Are Dodge and RAM the same company?
In the automotive world, the relationship between brands can often be confusing, especially when it comes to well-known names like Dodge and RAM. This article aims to clarify the connection between these two brands, their histories, and how they operate within the automotive industry today.
The Historical Context
Dodge and RAM have a shared history that dates back to the early 20th century. Dodge was founded in 1900 by brothers John and Horace Dodge as a machine shop, and it quickly evolved into a manufacturer of automobiles. The brand became known for its durable and powerful vehicles, gaining a loyal following over the decades.
RAM, on the other hand, originated as a line of trucks produced by Dodge. The RAM name was first introduced in 1981, specifically for Dodge's pickup trucks. Over the years, the RAM trucks gained popularity for their performance and reliability, leading to a distinct identity within the Dodge lineup.
Corporate Structure
In 2009, during the financial crisis, Chrysler Group LLC (which owned Dodge) filed for bankruptcy. As part of the restructuring process, the RAM brand was separated from Dodge and became its own distinct division within the Chrysler Group. This move allowed RAM to focus exclusively on the truck market, while Dodge continued to produce cars and SUVs.
Today, both brands are part of Stellantis, a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group. While they operate under the same corporate umbrella, Dodge and RAM serve different segments of the automotive market.
Key Differences
While Dodge and RAM share a common heritage, there are several key differences between the two brands:
- Product Focus: Dodge primarily focuses on passenger cars and performance vehicles, such as the Charger and Challenger, while RAM specializes in trucks and commercial vehicles.
- Brand Identity: Dodge is known for its sporty and performance-oriented vehicles, whereas RAM emphasizes durability and capability in its trucks.
- Marketing Strategies: Each brand has its own marketing approach, targeting different demographics and customer needs.
Conclusion
In summary, while Dodge and RAM are not the same company, they are closely related and share a rich history. RAM originated as a line of trucks under the Dodge brand but has since evolved into a separate entity focused on the truck market. Both brands continue to thrive under the Stellantis umbrella, catering to different segments of the automotive industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ram and Dodge the same?
In 2009, Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, decided to make Ram a stand-alone name for their pickup trucks. That's why if you own a Dodge pickup truck made before 2009, it's called a Dodge Ram, and post-2009 pickups are Ram trucks. They're still the same company.
Why did Dodge and Ram split up?
Chrysler, now under the ownership of Daimler-Benz, recognized the growing importance of the truck segment and made a strategic decision to separate the Ram brand from Dodge. In 2009, the divorce was finalized, with Ram becoming a standalone brand focused solely on trucks.
Why did Dodge stop using the Ram logo?
Dodge and Ram eventually separated into their own entities, and when the truck brand branched out in 2010, they took the ram logo with them. This meant Dodge had to produce a new logo, but the brand decided to do something even better… they produced two!
Who owns Dodge now?
StellantisDodge / Parent organization
In 2014, Fiat completed the acquisition and formed Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). FCA later merged with Peugeot Invest and formed a new entity called Stellantis in 2021. Today, Stellantis owns multiple major auto brands, including Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, Ram, Fiat, Opel, Maserati, Citroen, and Peugeot.
Is Ram still owned by Dodge?
If you have a used RAM that dates before 2009, you might still have the “Dodge RAM” emblem. The company dropped the “Dodge” in 2009, so all trucks made from this date forward were simply “RAM trucks”. And though Dodge and RAM are still part of the same company, the trucks are labeled solely as RAM.
Why did Dodge and RAM split up?
Chrysler, now under the ownership of Daimler-Benz, recognized the growing importance of the truck segment and made a strategic decision to separate the Ram brand from Dodge. In 2009, the divorce was finalized, with Ram becoming a standalone brand focused solely on trucks.
Why are Ram trucks not called Dodge?
In 1928 Chrysler purchased Dodge. Dodge Ram was created in 1981. "Dodge" was the brand and "Ram" was the model at the time. It wasn't until 2010 that Ram became its own brand.
Are Dodge and Ram two different brands?
That's why, if you own a Dodge pickup truck made before 2009, it's called a Dodge RAM. Post-2009 pickups are RAM trucks. They're still the same company; the only difference is that Dodge cars, SUVs, and minivans are under Dodge branding, and their pickups are under RAM.
Who owns Ram currently?
While both Dodge and RAM are currently owned by Stellantis (formerly known as FCA group), they are their own unique automotive brands, not unlike how GMC and Chevy are their own unique brands under the General Motors umbrella. Read on or contact us to learn more.
Why does RAM and Dodge have the same logo?
Dodge and Ram eventually separated into their own entities, and when the truck brand branched out in 2010, they took the ram logo with them. This meant Dodge had to produce a new logo, but the brand decided to do something even better… they produced two!
