Are RAM trucks separate from Dodge?
For years, Dodge and RAM were synonymous, with RAM trucks being a part of the Dodge lineup. However, in recent years, there has been a shift in branding that has left many car enthusiasts and truck buyers wondering: Are RAM trucks still part of Dodge, or are they now a separate entity? Let’s dive into the history and current status of these iconic brands.
The History of Dodge and RAM
RAM trucks were originally introduced as part of the Dodge brand, which has been a staple in the American automotive industry for over a century. Dodge produced a variety of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks, with the RAM nameplate specifically representing their line of pickup trucks. For decades, Dodge RAM trucks were known for their ruggedness, power, and reliability.
However, in 2009, a significant change occurred. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the parent company of Dodge at the time, decided to separate the Dodge brand into two distinct divisions: Dodge, which would focus on cars and performance vehicles, and RAM, which would specialize in trucks. This move was part of a strategic effort to better market and position each brand in their respective segments.
RAM: A Standalone Brand
Since the split, RAM has operated as its own brand, distinct from Dodge. While the two brands share a common heritage and are still under the same corporate umbrella (now Stellantis, following the merger of FCA and PSA Group), they are marketed and branded separately. RAM trucks now carry the RAM badge exclusively, without the Dodge name.
This separation has allowed RAM to focus entirely on producing high-quality trucks, ranging from light-duty pickups like the RAM 1500 to heavy-duty models like the RAM 2500 and 3500. Meanwhile, Dodge has concentrated on its performance-oriented vehicles, such as the Charger, Challenger, and Durango.
Why the Split Happened
The decision to separate RAM from Dodge was driven by several factors:
- Brand Specialization: By creating a dedicated truck brand, FCA aimed to strengthen RAM's identity and appeal to truck buyers specifically.
- Market Competition: The truck market is highly competitive, with brands like Ford and Chevrolet dominating the space. A standalone RAM brand allowed for more focused marketing and product development.
- Consumer Perception: Separating RAM from Dodge helped clarify the brand's purpose and avoid confusion among consumers.
What This Means for Buyers
For truck buyers, the separation of RAM from Dodge means that RAM trucks are now designed and marketed with a singular focus on meeting the needs of truck enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a reliable workhorse or a luxurious, feature-packed pickup, RAM offers a range of options tailored to different needs.
Meanwhile, Dodge continues to cater to those who love high-performance cars and SUVs, ensuring that both brands can thrive in their respective markets.
Conclusion
In summary, RAM trucks are no longer part of the Dodge brand. They are now a standalone brand under the Stellantis umbrella, with a dedicated focus on producing some of the best trucks in the industry. This strategic move has allowed both RAM and Dodge to carve out their own identities and better serve their customers.
So, the next time you see a RAM truck on the road, remember that while it shares a rich history with Dodge, it is now its own distinct brand, built to tackle the toughest jobs and adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ram truck part of Dodge?
In 2009, Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, made RAM a stand-alone name for their pickup trucks. If you own a truck made before 2009, it's called a Dodge RAM, and all post-2009 pickup trucks are simply RAM trucks.
What is the difference between Dodge and RAM trucks?
Ram became synonymous with pickup trucks, while Dodge concentrated solely on rolling out muscle cars and SUVs. Today, the Dodge Ram truck is specifically known as the Ram truck. (Also read: What is New in the 2022 RAM 1500 Built to Serve Edition?)
Why are RAM trucks no longer Dodge?
Chysler bought Dodge in 1981, which led to a restructuring of the most popular models. This meant that Dodge retained its cars, SUVs, and minivans – while the RAM truck lineup eventually became its own brand completely in 2009.
What's the difference between a Dodge truck and a Ram truck?
Ram became synonymous with pickup trucks, while Dodge concentrated solely on rolling out muscle cars and SUVs. Today, the Dodge Ram truck is specifically known as the Ram truck. (Also read: What is New in the 2022 RAM 1500 Built to Serve Edition?)
Why are thieves targeting RAM trucks?
So thieves have moved it to the top of their list in York Reg. Alone more than 130. Have been stolen. So far. This year Ram trucks are being stolen from driveways in Barry London.
Is Ram still connected to Dodge?
RAM Sets Out on Its Own
In the early 2000s, Daimler-Benz, which then owned Dodge, realized how lucrative the truck market was becoming. The company then decided to separate RAM from Dodge so it could become its own brand. In 2009, the split became official.
Why do RAM trucks not say Dodge anymore?
Chysler bought Dodge in 1981, which led to a restructuring of the most popular models. This meant that Dodge retained its cars, SUVs, and minivans – while the RAM truck lineup eventually became its own brand completely in 2009.
Who owns RAM trucks now?
Stellantis
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.
Why did Dodge start calling their trucks Ram?
I would say that they changed their name from dodge to RAM in an effort to change their image, but that isn't true. Dodge spun off their truck line and named it RAM, so that dodge could focus on their automotive products (muscle cars and sedans,) and to allow RAM to focus on developing their truck line.
Are Dodge and Ram separate?
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.
