2014 Ram 1500 Slt on 2040-cars

Auto blog

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 providing horsepower for 142nd Kentucky Derby

More than 120,000 people will descend on Louisville, KY for the 142nd Kentucky Derby this weekend. Seersucker, bowties, and very large, obnoxious hats will be the most common attire among those in attendance, all of whom will have an unquenchable thirst for mint juleps. Ram wants to capture their attention. The truckmaker has announced a new "multi-tier sponsorship" of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, and will serve as a major advertiser during Saturday's race. The company will air two 30-second advertisements during NBC's broadcast. The first, titled "Truck People – Derby" is up top, while Ram is saving the second, "Never Settle," for race day. Beyond the ads, racegoers will be treated to on-site displays around the track, which is perhaps the best evidence of a truck's toughness – if the official truck of the Kentucky Derby can survive its notoriously "decadent and depraved" infield, it can probably handle towing a boat or hauling topsoil. The three trucks, a Rebel, a 1500 Limited, and a dual-axle 3500 Limited will even be decked out in jockey-like styles. To help build up to its Derby involvement, Ram has released a first-person point-of-view video, just in case you've ever wondered what kind of view the jockeys have as they lap the one-mile dirt track. You can see that video below. This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.

Ram 2500 HD video shows off new engine, rear suspension

We've already had a chance to drive the 2014 Ram 3500 HD, but the big news for the 2014 Ram Heavy Duty lineup might be centered around the three-quarter-ton 2500 model. Chrysler has released a new video highlighting the new features of the 2014 Ram 2500 HD, including its new optional engine and new rear suspension components.
The video starts by showing off the Ram's new 410-horsepower 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and then gives us an up-close look at the coil spring, multi-link rear suspension - one of the truck's most important upgrades aimed at delivering a smooth ride. In addition to this coil suspension, the Ram 2500 HD will also be available with a rear air suspension system, which Chrysler says will optimize the truck's hauling abilities with better load leveling and trailer towing.
Scroll down for the walkaround video of the 2500 HD from Chrysler as well as the original press release breaking down all of the truck's new-for-2014 features.