2008 Dodge Ram 2500/3500

Heavy Duty Hailed as Cleanest Diesel-engine Pickup on the Market

Auburn Hills, Mich. - For 2008, the Dodge Ram Heavy Duty pickups benefit twice from an available 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine. One benefit is its power: 350 horsepower (261 kW) and 650 lb.-ft. (881 N•m) of low-end torque. Another benefit is its low emissions: 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty pickups equipped with the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel already meet federal emissions standards for 2010 – the only heavy duty pickups on the market to do so.

2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab

“Dodge Ram Heavy Duty owners need extraordinary power and capability,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Brand Marketing, Chrysler LLC. “That is why more than 80 percent of our Dodge Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 sales are diesel-powered models. The 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine certainly fits the bill for incredible horsepower and torque, and, at the same time, astonishingly low emissions. But our customers want durability, too, and Dodge delivers that with the longest-lasting, most durable pickups on the market.”

The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty’s 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine uses a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to virtually eliminate particulate matter emissions and an adsorber catalyst to reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by as much as 90 percent, making Dodge the only manufacturer to meet stringent 2010 emissions standards – today.

2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab

The standard powerplant on Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks is the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, delivering best-in-class 345 horsepower (257 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 375 lb.-ft. of torque (510 N•m) at 4,400 rpm. It provides best-in-class acceleration and towing capability compared with competitive vehicles with similar size gasoline engines.

There’s more to the 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty than raw power – available are amenities including Infinity® sound system, navigation radio, UConnect® Hands-free Communication System, rear-seat DVD (Quad Cab® only), bucket seats and power-sliding rear window.

2008 Dodge Ram Power Wagon

"WHAT’S NEW FOR 2008"

New Model:

* SXT

2500 / 3500 Exterior:

* 7-inch x 10-inch trailer tow mirror standard on 2500

2500 / 3500 Interior:

* Dark Maple Burl woodgrain accents for Laramie models

Powertrain / Chassis:

* Electric-shift transfer case standard on 4x4 SLT and Laramie models
* GVWR of 3500 4x4 models with 6.7-liter diesel/six-speed automatic transmission increased to 24,000 lbs. (from 23,000 lbs.)

2500 / 3500 Safety and Security:

* Tire Pressure Monitoring system is standard on models with less than 10,000 lbs. GVWR

DESIGN
The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty’s hallmark design feature, its fully chromed, “crosshair” grille, dominates the front view of the truck, between a subtly creased hood and sculpted front bumper, and is flanked by the Ram’s signature broad-shouldered front fenders.

Whether in the regular cab, Quad Cab or Power Wagon configuration, single rear wheel or Dually, 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks are styled to follow through on the signature Dodge themes of bold, powerful and capable. Designed for work or play, the 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty models are as striking as they are capable, with details including jewel-like round halogen headlamps set within angular bezels, providing optimal light intensity.

Inside, the 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty may be configured for any assignment, with interior appointments ranging from basic to sumptuous.

ENGINEERING
The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Cummins turbodiesel is the newest offering in the heavy-duty segment with 650 lb.-ft. of low-end torque (881 N•m) at 1,500 rpm and 350 horsepower (261 kW) at 3,013 rpm generated from an all-new 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine.

As clean as it is powerful, the 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine includes several technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce unburned hydrocarbons. In addition to the NOx adsorber and the DPF, the 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine includes:

* A cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system combines with a uniquely designed piston combustion bowl and a high-flow, electronically-controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT™), matching boost pressure with the engine’s performance needs to reduce emissions and improve drivability
* Within the exhaust system, a self-cleaning DPF and an oxidation catalyst reduces particulate matter by a factor of 10. The emissions system is designed for a government-certified 120,000 miles
* A new closed crankcase ventilation system eliminates crankcase fumes and oil carry-over, a common problem with past diesels

Nearly 40 percent of the new engine’s parts are carryover, with modifications geared to surpass emissions standards and increase horsepower and torque, while maintaining the durability associated with Dodge and Cummins.

To accommodate the power and torque of the new 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine, a choice of transmissions is offered: a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an available 68RFE six-speed automatic with Electronic Range Select that enables customers to select gears that best match driving conditions.

The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI also offers a pair of transmission choices: a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available 545RFE five-speed automatic with an overdrive gear that helps reduce noise and fuel consumption.

Since a majority of Dodge Ram Heavy Duty buyers opt for four-wheel drive, two transfer cases are available on Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 models. One features traditional manual shift, and the other offers electric shift-on-the-fly capability.

The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty is built on one of the stiffest frames on a pickup truck, fully boxed and partially hydroformed for precision and strength. Combined with Dodge Ram Heavy Duty’s rack-and-pinion steering system, Ram delivers precise feel and response, tuned to give the driver positive feedback and control.

Suspension setups are designed for capability and ride dynamics. An independent, double-wishbone front suspension with coil-over shock absorbers is standard on two-wheel-drive Dodge Heavy Duty models. Four-wheel-drive versions are equipped with a rigid-beam front axle supported by a five-link, coil-spring suspension. Rear suspension, common to both two- and four-wheel-drive models, is composed of a heavy-duty solid axle and longitudinal springs. The Hotchkiss-design rear suspension uses leaf springs that reduce wheel hop and deliver confident handling when fully loaded.

Owing to their power and strength, the 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks boast maximum towing capability of 16,850 lbs., a payload of 5,180 lbs. and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 24,000 lbs. and 12,200 lbs., respectively.

The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty regular cab offers surprising flexibility for its two-door configuration. The unique cab size not only allows for improved seat travel and ease in reclining for driver and passengers, but also provides extra storage behind rear seats.

The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Quad Cab features rear doors that open 85 degrees for convenient access, with windows that roll all the way down. An optional 60/40 split bench rear seat makes it easier to accommodate passengers and cargo. Seat cushions fold up to create a tall storage area from floor to ceiling.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

New levels of strength and durability

* The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty features a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine producing 650 lb.-ft. of torque (881 N•m) at 1,500 rpm and 350 horsepower (261 Kw) at 3,013 rpm
* First diesel engine in the U.S. truck market to meet 2010 federal emissions standards
* 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine features standard duty oil change intervals of 7,500 miles
* Six-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select available with 6.7-liter turbodiesel
* 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivers best-in-class 345 horsepower (257 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 375 lb.-ft. of torque (510 N•m) at 4,400 rpm
* Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks feature best-in-class durability

Heavy-duty capability

* Two 4x4 transfer cases are available: traditional manual shift and electric shift-on-the-fly
* Hydroformed, fully-boxed frame with advanced torsional rigidity and bending stiffness
* Superior towing capability at 16,850 lbs. and a payload of 5,180 lbs.

Superior interior comfort and convenience

* New SXT model provides upgraded features at an attractive price
* Optional bucket seats with available leather trim, best-in-class rear-seat legroom, full-screen navigation radio, rear-seat DVD (Quad Cab only), Infinity® sound system, UConnect® Hands-free Communication System and power sliding rear window

Bold exterior design

* Fully chromed, ingot-like grille over a massive front bumper, creates a bold and protective statement
* Substantial grille remains a mainstay of the Dodge Ram design signature, with the large crosshair as the focal point, flanked by large angular headlamps

MODEL LINEUP

2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 ST

Standard Features

* 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
* Six-speed manual transmission
* Air conditioning
* AM/FM stereo with CD player and four speakers
* Four-wheel disc brakes with four-wheel ABS
* Part-time four-wheel-drive transfer case (on 4x4 models)
* 17-inch wheels and full-size spare tire

Optional Equipment

* 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine
* Six-speed automatic transmission (with 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine)
* Five-speed automatic transmission (with 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine)
* Bedliner
* Trailer tow mirrors
* Speed control
* 17-inch chrome-clad steel wheels
* Supplemental side-curtain air bags

2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 SXT

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the Dodge Ram ST, the Ram 2500 and 3500 SXT adds/replaces the following:

* Chrome front and rear bumpers
* Cloth seats and carpet
* Power windows, locks and mirrors
* Speed control
* Remote keyless entry

2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 SLT

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the Dodge Ram SXT, the Ram 2500 and 3500 SLT adds/replaces the following:

* Overhead console with mini-trip computer and compass (with 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine only)
* Speed control
* Power windows and door locks
* Keyless entry
* 17-inch chrome-clad steel wheels

Optional Equipment

In addition to optional features on the Dodge Ram SXT, the Ram 2500 and 3500 SLT adds/replaces the following:

* Power sun roof
* Power adjustable pedals
* Remote start (gas engine only)
* AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer
* Infinity® speaker system
* Full-screen navigation radio
* SIRIUS Satellite Radio
* UConnect® Hands-free Communication System with Bluetooth® technology
* Rear-seat DVD entertainment system
* Bucket seats with leather upholstery
* Six-way power driver seat
* 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
* YES Essentials® stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric

2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 Laramie

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the Dodge Ram SLT, the Ram 2500 and 3500 Laramie adds/replaces the following:

* Bodyside chrome molding
* Dual-zone climate control
* Steering-wheel mounted audio controls
* Security alarm
* Sentry Key® engine immobilizer

2008 Dodge Ram Power Wagon

Standard Features

* 345-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI engine
* Electric-locking front and rear differentials
* Class-exclusive electronic disconnecting sway bar
* 32-inch BF Goodrich off-road tires
* Custom-built Warn® 12,000-lb. winch

Optional Equipment

* Trailer-tow mirrors
* Sun roof
* Power-adjustable pedals
* Leather-trimmed seats
* Rear-seat DVD entertainment system
* Supplemental side-curtain air bags

2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 TRX4 Off-Road

Standard Features

* 17-inch aluminum wheels
* Unique off-road tires
* Limited-slip differential
* Transfer case skid plates
* Skid plates for the front and rear axles
* Unique red-painted shocks
* Tow hooks
* Fog lamps
* “TRX4 Off-Road” badging

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Please refer to the safety glossary for descriptions of the following features:

* Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
* Advanced Multi-stage Air Bags
* BeltAlert
* Brake/Park Interlock
* Child Protection Rear Door Locks
* Constant Force Retractors (CFR)
* rumple Zones
* Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
* Energy-absorbing Steering Column
* Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS)
* Head Restraints
* Height-adjustable Seat Belts
* HomeLink® Universal Home Security System Transceiver
* Interior Head Impact Protection
* Knee Bolsters
* LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)
* Low-risk Deployment Front Passenger Air Bags
* Power-adjustable Pedals
* Remote Keyless Entry
* Seat Belt Pretensioners
* Security Alarm
* Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer
* Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags
* Three-point Shoulder Belts
* Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) System
* UConnect® Hands-free Communication System

COLOR AVAILABILITY

* Bright White
* Brilliant Black
* Bright Silver Metallic
* Flame Red
* Inferno Red
* Light Khaki
* Mineral Gray Metallic
* Patriot Blue

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION

* 2008 model year production start: July 2007
* Production locations: St. Louis North Assembly Plant, St. Louis, Missouri; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico
* 5.7-liter HEMI engine: Saltillo Engine Plant, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico
* 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine: Cummins Engine Plant, Columbus, Ind.
* Five-speed Automatic Transmission: Kokomo Transmission Plant, Kokomo, Ind.
* Six-speed Automatic Transmission: Kokomo Transmission Plant, Kokomo, Ind.
* Six-speed Manual Transmission: Sao Bernardo do Campo plant, Sao Paulo, Brazil

MARKET POSITION
The 2008 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty leads the way in the heavy-duty segment with a pair of powerful and efficient engines: the new 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, which produces 650 lb.-ft. of torque (881 N•m) while meeting stringent 2010 federal emissions regulations; and the most powerful standard engine in the segment, the 345-horsepower (257 kW) 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8, which offers fuel-saving Multi-displacement technology that offers up to 20 percent better fuel economy than comparable gas engines.

Dodge Ram Heavy Duty pickup trucks offer “big rig” power, styling and capability. With an uncompromising attitude that remains the standard for all other full-size heavy-duty pickups, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty delivers the performance and amenities that customers demand.

DEMOGRAPHICS

* Gender: 91 percent male
* Age: 52 (median)
* Household Income: $68,000
* Household: 82 percent married

MARKET ADVANTAGES

* 650 lb.-ft. of best-in-class low-end torque from the all-new 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine – the only heavy duty pickup truck engine on the market to meet all 2010 federal emissions regulations
* Best-in-class acceleration when equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
* Best-in-class interior room with Quad Cab® models
* Best-in-class off-road capability with Dodge Ram Power Wagon
* Superior towing capability of 16,400 pounds
* Only heavy-duty pickup to offer adjustable pedals
* Market-exclusive electronic front and rear locking differentials and disconnecting sway bar on Ram Power Wagon

2500 / 3500 / POWER WAGON PRODUCT CHRONOLOGY

2007 Model Year

* New 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine delivers 350-hp and 650 lb.-ft. of torque with six-speed automatic transmission (available January 2007, replacing 5.9-liter diesel engine)
* New six-speed automatic transmission (mated with 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine, available January 2007)
* Optional Remote Start

2006 Model Year

* Re-engineered fuel system to meet LEV II and ORVR requirements
* Redesigned 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels standard on Sport package, optional on Laramie models
* Thicker front door glass and re-engineered door seals for reduced wind noise contributes to interior cabin quietness
* Polymer constraint layer on front of dash panel for enhanced engine and road noise abatement
* Redesigned headlamps, grille, front fascia and fender assemblies
* Enhanced headlamp performance
* Optional power sliding backlight
* Available in nine colors, including Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat and Light Khaki Metallic Clear Coat
* Redesigned instrument panel (includes wider center stack, reduced-glare panel cluster, new HVAC controls) with four trim levels (ST, monochrome; SLT, woodgrain; Laramie, wood/metal; Sport, metallic)
* Optional full-screen navigation radio
* Optional DVD rear seat entertainment system on Quad Cabs
* Optional front bucket seats with full center console available on SLT, Sport package and Laramie
* Rear seat ladder-style headrests on Quad Cab
* Enhanced seat design includes enhanced leather offerings and French-stitched sew lines
* Upscale finishes, including Maple Pommele accents on instrument panel and doors and Satin Silver II accents on control knobs
* Interior color offerings: Khaki and Medium Slate Gray

Power Wagon

* Redesigned headlamps, grille, front fascia and fender assemblies
* Redesigned instrument panel
* Optional front bucket seats with full center console
* Rear seat ladder-style headrests on Quad Cab
* Enhanced seat design includes enhanced leather offerings and French-stitched sew lines
* Upscale finishes, including Maple Pommele accents on instrument panel and doors and Satin Silver II accents on control knobs
* Interior color offerings: Khaki and Medium Slate Gray

2005 Model Year

Exterior:

* New sun roof available on Quad Cab
* New tailgate badging strategy: ram’s head badge replaces “Dodge” nameplate, larger “Heavy Duty” nameplate

Interior:

* UConnect® Hands-free Communication System with Bluetooth® technology features push-to-talk button in rearview mirror assembly optional on SLT and Laramie
* SIRIUS Satellite Radio optional on SLT and Laramie Quad Cab

Chassis:

* New transmission mounts for manual transmissions reduce noise, vibration and harshness
* New diesel in-tank fuel lift pump

Power Wagon:

New for the 2005 model year, the Dodge Ram Power Wagon returns as a new Dodge Ram Heavy Duty model and debuts as the most capable off-road pickup in the industry. Based on the Dodge Ram 2500 and available in either regular or Quad Cab body styles, the Power Wagon is distinguished by:

* Custom matte-finished wheel flares
* Two-inch-taller stance
* Custom 17-inch polished forged aluminum wheels and 33-inch tires
* Specific Power Wagon badging
* Electric front/rear locking differentials
* Specific off-road suspension design
* 4.56 rear axle ratio
* Custom-built winch in front bumper assembly

2004 Model Year

* All Cummins diesel engines are now high output version (2004.5)
* Box-off model introduced
* Tow/haul mode included with models with automatic transmission
* New 48RE four-speed automatic transmission with standard and High Output Cummins diesel engines
* New exterior color: Deep Molten Red replaces Garnet Red
* New adjustable rear seat outboard head restraints standard
* Chromed bodyside moldings standard for Laramie
* Chrome-surround grille with chromed billet inserts for Laramie standard
* Heated mirrors optional on SLT and Laramie
* Chrome-clad wheels now standard on Laramie
* New available Navigation radio with 4.9-inch full-color display, AM/FM stereo, CD player and DVD-based navigation system
* Satin Silver door and instrument panel bezels for Laramie

2003 Model Year

* All-new ST, SLT and Laramie models
* Dual rear wheels are standard on 3500 series except Quad Cab short box. Single rear wheel is optional on 3500 series Quad Cab short and long box models with diesel engines
* All models are built on two wheelbases: 140.5 and 160.5 inches
* 5.7-liter HEMI® Magnum OHV, SMPI V-8 with 5-45RFE five-speed automatic transmission or NV4500 five-speed manual transmission
* Cummins 5.9-liter standard diesel engine with 47RE four-speed automatic transmission or NV4500 heavy-duty five-speed manual transmission
* Cummins 5.9-liter High Output diesel engine with NV5600 heavy-duty six-speed manual transmission

2002 Model Year

* 8.0-liter V-10 engine with 47RE four-speed automatic transmission or NV4500 heavy-duty five-speed manual transmission
* NV271 GII transfer case with part-time four-wheel drive, manual shift
* NV273 GII transfer case with part-time four-wheel drive, electric shift
* Frame — Fully boxed rails with hydroformed front and “kickup” sections
* Rack-and-pinion steering for two-wheel-drive models
* Precision recirculating ball steering for four-wheel-drive models
* Larger front and rear disc brake rotors
* Tow hooks — Optional
* Adjustable pedals — Optional
* AM/FM stereo with six-disc in-dash CD — Optional
* Optional supplemental side air bag inflatable curtains (SABIC)
* Constant-force retractors with pyrotechnic pretensioners on front seats
* Three-point seat belt for center front passenger — Regular cab
* Three-point seat belt for center rear passenger — Quad Cab
* LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) added to passenger outboard seats in Quad Cab and regular cab

2001 Model Year

* July 2000 Production
* Club Cab® body style discontinued
* Standard four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes with dual-piston rear calipers on 2500 and 3500 models
* User-ready child seat upper anchors on cab back panels
* January 2000 Production
* High-output Cummins turbo diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission only (245 horsepower and 505 lb.-ft. of torque)

2000 Model Year

* 2500 Club Cab body style discontinued
* New front suspension and steering systems on all models
* Revised rear suspension systems on 2500 and 3500 models
* All-new brake system with dual-piston front disc brake calipers and quick-response vacuum booster

1999 Model Year

* Four-wheel anti-lock brakes standard on 3500 models
* Upgraded Sport Appearance Group — Front bumper and fascia, grille, quad headlamps

1998 Model Year

* Quad Cab body style introduced
* More powerful 5.9-liter Ram Cummins turbo diesel engine (mid-year introduction)
* Next-generation driver and front passenger air bags (running change) (a)
* Passenger air bag cutoff switch (regular cab and Quad Cab only) (running change) (b)
* Removable storage module under rear seats of Quad Cab (mid-year introduction)

1995 Model Year

* Club Cab model added

1994 Model Year

* All-new regular cab models introduced
* Model designations changed to 1500, 2500 and 3500

(a) Quad Cab only.
(b) Certified to federal regulations that allow less forceful air bags. Always use seat belts. Remember, a back seat is the safest place for children 12 years and under.

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