Does the Ram 3500 come with a manual transmission?
No, the Ram 3500 heavy-duty pickup truck does not come with a manual transmission option. The Ram 3500 is available exclusively with an automatic transmission.
Detailed Explanation
The Ram 3500 is a powerful, full-size pickup truck designed for heavy-duty hauling and towing tasks. It is part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' Ram Truck lineup, which includes the lighter-duty Ram 1500 and the even heavier-duty Ram 4500 and 5500 chassis cab models.
For the current generation of the Ram 3500, which was introduced for the 2019 model year, Fiat Chrysler has decided to no longer offer a manual transmission option. All Ram 3500 models come standard with an automatic transmission.
Transmission Options
The transmission options for the 2023 Ram 3500 are:
- 6-speed Aisin AS69RC automatic transmission - This is the standard transmission on most Ram 3500 models.
- 8-speed Torqueflite 8HP75 automatic transmission - This is an optional upgrade on some higher trim levels of the Ram 3500.
Both of these automatic transmissions are well-suited for the Ram 3500's powerful engine options, which include a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 and a 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel I6. The automatic transmissions provide smooth, efficient power delivery to handle the Ram 3500's impressive towing and hauling capabilities.
Why No Manual Transmission?
Fiat Chrysler's decision to discontinue the manual transmission option on the Ram 3500 is likely due to a few key factors:
- Low customer demand - Automatic transmissions have become the overwhelming preference for heavy-duty truck buyers in recent decades, with manual transmissions accounting for only a small fraction of sales.
- Improved automatic technology - Modern automatic transmissions, like the ones offered in the Ram 3500, can match or exceed the performance and efficiency of manual transmissions, making them the more practical choice for most buyers.
- Regulatory changes - Stricter fuel economy and emissions regulations have made it more challenging for automakers to offer manual transmission options, especially in larger, more powerful vehicles like the Ram 3500.
So in summary, the Ram 3500 is no longer available with a manual transmission, as Fiat Chrysler has determined that automatic transmissions are the better fit for the needs and preferences of heavy-duty truck customers today.
