2009 Dodge Ram 1500

All-new 2009 Dodge Ram Breaks From the Herd — Literally

• First-in-segment coil-spring, multilink rear suspension fitted to a solid rear axle provides ride and handling capabilities unexpected in a pickup truck
   
• All-new, bold, powerful, "get-out-of-the-way" Dodge Ram design
• New, aggressive "grille-forward" design
• First-in-segment chrome-tipped dual exhaust styled dramatically into the rear bumper
• Best-in-class aerodynamics – an estimated .419 Cd
   
• Dodge Ram's first-ever crew-size cab, giving Dodge an entry into the largest and fastest-growing part of the market. Crew-size cab accounts for nearly 50 percent of market
   
• New 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 provides more horsepower (380 hp) and torque (404 lb.-ft.), with increased fuel economy (an estimated 4 percent)
• Shockingly fast performance: 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds
   
• New interiors with premium seating, soft-touch materials, redesigned controls, floor console with shifter, and nearly double the storage options
   
• More than 35 new or improved features
   
• Industry-first RamBox cargo management system (crew-size cab) includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage bins built into bed rails (a total of 8.6 cubic feet of space); pickup bed divider/2-foot bed extender; and cargo rail system with four sliding, adjustable cleats
• RamBox bins hold up to 10 cases of 12-ounce beverages, or other gear for work or leisure
   
• First-in-segment "store in the floor" storage bins with removable liners, big enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice
   
• First-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats also available
• Heated steering wheel a first for any Chrysler LLCvehicle
   
• First-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™
   
• First-in-segment surround-sound audio system
   
• More than 30 safety features, including standard four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System and Electronic Stability Program with Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control
   
• All-new 2009 Dodge Ram to arrive this fall
   
• Light-duty diesel to arrive after 2009; two-mode hybrid powertrain to be offered in 2010 model year

Emerging from a herd of 120 long horn cattle driven by 10 cowboys on horseback down Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit today, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

"Since the dawn of the 'big rig' look, Dodge Ram has always been a game-changer," said Jim Press, Vice Chairman and President, Chrysler LLC. "And this is our all-new game-changer -- the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, which is packed with full-size pickup firsts and best-in-class features."

In 1994, Dodge introduced a revolutionary Ram in the light-duty pickup market, with its "big rig" styling and iconic crosshair grille.

"We put a truck on the market that tripled our market share," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Jeep®/Truck Design Studio, Chrysler LLC. "Our design was polarizing — people loved it or hated it. But the people who loved it, bought it. They still do, because Dodge Ram continues to stand out from the herd of 'me-too' trucks."

For the redesign of its all-new, next-generation Ram, Dodge pulled out all the stops.

"Our mandate was to make a quantum leap and add even more voltage to Ram," said Scott Kunselman, Vice President – Body-on-Frame Product Team. "Our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is a game-changer in terms of capability, convenience, craftsmanship and safety."

Capability

In addition to the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI which produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers a 4.7-liter V-8 providing 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque; four- and five-speed automatic transmissions; part-time and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer cases; and 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 and 4.10 axle ratios.

Equipped with the new HEMI, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew-size cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot-4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot-7-inches (Ram crew 1500). Five trim levels are available, each with a unique appearance: ST, SLT, TRX, Sport, and the top-of-the-line Laramie.

An improved frame design incorporating high-strength steel supports an all-new, first-in-segment, multi-link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,850 pounds) and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 pounds).

Convenience

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 features an available first-in-segment RamBox cargo management system that provides weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides for effortless access and convenience. Each box holds up to 4.3 cubic feet of whatever — such as five cases (120 cans) of 12-ounce beverages.

The RamBox system includes a bed divider/2-foot bed extender for oversize loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats for infinitely adjustable tie-down capability. The 2009 Dodge Ram's tailgate features a standard assist feature that reduces the effort needed to raise and close the tailgate.

Another new segment-first innovation for the 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 is a pair of "store in the floor" bins with removable liners that offer even more versatile storage — large enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice.

There are many other convenient storage locations throughout the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram including a large upper glove box, map pockets in door panels and a configurable center console. All in all, there are nearly twice as many storage locations (38) in the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram than were in the previous model.

Technically sophisticated, yet simple-to-navigate electronic and infotainment choices include MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with 30-gigabyte hard drive, navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system available in the Quad Cab and crew cab. Also available is first-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™ and segment-first surround-sound audio.

Other premium amenities include first-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats, available heated rear seats, first-for-Dodge heated steering wheel, one-touch up/down driver and passenger windows, automatic-on headlamps and dual-zone automatic temperature control — a first for Dodge Ram.

Craftsmanship

In addition to the exterior, the all-new interior of the 2009 Dodge Ram stands out with a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship expressed in premium interior appointments including six-ring instrumentation, redesigned controls, chrome accents, premium seating with improved bolsters and two-tone upholstery. An automatic-transmission floor shifter, incorporated into a configurable center console, is available for the first time in a Dodge Ram. All 2009 Dodge Ram interiors are significantly upgraded with "soft-touch" materials that feature industry-first two-tone technology and premium fit and finish. Full-width contrasting stitching is offered on soft-touch instrument panels for Sport and Laramie models.

On the exterior, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram features a redesigned aluminum hood with a large power bulge and a forward-canted grille, imparting a "head down, ready to charge" attitude, while front and rear bumpers wrap around each body side. The rear bumper on HEMI-equipped models is radiused over chromed dual exhaust tips – a first in light-duty pickups. Attractive 20-inch wheels are available in three styles. Sills are pulled down to cover frame rails for a premium appearance. Badges are three-dimensional, rather than decals, and are designed to stand out. The sculpted Ram's-head badge on the tailgate is 250 percent larger than the previous badge.

Safety

On the safety and security front, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers more than 30 active and passive safety features, including standard front and rear side-curtain air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System, knee bolsters, seat-belt pre-tensioners, Anti-lock Brake System, BeltAlert® System, and Electronic Stability Control; and available adjustable pedals, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist and ParkView® Rear Back-up Camera.

All-new 2009 Dodge Ram Loaded With 35 New or Improved Features

Automatic Headlamps: All-new feature turns on headlamps at dusk and off in daylight without driver intervention. An automatic switch-off when the engine is stopped makes it unnecessary to operate the headlamp switch at any time

Bed Rail Caps: All-new top covers for cargo-box bed sides that reduce box marring and scratching

Center Console: All-new design features a first-for-Ram floor-mounted automatic transmission shifter with standard Electronic Range Select. The console also features deep dual map pockets, abundant upper and lower storage space in the new super-soft, oversized clamshell center armrest, multiple storage compartments around the gearshift lever and multiple power outlets available for electronic devices

Center, High-Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL)/Cargo Lamp: Enhanced use of lens projection has increased the "box lighting" functionality of the cargo lamp located with the CHMSL. The cargo lamp is activated by a separate on/off switch on the headlamp switch

Door Systems: Includes new door hardware modules, triple weatherstripping

• · Door Module: includes integrated wiring harness mounted on a molded polypropylene carrier, which also serves as a water shield for the interior trim. In addition, the shield's integrated foam seal completely seals the module to reduce traffic noise intrusion
   
• · Triple-seal WeatherStripping: Ensures effective sealing. The first weatherstrip is a lip around the outer periphery of each door in the greenhouse area that closes the gap to the door opening, optimizing sealing conditions for wind noise. The second is a full-circumference door-mounted outer weatherstrip seal against the body aperture. The third is a full-circumference body-mounted weatherstrip seal against the doors that prevents water from entering the vehicle's interior

Dual Headlamps: New headlamps feature high-efficiency, dual-filament halogen headlamp bulbs providing exceptional performance and producing more light per watt than traditional headlamps. A polycarbonate clear lens is impact-resistant for durability and long life. Dual-headlamp halogen bulbs feature an average service life of 3,000 hours and are inexpensive to replace

Electronic Stability Program (ESP): System helps drivers maintain vehicle directional stability by applying selective braking and engine control – within the limits of available traction – to keep the vehicle's intended course. This occurs whether the vehicle is turning too rapidly (oversteering) or not rapidly enough (understeering). System includes Hill Start Assist, Brake Assist and Trailer Sway Control

• · Hill Start Assist (HSA): Assists the driver in launching a vehicle on an incline. This feature is particularly helpful for vehicles equipped with manual transmissions, driving off-road, and while towing. HSA will maintain the level of brake pressure the driver inputs for a short duration once the driver takes his foot off of the brake pedal
   
• · Brake Assist: Overcomes the tendency of not applying the brakes hard enough in an emergency by using the ESP system to instantly apply the maximum available pressure to the brake
   
• · Trailer Sway Control (TSC): Recognizes a swaying trailer and applies individual wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to eliminate the trailer sway

Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC): Redesigned controls now mounted on steering wheel. Functions include compass, outside temperature, average fuel economy, distance to empty (DTE), trip elapsed time and various system setting options

Exhaust: All-new chrome-tipped dual exhaust for 5.7-liter HEMI® vehicles, with radiused cutouts integrated into rear bumper

Express Up/down Windows: Offered for the first time on a Ram, this feature raises and lowers driver and passenger windows with one touch (Quad Cab and Ram Crew 1500)

Exterior Mirrors: Includes new turn signal lamps and puddle lamps integrated into outside mirror housing (not available on ST), new memory function (Laramie only), new body-color finish (Sport only) and new chrome finish (Laramie only). Power and heat functions also available, depending on trim level

Fog Lamps: New design has halogen bulbs that distribute light through ultraviolet- and abrasion-resistant, coated polycarbonate lenses. High-efficiency halogen bulbs provide excellent road coverage, with a low wide-beam that illuminates the area immediately ahead of the truck

Front Console: All-new floor console with optional automatic floor-shift lever, available satin silver and grained finish, dual map pockets with separate storage capabilities, abundant upper and lower clamshell storage, multiple storage compartments around gear shift lever, and power outlets

Glove Boxes: An upper glove box provides 391 cubic inches of storage capacity, and combined with the lower glove box volume of 426 cubic inches, provides best-in-class glove-box volume

Heated Steering Wheel: All-new feature on the three-spoke steering wheel activated either by a switch on the lower switch bank or by the remote start function. When the temperature attains a preset level, the heat function shuts off. Steering wheel is available with urethane or leather-grip surface, also includes controls for the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) and radio. The steering-wheel column features tilt capability with 10 positions

HEMI®: New 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque while delivering better fuel economy (an estimated 4 percent), improved idle quality and overall refinement, along with more horsepower (10 percent) and torque (8 percent). Technologies include Variable Valve Timing (VVT), expanded Multi Displacement System (MDS) operating range, increased compression ratio, an active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short runners for high-rpm power, improved cylinder head port flow efficiency, and reduced restriction exhaust and induction systems

HVAC: Available all-new dual-zone automatic temperature control allows the driver and front passenger to achieve maximum comfort without adjusting control settings. The system provides set-and-forget operation for optimum comfort and convenience and may also be controlled manually

In-floor Storage: All-new flexible in-floor storage in crew cab models allows customers to conveniently store items in unobtrusive floor compartments. Two bins (one on each floor side) with removable liners are 8 inches x 13.25 inches x 5 inches. Each can hold ten 12-ounce cans plus ice. Bins are located in the floor pan underneath the rear passengers' feet, and do not intrude on rear-seat leg room

Interior Trim: All-new, model-distinct interior trim includes available chrome trim and upper door map pockets; standard soft door bolster and armrest, large door speaker grilles, built-in garment hangers and assist handles. The Laramie interior features a full-width contrasting stitch on its soft instrument panel, chrome trim throughout, unique color combinations and wood-grain inserts on each door and the center instrument-panel stack. All Rams (with the exception of the new Sport model) feature a unique industry-first two-tone technology, creating an inspired interior at all trim levels. The Sport features an all-dark-slate interior with stunning gray contrasting stitching on the instrument panel and seats

Instrument Panel: All-new upper and lower glove boxes combined provide best-in-class glove box storage; all-new gauge cluster face; dashboard composed of Thermo-Plastic Olefin top panel and PC-ABS plastic retainers that are recyclable and environmentally friendly; soft upper panel with stitching (Laramie and Sport models); two large airflow registers in the center stack and two at the outboard ends of the panel deliver air flow for rapid interior cooling and heating; all exposed portions of the instrument panel attach to the inner structure with hidden fasteners

Memory System: All-new programmable memory switches store and recall personal settings for up to two drivers. Memory settings include power outside mirrors, driver seat (cushion, lumbar, seat back, fore/aft), adjustable pedals and radio control presets

Multi-link Coil-spring Rear Suspension: All-new design reduces friction in the spring system and weighs 40 lbs. less than a comparable leaf spring design. Coil springs help centralize and absorb any bump or road impact and enhance ride and comfort. New, balanced front and rear spring rates maintain a level ride in the fully loaded condition and when unloaded

Power Adjustable Pedals: With all-new memory feature, this function allows drivers to set a comfortable position relative to both steering wheel and pedals

Powertrain Control Module (PCM): Redesigned for 2009, provides integrated electronic control of all engine and automatic transmission functions. Includes Smart Start control, which prevents starter operation if the engine is running, and automatically disengages the starter when the engine reaches operating speed to prevent excessive starter overrun

Quad Headlamps: New headlamps feature high-efficiency, single-filament halogen headlamp bulbs providing exceptional performance and producing more light per watt than traditional headlamps. During high-beam operation, the Quad headlamps provide a "four-bulb burn," which allows all four headlamp bulbs to light at once, thereby significantly increasing lighting capability. A polycarbonate clear lens is impact-resistant for durability and long life. Quad headlamp halogen bulbs feature an average service life of 1,000 hours and are inexpensive to replace

Radios: Four new radios, all with a contemporary surface-mounted appearance:

• · AM/FM Stereo With Single-disc CD Player and MP3: Features decompression for MP3 and WMA formats and an improved vacuum-fluorescent dot matrix display that includes icons. Time and radio frequency may be displayed together. In CD mode, CD tracks may be played randomly or in numerical order. Satellite Digital Audio Radio (SDAR) capability is also available
   
• · AM/FM Stereo With Six-disc CD/DVD Changer and MP3: Has DVD-audio capability in addition to playing CDs and discs with MP3 and WMA file formats. DVD video and audio discs are played in stereo. Features automatic slot-in, power-loading, six-disc internal changer. A changer loaded with MP3 discs provides music for thousands of miles of driving without ever listening to the same track twice
   
• · AM/FM Stereo With DVD Changer, HDD and MP3: Features a 6.5-inch thin film transfer display with a touch-screen panel. The motorized screen flips down to accept a disc for playing or downloading music or data onto the hard disc drive. Touch-screen buttons are menu- and mode-driven for easy operation. 30-gigabyte hard disc drive for downloading CD audio from the DVD drive onto the hard drive in compressed format, either MP3 or WMA file formats. Radio has the capability of recording from AM, FM, satellite, DVD drive, auxiliary input, phone and microphone. Universal Serial Bus (USB) on lower right of radio for downloading files onto the hard drive. Music jukebox feature is similar to a virtual disc changer, which allows up to 9 gigabytes of music (about 10 CDs) and pictures to be stored on the hard drive. Voice memos may be recorded using the microphone integrated into rearview mirror
   
• · AM/FM Stereo With DVD Changer, Navigation and MP3: 20-gigabyte hard disc drive for ripping CD audio from the DVD drive onto the hard drive in compressed format, either MP3 or WMA file formats. Radio has the capability of recording from AM, FM, satellite, DVD drive, auxiliary input, phone and microphone. USB on lower right of radio for downloading files onto the hard drive. Music jukebox feature similar to a virtual disc changer, which allows up to 9 gigabytes of music (about 10 CDs) and pictures to be stored on the hard drive. Navigation system uses the Bluetooth microphone in the rearview mirror

RamBox Storage System: All-new segment-first system includes three elements: highly functional storage and organizational bins with a total of 8.6 cubic feet of volume featuring lockable lids, lighting and drains mounted on both bed sides; a stowable bed divider that create separation between elements of the payload and unfolds to become a bed extender that creates additional cargo capacity; and a cargo rail system with adjustable cleats

Rear Bumper: The longest wraparound rear bumper in its class; includes standard 7-pin trailer connector

Rear Frame: All-new design for rear axle attachment brackets and coil-spring perches for the new multi-link coil-spring suspension

Seats: All-new designs and materials, with features including industry-first heated and ventilated seats covered in YES® Essentials stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric or improved leather. Seats have fully redesigned frame and trim, plus improved seat bolsters for maximum comfort, unique seat stitching, full power with memory and dual map pockets. Also new for 2009 is the addition of rear heated seats available on the all-new crew cab

Spare Tire: New 17-inch full-size spare

SIRIUS Backseat TV™: A segment first, it offers three channels of children's programming, commercial-free 24 hours a day. Can play satellite streaming video and audio at the same time

Tailgate: All-new, one-piece, fold-over stamping with new lift-assist that releases tension created when the tailgate is lowered to help raise it for closing

Taillamps: New two-bulb units use optic-less acrylic lenses with optical reflectors to distribute light. The dual-filament upper bulb provides stop lamp, turn signal, taillamp, and side-marker lamp functions. The lower bulb provides the backup lamp function in the lower half of the lens

Trailer Hitch: Redesigned Class IV trailer hitch attachment to frame

Wheels: New stylish wheels in steel, chrome-clad and aluminum available in 17-inch and 20-inch diameters in several different styles

Wireless Ignition Node (WIN): All-new module mounts on the instrument panel to the right of the steering column and replaces the conventional key cylinder mounted on the steering column of the previous model

Manufacturing

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram will be built in two locations: Quad Cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the Warren (Mich.) Assembly Plant, and regular cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the St. Louis North Assembly Plan in Fenton, Mo.

Dodge Brand

With a U.S. market share of 6.4 percent, Dodge is Chrysler LLC's best-selling brand and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2007, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has a 15 percent market share. Last year, Dodge introduced the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan with 35 new or improved features including the newest innovation, the Swivel 'n Go™ seating system. Dodge is entering key European volume segments with Nitro, Caliber and Avenger. The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey will debut this year, and will be available outside North America in both left- and right-hand drive in mid-2008. Later this year, Dodge will introduce its modern muscle car, the all-new Dodge Challenger. For the 2010 model year, Dodge will offer the all-new Dodge Ram with an advanced two-mode hybrid system.