A Ram Truck exec says at the Chicago Auto Show today that it continues to build the best pickups, which may come as news for Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado fans. Since its formation as a separate brand in 2009, Ram has doubled truck market share by segmenting it into roughly four areas – commercial use; family trucks, luxury, and enthusiasts – and then investing heavily in them with fresh designs and technology.
To back up this bold “best” claim, Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand and Ram Brand, FCA – Global, says “Ram Power Wagon is an off-road, all-access pass, removing the limitations, instilling confidence and allowing owners to reach areas of recreation and lifestyle not attainable with any other pickup.”
Power Wagon joins the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel that delivers the industry’s best fuel economy at 29 miles per gallon (mpg). Ram’s Heavy Duty truck line owns best-in-class towing at 31,210 pounds and best-in-class torque at 900 lb.-ft., but Ram Truck – arguably – has held one title longer than any production pickup: the most off-road-capable. The 2017 Ram Power Wagon receives all-new exterior and interior design elements to match its aggressive behavior and off-road biased lifestyle.
For 2017, Power Wagon will top a an off-road line of trucks that includes Rebel and the 4×4 Off-road Package and supporting the Ram brand’s claim to being the off-road truck leader.
Based on the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4×4 Crew Cab, the Power Wagon features a number of off-road-specific enhancements, including a unique suspension with more than two inches of lift, locking differentials and a 12,000-lb. winch, giving it an advantage over all production pickups, leaving aside the aftermarket.
The 2017 Ram Power Wagon engineering efforts claims a best-in-class 410 horsepower from a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine.
“Dating back to 1945, the Ram Power Wagon’s heritage holds a distinctive position in the Ram Truck lineup as an example of engineering innovation and off-road capability,” said Rob Wichman, Director – Ram Truck Engineering.
The 2017 Power Wagon includes an optional backup camera in the tailgate, providing a better field of vision when maneuvering. Also optional is Ram’s exclusive cargo-view camera. This unique view allows owners to monitor bed loads without turning around. A touch screen toggles your choice on the Uconnect 8.4, alternating the view from tailgate to truck bed. Additionally, a new optional tri-fold tonneau cover is embossed with the Ram logo.
The Power Wagon was initially produced from 1945 through 1980. Early trucks were based on the Weapons Carrier (WC) series of Dodge ¾-ton military-use trucks built during World War II. The Power Wagon went on to become a well-known civilian vehicle. The namesake truck was reintroduced in 2005 and now exists as an independent model in the Ram Truck lineup.
