July 2008, Work Truck - Cover Story
Dodge Ram Chassis Cabs: Making Inroads in the Class 4-5 Markets
By Chad Simon
Clean Idling Mandates Met
To meet California’s new clean-idling mandate, Dodge had two options: calibrate the truck to shut down after five minutes of idling or incorporate a more stringent idle emissions regulation, which is what Dodge chose to do.
"Customers want to idle their trucks and it’s not fair to make them shut down after five minutes, as our competitors’ trucks do," said Pugh. "The extra calibration we put in is also available as an option for anyone in the U.S. "
Two Powertrains Available
On the Ram 4500 and 5500 series, Dodge offers the 6.7L Cummins diesel in a six-speed manual or an automatic, available with remote start.
The Cummins diesel engine features a limited warranty of five years or 100,000 miles.
The Ram 3500 Chassis Cab is available with a HEMI next-generation 5.7L V-8 engine with variable valve technology that also delivers better fuel performance. Peak torque has increased 8 percent to 404 ft.-lbs., and peak power has increased 15 percent to 380 horsepower. At 2,000 RPM, torque has improved 6 percent to 350 ft.-lbs.
Variety of Options Provided
New premium fleet options include daytime running lights, power eight-way driver seat, power equipment group, security alarm, UConnect hands-free communication system with Bluetooth technology, and MyGIG multimedia infotainment system with satellite radio, voice-activated capability, touch-screen, and real-time traffic and navigation. Also available are speed control, security alarm, heavy-duty engine cooling system, and a fleet delete option that removes supplemental side-curtain airbags, interior trim, and sunscreen glass.
Out of the factory, every Dodge chassis cab is B-5 (biodiesel) capable. The manufacturer also offers a B-20-capable aftermarket kit through Mopar.
Designed for Fleets
Launched in 1999 and offering no-cost enrollment, Dodge BusinessLink is a full-service commercial program of select Dodge dealers who know and understand the vehicle needs of small businesses, fleet managers, and other commercial vehicle customers.
BusinessLink dealers offer business assistance including dedicated commercial account managers and sales teams, dealer inventories representing a higher mix of work-truck and other commercial vehicles, next-bay service and technicians, extended hours to minimize downtime, and free loaner vehicles. BusinessLink also includes Dodge’s "On The Job" program, which offers discounts on upfits and direct cash incentives and savings on almost all Dodge commercial vehicles.