Ypsilanti, Michigan — The first new model to be rolled out by Chrysler after its restructuring is a really big truck — the 2010 Dodge Ram 2500/3500.
The current social-economic climate would seem to dictate that automakers should concentrate on the other end of the vehicle spectrum, like maybe small cars and/or electric and hybrid cars.
But automakers are tied to engineering timetables set years ago. The Dodge Ram light duty pickups were introduced in their all-new generation versions nearly 2 years ago, and their big brothers were simply next in line to get some engineering love.
There is a silver lining here, however, as noted by Chrysler Canada vice-president of marketing, Ed Broadbear: “If you need a heavy duty pickup you’ll buy one.”
The HD Tribe
Chrysler Canada also noted that the heavy-duty truck driver doesn’t see himself as a “light duty guy,” which is why the new styling is different than the 1500 trucks. The 2500/3500 trucks have more pronounced “big rig” styling, characterized by a massive grille and full chrome lower bumper (made in one big, and loud, stamping). Also new are an aerodynamic steel hood (with war-paint like impressions), and dual headlights and sculpted mirrors.
The 3500 Dually model also get new front and rear fenders. Those rear fenders are entirely made of steel, versus the usual dually practice of incorporating plastic fender flares. The chief Dodge designer, Joe Dehner, told us that making that deep and large fender in a one-piece stamping was a huge production challenge, but crucial to the new, sleek look they were seeking.
New Crew Cab model
Because HD tribe members tend to travel in packs, Chrysler reworked the cabs for more space, storage and comfort.
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| The 3500 Dually model also get new front and rear fenders. |
The current social-economic climate would seem to dictate that automakers should concentrate on the other end of the vehicle spectrum, like maybe small cars and/or electric and hybrid cars.
But automakers are tied to engineering timetables set years ago. The Dodge Ram light duty pickups were introduced in their all-new generation versions nearly 2 years ago, and their big brothers were simply next in line to get some engineering love.
There is a silver lining here, however, as noted by Chrysler Canada vice-president of marketing, Ed Broadbear: “If you need a heavy duty pickup you’ll buy one.”
The HD Tribe
Chrysler Canada also noted that the heavy-duty truck driver doesn’t see himself as a “light duty guy,” which is why the new styling is different than the 1500 trucks. The 2500/3500 trucks have more pronounced “big rig” styling, characterized by a massive grille and full chrome lower bumper (made in one big, and loud, stamping). Also new are an aerodynamic steel hood (with war-paint like impressions), and dual headlights and sculpted mirrors.
The 3500 Dually model also get new front and rear fenders. Those rear fenders are entirely made of steel, versus the usual dually practice of incorporating plastic fender flares. The chief Dodge designer, Joe Dehner, told us that making that deep and large fender in a one-piece stamping was a huge production challenge, but crucial to the new, sleek look they were seeking.
New Crew Cab model
Because HD tribe members tend to travel in packs, Chrysler reworked the cabs for more space, storage and comfort.
 |
| New creature comforts include heated steering wheel and optional front seats with heat and ventilation. |