2019 Ram 1500 Drops Weight, Gains Electrification

It’s been a while since RAM did anything significant to improve the 1500 lineup, save for the addition of the EcoDiesel engine, which the EPA swooped in and cut after VW’s dieselgate scandal. That all comes to an end when the 2019 RAM 1500 hits the streets, as it’s completely redone.

Though it’s a complete redesign, the RAM 1500’s design is still very familiar, which is to be expected from any redesigned pickup. The key changes to its looks include a new grille with a chiseled Ram’s head logo and “RAM” lettering, dramatically different versions, available full-LED adaptive lighting, longer and wider bodies with 4-inch-longer cabs, 100 percent increase in storage capacity, an available 12-inch touchscreen, and reclining rear seats.

There are also huge advancements in technology in the 2019 RAM 1500. These include the fourth-generation Uconnect system with 4G Wi-Fi connectivity, an available 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with 900 watts and a 10-inch subwoofer, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, and parallel and perpendicular parking assist.

2019 Ram 1500 Big Horn

Overall, the 2019 RAM 1500 dropped 225 pounds, and 120 of those are in the chassis alone. Heck, the frame itself is down 100 pounds through the switch to 98 percent high-strength steel. Also helping cut weight is its aluminum tailgate, engine mounts, front axle center section, front suspension crossmember, transmission crossmember, and steering gear.

The powertrain also underwent a huge rework. Sure, it continues with the 3.6-liter V-6 and the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, but there is a new eTorque mild hybrid system available. Without the eTorque system, the 3.6-liter V-6 delivers the same 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet or torque, while the Hemi also remains the same at 395 horses and 410 pound-feet. According to RAM, the eTorque system bumps the V-6 by up to 90 pound-feet and the Hemi by up to 130 pound-feet.

The 2019 RAM 1500 is in production now, but there is no mention of when it’ll hit showrooms, nor is there any pricing info.