Why did Dodge get rid of Ram?
In a strategic move, Dodge has decided to separate its popular RAM truck line from the Dodge brand. This decision, made in 2009, was driven by a desire to better position both the Dodge and RAM brands in the highly competitive automotive market.
The Rationale Behind the Split
Dodge and RAM had previously operated as a single entity, with RAM trucks being a part of the Dodge lineup. However, as the truck segment grew increasingly important and competitive, Dodge recognized the need to give RAM its own distinct identity and focus.
The key reasons behind Dodge's decision to separate RAM include:
- Differentiation: By creating a standalone RAM brand, Dodge could better differentiate its passenger vehicles from its truck offerings, allowing each to have a more focused and targeted marketing approach.
- Brand Identity: RAM trucks had grown to become a significant part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' (FCA) overall sales and profits. Separating RAM allowed the brand to develop its own unique identity and positioning in the market.
- Competitive Advantage: In the highly competitive truck segment, Dodge believed that giving RAM its own dedicated focus and resources would help it better compete against established truck brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC.
The separation of Dodge and RAM also allowed each brand to have its own dedicated dealer network, further reinforcing their distinct identities and allowing them to better serve their respective customer bases.
The Impact of the Split
The decision to separate Dodge and RAM has proven to be a successful strategy for FCA. Since the split, RAM has grown to become one of the top-selling truck brands in the United States, consistently challenging the dominance of Ford and Chevrolet in the segment.
The key impacts of the Dodge-RAM split include:
- Increased Sales: RAM truck sales have steadily increased since the separation, with the brand now accounting for a significant portion of FCA's overall sales.
- Improved Brand Perception: The distinct identities of Dodge and RAM have allowed each brand to better focus on its core strengths and appeal to its target audience.
- Enhanced Competitiveness: RAM's dedicated focus and resources have enabled it to better compete with other major truck brands, leading to increased market share and profitability.
Overall, the decision to separate Dodge and RAM has proven to be a strategic move that has paid dividends for FCA, allowing both brands to thrive in their respective segments of the automotive market.
Are RAMs still unreliable?
The J.D. Power 100-Point Score, which aggregates hundreds of thousands of independent and unbiased opinions from verified car owners, places RAM Trucks at an 83 out of 100. This score reflects the trust and satisfaction owners have in their RAM trucks, signaling strong reliability.
Why is Dodge getting rid of the Hemi?
Hemi in its current iteration is done. It can't meet emissions standards and, let's be honest, it is behind on power and economy too. It needs to be recast in aluminum and gain direct injection in order to be competitive again.
Why are V8 engines going away?
The Rise of Electrification and Efficiency
Recently, there has been a growing demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. This shift in consumer preferences and increasingly strict emissions regulations have pressured automakers to explore alternative powertrain options.
Why is Dodge recalling RAM trucks?
Ram Recall Details
The problem: The hydraulic control unit (HCU) may fail, which can cause the antilock brake (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control systems to fail. The fix: Dealers will replace the brake HCU, free of charge.
What engine will replace the 5.7 HEMI?
The big story for the new 2025 Ram 1500 pickup is the pair of 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engines, which—as mentioned—will serve as replacements for the Hemi V-8. Ram refers to them as "SST" (Straight-Six Turbo) engines.
Why are Rams no longer Dodge?
In 2009, Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, decided to make RAM a standalone marque. But both Dodge and RAM are owned by the Chrysler group, which is itself a subsidiary of Stellantis.
Is RAM still owned by Chrysler?
Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, decided to make RAM a stand-alone name for their pickup trucks in 2009. That's why if you purchase a Dodge pickup truck at our Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership, there's a distinction between models made before and after 2009.
Why do RAM trucks not say Dodge?
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.
What happened between Dodge and Ram?
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.
Is Ram still owned by Chrysler?
Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, decided to make RAM a stand-alone name for their pickup trucks in 2009. That's why if you purchase a Dodge pickup truck at our Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership, there's a distinction between models made before and after 2009.