2022 Ram 1500 Laramie on 2040-cars

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2019 Ram 1500 spotted with split tailgate

A little over three years ago, we discovered a patent from Fiat-Chrysler that showed a pickup truck tailgate that not only dropped down like a normal one, but was also split into two swing-out halves. It appears to be a reality now, since one of the Ram 1500 prototypes shown above has just such a tailgate. The tailgate above does look a bit different from the one shown in the patent drawings. For one thing, it's not a 50/50 split in the middle. Instead, Ram seems to have opted for something like a 60/40, or maybe 70/30 split. We're not sure exactly why this is, but there could be a few advantages. For one, It probably allows for the use of the same or nearly the same handle as on conventional Rams, as well as the same badging. For another, if the tailgate operates as described in the patent, it might be possible to open just one side without opening the other, and having the shorter piece could offer some flexibility in tight areas where a larger half couldn't open fully. Testing alongside the split tailgate truck were some other Ram 1500s that had their tailgates completely covered. They did reveal some other cargo management features that should show up on the production truck, such as a return of the RamBox bedside storage compartments. One of the trucks also revealed some ribbed bedsides that would allow the positioning of a cargo divider just about anywhere in the bed. We expect to see the new Ram 1500 to be fully revealed at the Detroit Auto Show in January. In the meantime, you can check out what we believe the production truck will look like, as well as everything we know about it, here. Related Video:

EarthCruiser adds a bigger camper option to its heavy duty pickup line

EarthCruiser is a camper and expedition vehicle company based out of Oregon that we've previously covered for its huge commercial truck-based machines. But they offer more than that, from drop-in campers for smaller pickups to heavy duty pickup conversions. The company's latest product is one of the latter, offering a larger camping area than the current EXD model. This new camper conversion is called the Terranova. The big differentiator between it and the EXD is the camper section, which extends over the truck cab on the Terranova. This means that bed space can be moved to above the truck cab, instead of having to use a convertible dinette. So less reconfiguring, and generally more usable space. One other major difference is that the EXD is only available for the Ram 3500 and Ford F-350. The Terranova is being designed for both of those trucks as well as the Chevy Silverado 3500. The EarthCruiser Terranova is otherwise very similar to other EarthCruiser models. The camper section is made of fiberglass and plastic, and the pop-up roof is insulated with foam. The curtains are triple-layered. The company says it can house four people. It comes with a freshwater tank and pump to help supply the kitchen sink, drinking water tap, bathroom sink and indoor and outdoor showers. There's also a cassette toilet. The kitchen features an induction stove top and small refrigerator and freezer. A fan system is standard, and air conditioning is optional. Power comes from a 400-aH lithium-ion battery. The Terranova isn't yet available. EarthCruiser is finishing up design and engineering, and it plans to have finished examples early next year. The company is taking reservations now, though. Pricing hasn't been announced, but an EXD runs between $220,000 and $265,000, and we would expect the Terranova to cost even more. Related Video: Featured Gallery EarthCruiser Terranova Expedition Camper renderings Chevrolet Ford RAM Truck Off-Road Vehicles Special and Limited Editions RVs/Campers

2021 Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition sells out in three hours

The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition is officially sold out. In fact, it’s been sold out for a little while now. Ram announced today that all 702 trucks were spoken for just three hours after order books opened. Only 702 Launch Editions will ever produced for the U.S. market, the number being a nod to the amount of horsepower its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 produces. All will be painted in a unique Anvil Gray paint that wonÂ’t be offered on regular Ram TRXs. TheyÂ’ll also have a red and brushed aluminum center console badge that identifies it as a Launch Edition truck. ItÂ’s similar to the badge found on the standard TRX interior, but Ram spruced it up a bit for the Launch Edition. Additionally, all Launch Editions will be loaded to the gills with features. It comes with the TR2 (highest) equipment pack, carbon fiber interior trim, color accent package, head-up display, beadlock-capable wheels, 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, panoramic sunroof and body side TRX graphics. All this, and it costs $90,265. “We said the Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition would go fast. And we meant that in more ways than one,” said Mike Koval Jr., Head of Ram Brand. Good one, Ram. There is no limit on regular Ram 1500 TRXs, so if you want one, you can go ahead and order it up. The truck starts at $71,690, so bring your extra-deep wallets. Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.