Ram 1500 Coming To Australia Priced From $80,000

[whitels1ss]

American ute manufacturer RAM has launched a fresh, V8-powered tilt at the Australian utility market: the RAM 1500.

Launched in Sydney today ahead of its official on-sale date of July 1, the 1500 joins the existing RAM 2500 and takes aim at the highly competitive dual cab ute segment. It is priced from $79,500 drive away – making it the most expensive vehicle in the bourgeoning ‘premium’ utility segment, according to RAM.

Shorter, lower and lighter than the existing RAM 2500 utility, the 1500 tips the scales at 2420kg. It measures 5816mm long, 1924mm high – slightly bigger than the Ford Ranger, Volkswagen Amarok and Mercedes-Benz X-Class, Toyota HiLux and Holden Colorado that it will compete directly against.

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The 1500 will be available in two different grades: the Express and the Laramie. Both will be fitted with the same petrol-powered 5.7-litre V8 Hemi engine.

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The entry model Express ($79,500 drive away) features 20-inch wheels wearing Hankook tyres, side steps, fog lamps, 5-inch touchscreen with reversing camera and a spray-in bed liner. The Express is pitched primarily at load carriers, with a cloth interior and large load area measuring 1.93cm metres long and nearly 1.3 metres wide.

The Express offers a braked towing capacity of 4.5 tonnes – almost one tonne more than the regular dual cab ute set – and 912kg payload.

The Laramie version is priced from $99,950 plus on-road costs and adopts a decidedly more premium bent. Standard features include larger side steps, chrome accents and wheels, heated and ventilated leather seats, partial digital instrument cluster and larger 8.4-inch centre touchscreen.

It makes do with a slightly smaller load space area and smaller payload of 850kg, along with a reduced braked towing capacity of either 3500kg or 4500kg depending on axle ratio.

Another significant point of difference is what resides under the bonnet.

The 1500 range employs a 5.7-litre V8 Hemi engine offering 291kW and 556Nm of torque, paired as standard with an eight-speed automatic. Variable valve control and cylinder de-activation help the 1500 achieve a combined fuel consumption rating of 12.2L/100km on regular variants (9.9L/100km on variants fitted with a 3.21 axle ratio).

It is hoped the 1500 will eventually make up 10 per cent of overall sales for dual cab utes priced above $57,000 – deemed by distributors as the ‘premium’ utility segment.

RAM Trucks Australia general manager Alex Stewart was bullish about the 1500’s sales potential.

“We are the only factory-authorised right-hand drive manufacturer of RAM utes in the world and we are the only factory-authorised importer and distributor for Australia,” he said.

“With our class-leading capabilities, we’re going to shake up this segment. The 1500 range will sit at the premium end of the 4×4 dual cab pick-up segment … priced upwards of $57,000.”

Stakeholders are targeting 2100 sales in the first full year in Australia, and up to 4500 units by the third year of sales. In all, they’re forecasting a 10 per cent market share of the 4×4 dual cab segment priced upwards of $57,000.

Helping their cause, a 3.0-litre V6 diesel version of the 1500 will be introduced later in the year, along with a separate ‘Black Pack’ version. The diesel will be offered at a premium over the existing petrol, according to stakeholders, doing away any hope of a cheaper entry point.

The RAM 1500 will be backed by a three-year, unlimited kilometre warranty in Australia, while servicing intervals will be spaced every 12 months and 12,000km.

RAM Australia national product manager, Lenn Kench, said each 1500 is designated as Australia-bound from the factory in the US, and underwent an extensive right-hand drive conversion process before in Melbourne before reaching Australian roads



The conversion process includes installation of a new metric dashboard and adoption of Australian software for the car’s UConnect infotainment system.

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“It is built for Australia,” said Lenn Kench, RAM Australia’s national product manager. 7.30mins

“We work closely with engineers in Melbourne to get the re-manufacturing process right. We’ve also homologated the car to meet all Australian ADRs and come in under full volume import approval. It’s been a long process but I’m pleased to have both vehicles here today.”

The 1500 goes without modern driver aids including automated emergency braking, now available in rivalling models including the Mercedes-Benz X-Class and soon the Ford Ranger. It does boast functions such as trailer brake control and trailer sway control.

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https://www.motoring.com.au/ram-1500-priced-from-80k-113112/

I think that they should sell quite a few of these if those prices are correct.

[zorro]

Wouldn’t touch a petrol one of these even if it was sub 20k

[white lie]

Wouldn’t touch a petrol one of these even if it was sub 20kWhat's the reasoning for that?
They're a popular "truck" in the states, can't say I've heard too many bad things about the Rams. I think with an 80k price point, they'll shift a few of these things

[whitels1ss]

What's the reasoning for that?
They're a popular "truck" in the states, can't say I've heard too many bad things about the Rams. I think with an 80k price point, they'll shift a few of these things

If I needed something big in a dual cab to tow with
I would certainly consider one of these before I would look at any of the other dual cabs available that I can think of on the Australian market at the moment.

At least it would sound better for starters. :lol:

[C4B]

I've just come back from the States and I was lucky enough to fang a 2018 RAM1500 around for a few days in Seattle.

The Good News: They are big, look tough as nails and have a tray so big it needs its own Postcode.

The Bad News: The ride quality is rubbish, especially on the highway. When you hit bumps you can feel the chassis flexing and it bounces around something shocking. I'm sure with half a tonne in the back it probably feels a lot nicer, but it's a pretty a terrible ride on everything but billiard table smooth roads.

The nail in the coffin of any of the big US utes (RAM,F150,Silverado etc.) is their size. Over in the US the car parks are long and wide so you can park these without issue. Try and park them at a local shopping centre in Australia and you're going to be doing a lot of walking because you'll be parking miles away to find enough space.

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=5370&stc=1
Notice even with an F150 and my RAM1500 there is still heaps of space in the car park.

[C4B]

I should mention that I have wanted to get a Dodge RAM for years. I've driven the F150 over the States previously but always liked the look of the Dodge better.

Having driven one now I definitely wouldn't buy one for $80k. If they were dirt cheap I'd still get one, but they're just too unrefined to be paying a premium over other utes sold in Australia.

[Micks]

Been to the US quite a few yrs ago now & was surprised how many ute/pickup options were available to them!
On the other side we only have a choice between Jap utes or garbage from China nothing with a V8 anyhow :rofl:

[whitels1ss]

Reminds me of when the 1 tonner packs came out in the Falcon utes,

the normal, lesser load rated utes mere much nicer to ride in. :yup:

[whitels1ss]

Been to the US quite a few yrs ago now & was surprised how many ute/pickup options were available to them!
On the other side we only have a choice between Jap utes or garbage from China nothing with a V8 anyhow :rofl:

HSV is bringing out the Colarado soon but I am guessing they are going to be heaps more expensive.

https://www.hsv.com.au/hsv/2017/see/silverado/

Great looking thing, bigger, more powerful..... I wonder what these will cost?

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[Micks]

Reminds me of when the 1 tonner packs came out in the Falcon utes,

the normal, lesser load rated utes mere much nicer to ride in. :yup:

Yes mate, back in 04 when I bought my 1st LS1 Tonner couldn't believe how nice it was to drive compared to the things I drove previously it was actually like a sedan in comfort/ride :yup:

[C4B]

HSV is bringing out the Colarado soon but I am guessing they are going to be heaps more expensive.

https://www.hsv.com.au/hsv/2017/see/silverado/

Great looking thing, bigger, more powerful..... I wonder what these will cost?

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=5371&stc=1

YES it is being towed by the motor home!

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=5372&stc=1

[whitels1ss]

That's a bit bigger than the Suzuki Vitaras we often see getting towed by motor homes around here!:lol:

[Micks]

I was flabbergasted by the Nissan V8 pickups when I were there :drool:

[Pickles]

So, Walkinshaw, or American Vehicles, or whatever his Ram conversion company is called, will convert these 1500 Rams as well?
Silverado will be around $120K I think, but it's pretty well specced.
Pickles.

[Souljah]

I second the car parking comment. It's hard enough parking a VY Wagon in many of the work car parks i go to let alone trying to manoeuvre a ranger in them.

And 120k for a crew cab? No chance.

[zorro]

What's the reasoning for that?
They're a popular "truck" in the states, can't say I've heard too many bad things about the Rams. I think with an 80k price point, they'll shift a few of these things

The new VM 3.0 diesel is supposed to be a ripper motor whether it’s offered here or not down the track who knows.

I guess at 80k for an average ‘truck’ you aren’t going to be too worried about throwing $200 of fuel a week at it.

[whitels1ss]

The new VM 3.0 diesel is supposed to be a ripper motor whether it’s offered here or not down the track who knows.

I guess at 80k for an average ‘truck’ you aren’t going to be too worried about throwing $200 of fuel a week at it.

Yes it's coming later in the year as was stated in the original post. :cheers:

[C4B]

I was flabbergasted by the Nissan V8 pickups when I were there :drool:

Yes, the Nissan Titan. They're nowhere near as common as the F trucks and RAM's but still pretty massive.

I wish they'd import the Toyota Tundra, probably my favourite of the US trucks.

[Micks]

So, Walkinshaw, or American Vehicles, or whatever his Ram conversion company is called, will convert these 1500 Rams as well?
Silverado will be around $120K I think, but it's pretty well specced.
Pickles.

Thats not bad as a company here in Aus want $90K to convert my VF2 SSV ute to a tonner!! plus the cost of the ute which was $50K!!

[Wonky]

Thats not bad as a company here in Aus want $90K to convert my VF2 SSV ute to a tonner!! plus the cost of the ute which was $50K!!

:shock: :lmao: :shock: :lmao: :shock: :lmao: (couldn't decide which was more appropriate). :D

[SASLS1]

I saw 2 Brand New HSV Chev Silverado's on the back of a truck heading towards Geelong around 11.15pm at the Ring Road / Westgate Fwy interchange...

I checked the HSV facebook page.

HSV Said yesterday... " They're arriving at Dealerships now. Chat to your local for their ETA "...

[Micks]

:shock: :lmao: :shock: :lmao: :shock: :lmao: (couldn't decide which was more appropriate). :D

I was too! Half of that would be fair!

[Pickles]

I saw 2 Brand New HSV Chev Silverado's on the back of a truck heading towards Geelong around 11.15pm at the Ring Road / Westgate Fwy interchange...

I checked the HSV facebook page.

HSV Said yesterday... " They're arriving at Dealerships now. Chat to your local for their ETA "...






Dealers have been hanging out for these, a MASSIVE machine in more ways than one.
The only problem Dealers will have with these is fitting one into their showroom!
If ya haven't seen one "up close & personal", then I suggest ya check one out, they are pretty impressive.
Pickles.

[csv rulz]

My brother went and had a look at a new Silverado last weekend. He was very impressed. Although didnt realise how big they were. He said it felt about double the size of his Colorado

[zorro]

Yes, the Nissan Titan. They're nowhere near as common as the F trucks and RAM's but still pretty massive.

I wish they'd import the Toyota Tundra, probably my favourite of the US trucks.

A few tundra’s wheeling around Melbourne, I’d hate to think how many tanks of fuel they need a week though.

[SASLS1]

Nissan needs to turn their 2016 Nissan TITAN Warrior Concept.... into Production...


"PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES

The 2016 TITAN® XD — with its Cummins® 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel — upped the ante in the extra-duty pickup class. Now, the TITAN Warrior Concept ups it again. With an unapologetically aggressive look, uncompromising off-road components, and inspiration taken directly from Nissan’s off-road racing heritage, the TITAN Warrior Concept takes the production version of the TITAN XD to its extreme.

A WARRIOR WITH A “MODERN ARMOR” EXTERIOR

Our designers called this new look “modern armor”. It’s got a stealthy, robotic quality and machine-like, sharp edges. The headlights have some menace to them, the fenders have been beefed up, and functional hood vents are there to cool the Cummins® Turbo Diesel. Up front, a burly skidplate is integrated into the grille and in back, a quad-tipped exhaust system not-so-quietly announces that the Warrior means business.

A POLISHED, PREMIUM SPORT INTERIOR

The TITAN Warrior Concept’s interior was built to handle the abuse that comes with serious off-roading, without compromising style or comfort. The seats are covered in a carbon-colored, high-strength fabric and trimmed with bold Magma Orange accents. Interior surface materials include carbon fiber, polished chrome, and leather with contrasting stitching, and the custom steering wheel is constructed out of a single block of aluminum.

PERFORMANCE UNLEASHED

The TITAN Warrior Concept is the extreme adventure version of the TITAN XD. It has the same fully-boxed ladder frame, Cummins® Turbo Diesel V8, and heavy-duty 6-speed Aisin transmission, but this one has a full custom off-road suspension. Up front it's got custom upper and lower control arms with performance ball joints and tie-rod extensions, and racing-style shocks with custom reservoir mounts. In back it has custom shocks and reservoir mounts, a lengthened prototype axle, and a custom sway bar."



https://www.nissanusa.com/content/dam/Nissan/us/vehicles/FutureAndConcept/TitanWarrior/nissan-titan-warrior-concept.jpg.ximg.l_full_m.smart.jpg

https://www.nissanusa.com/content/dam/Nissan/us/vehicles/FutureAndConcept/TitanWarrior/nissan-titan-warrior-interior.jpg.ximg.l_full_m.smart.jpg

https://www.nissanusa.com/content/dam/Nissan/us/vehicles/FutureAndConcept/TitanWarrior/nissan-titan-warrior-concept-exhaust.jpg.ximg.l_full_m.smart.jpg



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9eBUs12ph8

[Xjas]

What I don't get is why American multinationals dump there domestic rubbish (or worse) on Australian consumers, call it a premium product, charge accordingly and then wonder why no one buys them! Seen it plenty of times, not just in the automotive industry, most Australians are smarter than that these days.

The Ram is a niche product that will appeal to a select group of fanboys and everyone else will see it for what it is IMHO.

[amckiwi]

Agree Xjay
I think they may have overestimated the market. Maybe they will build to order
There will be a market for the fan boi + the horse float people and maybe monster caravaners

[C4B]

What I don't get is why American multinationals dump there domestic rubbish (or worse) on Australian consumers, call it a premium product, charge accordingly and then wonder why no one buys them! Seen it plenty of times, not just in the automotive industry, most Australians are smarter than that these days.

The Ram is a niche product that will appeal to a select group of fanboys and everyone else will see it for what it is IMHO.

If I read correctly it's not Dodge importing them, it's a local crowd who are doing the conversions and selling them locally.

For a left hand drive conversion I'd say the pricing is pretty good @ $79k. Don't see too many conversions coming in under $100k even 20 years ago.

[C4B]

Agree Xjay
I think they may have overestimated the market. Maybe they will build to order
There will be a market for the fan boi + the horse float people and maybe monster caravaners


Kinda like this.....

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=5386&stc=1

[csv rulz]

If I read correctly it's not Dodge importing them, it's a local crowd who are doing the conversions and selling them locally.

For a left hand drive conversion I'd say the pricing is pretty good @ $79k. Don't see too many conversions coming in under $100k even 20 years ago.Guess that all depends on the quality of their conversion

[whitels1ss]

If I read correctly it's not Dodge importing them, it's a local crowd who are doing the conversions and selling them locally.

For a left hand drive conversion I'd say the pricing is pretty good @ $79k. Don't see too many conversions coming in under $100k even 20 years ago.

I honestly think they would be great for someone who likes taking a drag car interstate on a trailer.

[Xjas]

If I read correctly it's not Dodge importing them, it's a local crowd who are doing the conversions and selling them locally.

For a left hand drive conversion I'd say the pricing is pretty good @ $79k. Don't see too many conversions coming in under $100k even 20 years ago.

The first post in this thread refers to "American ute manufacture RAM", I took that as its back by or related to Dodge directly, if that's not the case its just another RHD converted pick up which is hardly news in my eyes, if that is the case I agree it isn't a bad price when you consider cost of vehicle plus cost of importation and conversion but when you compare it to other vehicles in its class for sale in Australia it doesn't stack up so well, its really only good value to people who are fanboys or specifically need a feature that only the Ram has.

[white lie]

They're converted by RAM Trucks Australia. Same mob that's been doing the bigger ones for years. They do have a deal with Dodge though, much like HSV do with Chevrolet as it states they're earmarked for Australia when they're on the production line. I'd imagine this allows them a better deal on pricing.

[Pickles]

They're converted by RAM Trucks Australia. Same mob that's been doing the bigger ones for years. They do have a deal with Dodge though, much like HSV do with Chevrolet as it states they're earmarked for Australia when they're on the production line. I'd imagine this allows them a better deal on pricing.
Yes,....Walkinshaw owned companies are doing both the Dodge & the Silverado, as well as the Camaro of course.......could be an expanding business if more GM cars are required by Holden, & not produced RHD by GM.
Pickles.

[whitels1ss]

motoring review....

https://www.motoring.com.au/ram-1500-2018-review-114398/

[Souljah]

motoring review....

https://www.motoring.com.au/ram-1500-2018-review-114398/
80k for a base model, 100k for a "premium" or 165k for the RAM 2500. Lot of coin for a farm truck that's too big to park anywhere.

[whitels1ss]

I saw a 1500 on the road the other day, it looked really imposing.

[whitels1ss]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcpZscHwu98

[Pickles]

Wifey & I visited Walkinshaw Park last week, & saw the Ram, together the Camaro & Silverado. Yeah the Ram looks good, but alongside the Silverado it doesn't look big at all!!
Yeah, I know the Silverado is MASSIVE, but it's also a pretty special machine, if you have use for such a vehicle.
Pickles.

[Delft Maloo]

Wifey & I visited Walkinshaw Park last week, & saw the Ram, together the Camaro & Silverado. Yeah the Ram looks good, but alongside the Silverado it doesn't look big at all!!
Yeah, I know the Silverado is MASSIVE, but it's also a pretty special machine, if you have use for such a vehicle.
Pickles.

The Silverado would look big compared to the Ram 1500 as its a full size larger, the silverado's coming here are 2500/3500's which are equal size to the exisiting Ram 2500/3500. If HSV decides to bring the Silverado 1500 in that would be a good thing as they are better looking and better quality than the Dodge ram 1500's.

[Pickles]

The Silverado would look big compared to the Ram 1500 as its a full size larger, the silverado's coming here are 2500/3500's which are equal size to the exisiting Ram 2500/3500. If HSV decides to bring the Silverado 1500 in that would be a good thing as they are better looking and better quality than the Dodge ram 1500's.

Agree. What sort of mechanicals, engine/gear box do these have?
Pickles.

[Hi Octane]

Silverado should come with the6.6l duramax & allison auto.

[C4B]

Wifey & I visited Walkinshaw Park last week, & saw the Ram, together the Camaro & Silverado. Yeah the Ram looks good, but alongside the Silverado it doesn't look big at all!!
Yeah, I know the Silverado is MASSIVE, but it's also a pretty special machine, if you have use for such a vehicle.
Pickles.

It is useful to consider that the Silverado is a bit of a second tier product in the US. The F truck and Dodge RAM are the kings of the hill. The others like the Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra, Silverado, GMC Sierra are the also-rans.

[Pickles]

Agree. What sort of mechanicals, engine/gear box do these have?
Pickles.

Just thinking about it. The Ram & Silverado, although differing brands, are converted by the same company. Perhaps if Holden did decide to bring in the 1500 & Walkinshaw had to convert it, the Ram people might not be too impressed as it would probably cut into their market?
Pickles.

[whitels1ss]

Seen quite a few of the new Rams on the road lately,

have not driven or even sat in one yet but they look like a reasonably well built thing from what I have seen.

[Micks]

Seen quite a few of the new Rams on the road lately,

have not driven or even sat in one yet but they look like a reasonably well built thing from what I have seen.

Too big though :spew:

[whitels1ss]

They seem to be selling quite well in Australia. :yup:

"The Melbourne production line remanufacturing US pick-ups to right-hand-drive will soon be running 24 hours a day,
five days a week to triple its original output...... "



https://www.caradvice.com.au/745276/exclusive-ram-australia-moves-to-24-hour-production-10-million-investment-local-jobs-boost/

[whitels1ss]

I like the new TV commercial! :lmao:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSqMjuMiOIU

[Xjas]

The Ram is a niche product that will appeal to a select group of fanboys and everyone else will see it for what it is IMHO.

Turns out I was wrong, they appear to selling quite well, beats me how though since the economy is apparently on struggle street.

[SASLS1]

There where lots of people easily willing to spend $80K + on 70 series Landcruiser single cab and duel cab utes with low rent interiors.

I'd say lots of those kind of people have jumped ship, you get alot more for your money at that price point IMO.

[Delft Maloo]

Just wait till the new 2019 US model comes here(2020 aus model) as its a massive step up again in every way and it is a real nice bit of kit, best of all there will be a 6cyl turbo diesel. All 3 big manufactures are releasing 6cyl turbo diesels in the small pickup range and HSV are supposed to be bringing in the new Silverado 1500 diesel soon.

[Blown Monaro]

How does the Ram stack up against a Cruiser off road ? Eats utes for breakfast until the bitumen finishes I'd reckon.

[whitels1ss]

How does the Ram stack up against a Cruiser off road ?

Eats utes for breakfast until the bitumen finishes I'd reckon.

Most likely very true...

but...

I don't think many purchasers of these would be interested in using them much off the bitumen.

It actually makes me laugh seeing some of the 4WD buyers who couldn't drive a greasy stick up a dog's @rse,
who never even intend to take them off road, buying them just for some sort of imaginary pose factor. :lmao:

[Micks]

Most likely very true...

but...

I don't think many purchasers of these would be interested in using them much off the bitumen.

It actually makes me laugh seeing some of the 4WD buyers who couldn't drive a greasy stick up a dog's @rse,
who never even intend to take them off road, buying them just for some sort of imaginary pose factor. :lmao:

I detest awd/4wd with a passion, unless you have a reason for them, they are a menace!! Chew more fuel than our V8's too!!

[Pickles]

I've no idea about numbers etc, but I was at Walkinshaw Racing HQ with the HSVOC last week and we were addressed by Ryan Walkinshaw on a number of issues, including the Dodge Ram, which He said had been very successful for them and that they would be selling even more of them in the future.
Pickles.

[SASLS1]

I see more brand new Dodge rams on the roads every day than ZB Insigneedoors... :lmao:

HSV going from 2 shifts, to 3 shifts and 24 hour production 5 days a week from the 1st of June 2019, clearly demonstrates how well there selling, for the very strong demand that the Rams are commanding.

[whitels1ss]

Still selling very well......



"The Ram pick-up from the USA has passed a major milestone in Australia, with the 5000th example converted to right-hand drive locally in less than four years.



Demand for the Ram 1500 – and its bigger Ram 2500 and 3500 siblings – is so strong the Melbourne facility that remanufactures the trucks to right-hand drive has been operating 24 hours a day since the 1500th example was made in middle of 2019

The whole operation now employs more than 250 staff including local suppliers.

The company attributes much of the Ram 1500's success to the vehicle’s towing capability – up to 4.5 tonnes with the correct hitch, versus 3000kg to 3500kg for most double-cab utes – its roomier cabin, which can comfortably fit three adults across the back seat, and massive cargo box."


More.......

https://www.caradvice.com.au/816297/ram-1500-5000-production/

[Goggles]

one was on the road behind me a day or so ago. made my car look like a micro car :)

[Pickles]

Yes, Walkinshaw are doing very well with the Ram.
I read in the Press that other brands have seen the success of Ram, & could possibly be considering introducing their brand/similar types of vehicles to the Aussie market, in which case it would be interesting to see where the RHD conversion was done, as they are only manufactured in LHD.
Pickles.

[whitels1ss]

Harrop are doing a supercharger kit to suit.

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