Next-Gen Ram 1500 to Use Mild Hybrid System
The Ram 1500 is going to offer a mild hybrid powertrain in the near future.
The brand confirmed the news in an update to its 2014-2018 business plan. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is turning heavily to hybrids to meet strict government fuel economy and CO2 regulations, and the Ram 1500 will get a mild hybrid system to help it burn less fuel.
This hybrid version of the 1500 will arrive around 2018 when the truck is redesigned. It will also come with “next-gen powertrains,” though FCA did not elaborate on that. It is likely to get an updated version of the 3.6-liter V6 and HEMI V8 that it already has, while the Ram diesel was not mentioned in the presentation.
SEE ALSO: 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel Review
Along with other vehicles in the FCA lineup, the 1500 will also shed weight thanks to high-strength steel and other new materials.
FCA is pumping up Ram production to help meet high demand, a trend started by falling gas prices. As of right now, FCA predicts that fuel prices will stay low, so they are leaning heavily on their pickup trucks and SUVs for profits.
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Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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