Chrysler Group's Ram division
is presenting a stretched truck concept, scheduled for future production, which
is based on a Ram 5500 Chassis cab with the addition on a double cab and an
eight foot box. Set to go display at selected events
across the country, the Ram Long-Hauler is designed to suit the needs of anyone that tows multiple or heavy
trailers, drives long distances or small business owners looking for a “work
horse” at the job site.
Designers started with a Class 5 Ram 5500 Crew Cab and converted to a Mega Cab
passenger compartment, added an 8-foot box and upped the range between refueling stops with a mid-ship fuel tank. Combined with a second frame-mounted tank and a
third, optional, bed-mounted auxiliary tank, total fuel capacity is 170 gallons.
With a 197.4 – inch wheelbase and 37,500 Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR),
the concept Long-Hauler from Ram is just the truck for those wanting to step up
from a traditional Class 3 (one-ton) or Class 4 truck. Overall length of the Ram
Long-Hauler is 24 feet, height is 79.1 inches and estimated curb weight is 9,300
lbs.
The powertrain for the concept truck includes an inline six-cylinder 6.7-liter
High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel engine rated at 800 lb.-ft. of torque. The
Ram’s legendary diesel engine is mated to a six-speed, Aisin AS68RC automatic
transmission with four-wheel-drive transfer case coupled to a 4.88 Dana 110 axle
with dual rear wheels.
Riding on a full Kelderman Air Suspension front and rear and 19.5-inch Alcoa
aluminum wheels, on-road driving dynamics are civilized and even the toughest
road surfaces are easily absorbed providing the driver and passengers with a
smooth, comfortable ride. In fact Ram Long-Hauler's ride qualities are more
inline with those of a 3/4-ton truck. The suspension package also is
self-leveling with kneel feature.
On the exterior, brilliant black paint is accented by white gold metallic lower
two-tone including body side moldings and wide wheel flares at the front and
rear. Up front, a bull bar extends the entire width of the vehicle. For full use
of the bed, the spare tire is located under the box. To help make trailer
line-up easier on the fifth wheel, a separate back-up camera provides a full
view of the bed.
A custom hitch-access tailgate allows easy hook-ups without the need to open or
remove the entire tailgate.
Inside, interior noise levels have been heavily dampened with an upgraded NVH
package that ensures a quiet cabin environment. The Long-Hauler includes 2+2
leather seating with a specific, high comfort driver seat. Rear passenger
comfort is assured with power-adjustable footrests and a rear center console
that includes a refrigerator, cup holders and tray tables.
In-cabin power includes 115V and 12V outlets front and rear. With the interior
Wi-Fi enabled, passengers can easily work on laptop computers connected to the
Internet during long drives.
Additional cabin features also include a laptop storage area and a safe for
valuables. Interior items designed to keep the driver monitoring of vehicle
performance will include a tire pressure monitoring system, rear axle
temperature gauge and exhaust gas temperature and boost gauges. Convenience
features also include an inductive charger and DVD player with overhead screen
for rear seat passengers to enjoy their favorite programs and entertainment.
The rear seats and console also fold flat for additional storage or as a berth
for resting.
Ram Truck has identified a potential market for a Class 5 pickup, including race
car teams, car haulers, RV owners, ranchers and rodeo competitors, boaters and
commercial expediting operations.
The Ram Long-Hauler, while only a concept, will be seen across the country in
the next eight months to help gauge public opinion on the appeal of a vehicle
that provides an upgrade from a 1-ton truck without moving up to a full Class 6
truck.
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