which bundles features like all-terrain tires, an electronic-locking rear axle, hill descent control, tow hooks, and four thick skid plates. They're easy to spot thanks to their prominent rear quarter panel decals. Cosmetic upgrades include an all-black grille and surround, black badges, side steps, black four-inch exhaust tips, body-colored wheel arch trim, and 20-inch wheels finished in Technical Gray.  Ram has used the series to help bring more attention to a volunteer initiative the automaker has run since 2015, not-coincidentally called Built to Serve.  Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.