2024 Ram 3500 Big Horn on 2040-cars

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Ram goes all-in on SAE J2807 tow ratings [w/video]

Thanks to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), when car shoppers look at horsepower and torque figures on vehicles, they know that all the automakers are calculating them the same way. However, that isn't the case when it comes to truck buyers and max towing capacity ratings because each company figures the value differently. That practice finally changes with the SAE's standardized J2807 system, though, and Ram Truck is the first one to apply the new test procedure to its entire light- and heavy-duty pickup range.
All models of the Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 use the new, standardized rating for the 2015 model year, but buyers might not notice too much difference. According to the company, in 99 percent of cases the max towing weights are unchanged or even improve slightly from last year. That's a strong result compared to the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra that are seeing few increases but mostly decreases under the new testing procedure.
"For too long, an uneven playing field existed and towing capacities went unchecked. We're happy to be the only pickup truck manufacturer to align with the SAE J2807 towing standard across our pickup truck lineup," said Mike Cairns, director of Ram Truck engineering, in the company's announcement of the new specs.

Ram 1500 Classic reportedly getting budget-friendly off-road package for 2021

Ram confirmed the last-generation 1500, which wears the Classic nameplate, will return for 2021. Buyers will again have three trim levels to choose from, but the brand will reportedly add an off-road-oriented package to the range. Motorists who select the Warlock model (pictured) will soon be able to order a package named Warlock All-Terrain, according to Mopar Insiders. Assigned order code ASJ, it bundles all-terrain tires made by Yokahama, a full-size spare tire, 17-inch aluminum wheels painted flat black, plus front and rear all-weather floor mats. Ordering the All-Terrain package certainly doesn't transform the 1500 Classic into a TRX for off-roaders on a tight budget, but it will allow buyers to skip a trip to the nearest tire store after they take delivery. And, the Warlock is more capable off the beaten path than other variants of the 1500 Classic, because it receives heavy-duty rear shocks, a one-inch suspension lift, Rebel-like bumpers that increase its approach and departure angles, and tow hooks. Visually, it stands out with a black grille and cladding over the wheel arches, among other styling cues. Ram hasn't confirmed the report, and it hasn't outlined the changes it's making to the 1500 Classic for 2021. Pricing for the entry-level truck allegedly starts at $30,145 once a rather high $1,695 destination charge enters the equation, and the range-topping Warlock model costs $38,040 with the same charge factored in. Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. 2020 Ram 2500 Power Wagon POV drive

Stellantis will enter joint venture with Samsung SDI for EV batteries

SEOUL — South Korean battery maker Samsung SDI Co Ltd and global automaker Stellantis NV have agreed to jointly produce electric vehicle (EV) batteries for the North American market, a person familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. Samsung SDI, an affiliate of South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics, already has EV battery plants in South Korea, China and Hungary, which supply customers such as BMW and Ford. "The two companies (Samsung SDI and Stellantis) have struck a MOU (memorandum of understanding) to produce EV batteries for North America," the person with knowledge of the matter told Reuters. The source spoke of condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. The person said the location of the battery joint venture is under review and will be announced later. In July, Reuters reported that Samsung SDI may build a battery plant in the United States, citing a company source. South Korea's Yonhap news agency earlier reported the two companies plan to build a factory in the United States, citing industry sources. Samsung SDI and Stellantis did not have immediate comment when reached by Reuters. Stellantis on Monday struck a preliminary deal with battery maker South Korea's LG Energy Solution (LGES) to produce battery cells and modules for North America. Shares of Samsung SDI were up 2.6% as of 0300 GMT, versus a 0.6% rise in the KOSPI benchmark index. Related video: Green Alfa Romeo Chrysler Dodge Ferrari Fiat Jeep Maserati RAM Citroen Lancia Opel Peugeot Vauxhall