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Is a Ram 1500 light-duty?

Yes, the Ram 1500 is considered a light-duty truck. The Ram 1500 is part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' (FCA) lineup of full-size pickup trucks, which are designed for a wide range of everyday tasks and light-duty hauling and towing needs.


What is a Light-Duty Truck?


Light-duty trucks are a class of pickup trucks that are designed for personal and commercial use, with a focus on everyday transportation, light hauling, and towing. These trucks typically have a lower payload capacity and towing capacity compared to their heavy-duty counterparts, but they offer better fuel efficiency, a more comfortable ride, and easier maneuverability in urban and suburban environments.


Key Characteristics of the Ram 1500


The Ram 1500 is classified as a light-duty truck due to the following key characteristics:



  • Payload Capacity: The Ram 1500 has a maximum payload capacity of around 2,300 to 2,500 pounds, depending on the specific model and configuration. This is lower than the payload capacity of heavy-duty trucks, which can exceed 4,000 pounds.

  • Towing Capacity: The Ram 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of around 12,000 to 12,750 pounds, depending on the engine, drivetrain, and other factors. Heavy-duty trucks can typically tow significantly more, often exceeding 20,000 pounds.

  • Chassis and Suspension: The Ram 1500 uses a lighter-duty frame and suspension components compared to heavy-duty trucks, which are designed to handle heavier loads and towing requirements.

  • Fuel Efficiency: The Ram 1500's lighter weight and more efficient engines contribute to better fuel economy compared to heavy-duty trucks, which are typically less fuel-efficient due to their larger engines and heavier-duty components.


While the Ram 1500 is considered a light-duty truck, it still offers impressive capabilities and is a popular choice for a wide range of personal and commercial applications, from daily commuting to light-duty hauling and towing.

Is the Ram 1500 a light-duty truck?


THE MOST LUXURIOUS RAM 1500 EVER 1
Climb in and discover how the 2024 Ram 1500 continues to add sophistication and strength to the light-duty segment.



What vehicles are light-duty?


Federal regulations define a light-duty truck to be any motor vehicle having a gross vehicle weight rating (curb weight plus payload) of no more than 8,500 pounds (3,860 kg) which is “(1) Designed primarily for purposes of transportation of property or is a derivation of such a vehicle, or (2) Designed primarily for ...



Is Dodge RAM a light truck?


The Ram Brand is the most awarded light-duty and heavy-duty truck brand over the last five years 2.



Is a Ram 1500 heavy duty?


The Ram 1500 Heavy Duty's 17,500-pound gross combined weight rating (GCWR) also tops all half-ton pickups in the market.



Is a 1500 a heavy duty truck?


As trucks have grown larger and heavier over the years, it's now more common for the 1500 to be sold as a “light-duty truck.” The key difference between 1500 and 2500 models is towing power — but the latter is also equipped with specialized towing features that give it more flexibility when dealing with heavier loads.



What is the difference between heavy duty and light-duty?


Towing: The average light duty truck has a payload around 1,500 to 3,000 pounds with a towing capacity around 12,000 pounds. Heavy duty trucks offer quite a bit more capacity with over 6,500 pounds in payload with over 20,000 pounds of towing potential!



Is a 1500 considered a light truck?


Light-Duty Trucks
Class 1-3 trucks are considered light-duty. Class 2A trucks, such as the Silverado 1500, are categorized as light-duty, while Class 2A models like the RAM 2500 are sometimes referred to as light heavy-duty.



Why is RAM getting rid of the hemi?


Known for its raw power and distinctive sound, the HEMI engine has earned a special place in the hearts of performance enthusiasts. However, as the industry shifts toward more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly options, the iconic V-8 HEMI is being phased out.



What is considered a light-duty truck?


According to the EPA, a light-duty truck is a vehicle that weighs under 10,000 pounds. However, there is an exception to that rule. If a vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating under 8,500 pounds (the maximum loaded weight it can carry including passengers), then it counts as a light-duty truck.



What is a light truck for tax purposes?


Luxury auto (passenger) and Van or light truck
for "passenger automobiles." Passenger automobiles are four-wheeled vehicles primarily used on public roads and are rated at 6,000 pounds unloaded gross vehicle weight or less. (For a truck or van, the gross vehicle weight is substituted for unloaded gross vehicle weight.)


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.