History of the RAM brand: from Dodge to an independent path

Many car enthusiasts are still confused RAM with Dodge, and this is not surprising. Before 2009 pickups RAM were produced precisely under the Dodge brand - as part of the line of commercial vehicles of the American concern Chrysler. However, after rebranding the brand RAM Trucks became an independent division specializing exclusively in trucks and pickups.

Today RAM is a separate brand within a transnational automaker Stellantis (formed in 2021 after the merger Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group). Despite the separation from Dodge, both brands continue to use common platforms and technologies, which sometimes misleads customers. For example, legendary Dodge Ram (1981–2009) and modern RAM 1500 — these are two different cars, albeit with common DNA.

Main Pickup Plant RAM located in Sterling Heights (Michigan, USA), but assembly is also carried out in other countries - from Mexico to Canada. This allows the brand to flexibly respond to demand in different regions, including adaptation to local safety and environmental standards.

Who owns the RAM brand today?

From 2021 the brand RAM belongs to the concern Stellantis N.V. - the fourth largest automaker in the world. The company's portfolio also includes brands such as Jeep, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Peugeot and Citroën. However RAM remains the only brand in the group specializing exclusively in pickup trucks and commercial vehicles.

It is important to understand that Stellantis not just "owns" RAM, and is actively developing it as a global brand. For example, from 2023 pickup trucks RAM 1500 officially sold in Europe (unlike Dodge, which left the market in 2011). However, in some countries, such as Mexico, RAM still positioned as part of the line Dodge - This is a marketing ploy to simplify the perception of local buyers.

📊 How do you feel about RAM rebranding from Dodge?
Positive - the brand has become independent
Negative - confused with Dodge
Doesn't matter
Didn't know it was a Dodge

Where RAM cars are assembled: factories and production geography

Pickup truck production RAM distributed across several plants, which allows you to optimize logistics and reduce costs. Main production facilities:

  • 🏭 Sterling Heights, Michigan (USA) - the main plant where they collect RAM 1500 Classic and heavy models RAM 2500/3500.
  • 🏭 Warren, Michigan (USA) - they produce here RAM 1500 DT (new generation) and hybrid versions.
  • 🏭 Saltillo, Mexico - assembly RAM 1500 for the North American market and export to Latin America.
  • 🏭 Brampton, Ontario (Canada) - release RAM Promaster (vans at base Fiat Ducato).

Interesting fact: despite their American origin, some models RAM for the European market assembled in Italy (Atella plant) on platform Fiat Fullback. This is due to customs duties and EU CO₂ emissions requirements.

Why is the RAM 1500 more expensive in Europe than in the US?

The price of pickup trucks in Europe includes high import duties (up to 22%), adaptation to local regulations (for example, daytime running lights) and logistics costs. In addition, in the United States, demand for pickup trucks is higher, which allows the brand to save on production scale.

Model Assembly location Main market Features
RAM 1500 Classic Sterling Heights, USA North America Simplified version for fleet customers
RAM 1500 DT Warren, USA Worldwide (including Europe) New generation with hybrid powertrain
RAM 2500/3500 Sterling Heights, USA USA, Canada, Middle East Heavy pickup trucks with diesel Cummins 6.7L
RAM Promaster Brampton, Canada North America Van at base Fiat Ducato

Differences between RAM and Dodge: why are they different brands?

After separation in 2009 RAM and Dodge went different ways, although they remained in the same concern. Main differences:

  1. Specialization: RAM focuses on pickup trucks and commercial vehicles, and Dodge - on passenger cars and muscle cars (for example, Charger and Challenger).
  2. Design: Pickups RAM received their own style - a massive radiator grille in the shape of a “cross” and branded RAM>-logos on the body. Dodge it retained the aggressive “evil” design with LED stripes.
  3. Technical base: Modern RAM built on a platform DT, whereas Dodge uses LA (for sedans) and LX (for muscle cars).

An important nuance: despite the separation, some spare parts (for example, transmissions or electronics) RAM and Dodge still borrow from each other. This applies to models released before 2018.

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When buying a used pickup truck Dodge Ram (until 2009) check the compatibility of spare parts with modern RAM — many parts are not interchangeable due to changes in fasteners and connectors.

Ruler RAM includes models for different tasks - from urban pickups to heavy trucks for construction companies. The most popular:

  • 🚛 RAM 1500 — flagship half-ton truck with petrol (HEMI V8 5.7L) and diesel (EcoDiesel V6 3.0L) engines. In 2026 received a hybrid version eTorque.
  • 🏗️ RAM 2500/3500 — heavy pickups with a load capacity of up to 3.5 tons and diesel Cummins 6.7L (up to 420 hp). Popular among farmers and builders.
  • 📦 RAM Promaster - van at base Fiat Ducato, offered in three sizes (1500, 2500, 3500). It is equipped with front-wheel drive, which is atypical for commercial vehicles.
  • 🔌 RAM 1500 Revolution (2026) - the brand’s first electric pickup truck with a range 500+ km and fast charging 800V.

In Russia they are officially sold only RAM 1500 (via parallel import), whereas Promaster and heavy models 2500/3500 supplied to order. Prices start from 5.5 million rubles for the basic version.

☑️ What to check when buying used RAM?

Done: 0 / 4

How much does RAM cost in 2026: prices and options

Cost of new pickups RAM varies depending on the market, configuration and exchange rate. Current prices for Russia (including parallel imports):

Model Base price (RF) Top equipment What is included in the "maximum"
RAM 1500 Classic from 5,200,000 ₽ Limited (~8 500 000 ₽) Leather interior, system Uconnect 12", adaptive cruise
RAM 1500 DT from 6,800,000 ₽ TRX (~12 000 000 ₽) Engine Hellcat V8 6.2L (702 hp), air suspension
RAM 2500 from 7,500,000 ₽ Power Wagon (~10 000 000 ₽) Differential locks, winch, reinforced suspension

On the secondary market, prices start from 3 million rubles for RAM 1500 2018–2020 release. However, it is worth considering that spare parts and maintenance are more expensive than Japanese or Korean pickups (for example, Toyota Hilux or Isuzu D-Max).

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase RAM via parallel import check availability OTSC certificate (vehicle type approval). Without it, the car cannot be registered with the traffic police.

Pros and Cons of RAM Cars: An Honest Review

Pickups RAM They are popular due to their combination of American power and modern technology, but they also have their weaknesses.

Benefits:

  • ✅ Spacious salon — one of the most comfortable in the class (especially in the version Crew Cab).
  • ✅ Powerful engines: diesel Cummins and gasoline HEMI known for reliability and resource.
  • ✅ Technologies: system Uconnect with support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, adaptive cruise, all-round cameras.
  • ✅ Load capacity: to 3,500 kg at RAM 3500 (with the correct equipment).

Disadvantages:

  • ❌ High fuel consumption: HEMI V8 consumes 15–18 l/100 km in a mixed cycle.
  • ❌ Expensive service: original spare parts (for example, turbine for Cummins) can cost as much as a used car.
  • ❌ Weak corrosion resistance: the frame and sills require anti-corrosion treatment after 2-3 years of operation.
  • ❌ Low maneuverability: dimensions RAM 1500 (length 5.8 m) make parking in the city difficult.
⚠️ Attention: Owners RAM 1500 with the system eTorque complain about problems with the battery after 3-4 years of use. Replacement costs 80 000–120 000 ₽.
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RAM is suitable for those who value comfort, power and status, but are willing to put up with high fuel and maintenance costs. For daily city use, it is better to consider compact pickup trucks (for example, Ford Maverick).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the RAM brand

Is it possible to register a RAM brought from the USA with the traffic police?

Yes, but only if available OTSC certificate (vehicle type approval). Without it, the car will not pass customs. It will also require adaptation to Russian standards (for example, installation of daytime running lights). Cost of legalization – from 500 000 ₽.

How is the RAM 1500 Classic different from the regular RAM 1500?

RAM 1500 Classic is a simplified version of the previous generation (2009–2018), which is produced in parallel with the new model RAM 1500 DT (since 2019). Main differences:

  • Outdated platform and design.
  • No hybrid system eTorque.
  • Lower price (at 1–1.5 million ₽ cheaper than the new version).
Which engine is more reliable: HEMI V8 or EcoDiesel V6?

Both engines have their advantages:

  • HEMI V8 5.7L — easier to maintain, lifespan up to 500,000 km, but consumes a lot of fuel.
  • EcoDiesel V6 3.0L - more economical (consumption 9–11 l/100 km), but is sensitive to diesel quality and requires regular replacement of the particulate filter (DPF).

For Russia recommended HEMI due to problems with the quality of diesel fuel.

Where can RAM be serviced in Russia?

Official dealers RAM not in Russia, but there are service centers specializing in American cars:

  • Moscow: American Car Service, USA Auto.
  • St. Petersburg: US Car Clinic.
  • Regions: look for workshops with experience working with Dodge/Chrysler.

Maintenance cost - from 20 000 ₽ (changing oil and filters).

Will the electric RAM 1500 Revolution be officially sold in Russia?

There are no confirmed plans for official deliveries yet RAM 1500 Revolution (2026) to Russia. However, the car can be imported through parallel import after the start of sales in Europe (approximately the end of 2026). Approximate price - from 10 million rubles.