- 2013 Ram Chassis Cab goes far beyond competitive
capability with best-in-class towing and best-in-class total cost of
ownership
- New 2013 Ram Chassis Cab includes significant upgrades
to powertrain, frame, suspension, body, electrical architecture and
interior
- Legendary diesel power with new six-speed automatic and
manual transmissions
- 6.7-liter Cummins available with high output option
producing 325 horsepower (242 kW) at 3,000 rpm and best-in-class 750
lb.-ft. of torque (559 N•m)
- 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 delivers 383 horsepower (286 kW) at
5,600 rpm and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (542 N•m), and features variable-valve
timing for greater efficiency and performance (Ram 3500 Chassis Cab)
- New Aisin AS69RC six-speed automatic transmission
handles higher diesel output and offers enhanced power take-off (PTO)
capability
- Exclusive dual-inlet Ram Active Air in diesel models
adjusts induction according to driving conditions for optimal performance
- Best-in-class 15,000-mile oil change intervals on
Cummins diesel
- Advanced diesel engine cooling system enables
25-percent more heat rejection for harsh duty cycles when compared to
previous design
- Next-generation selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and
diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system — more efficient energy
- Innovative features combined with excellence in
engineering make upfitting easy and less expensive
- Only manufacturer to feature standard electronic stability
control (ESC) on all models
- New frame improvements include high-strength 50 KSI
steel, eight cross member construction, C-channel rear rails to ensure
continued unsurpassed noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), ride and
handling characteristics
- Integration of Powernet technology enables expansion of
feature content by adding bandwidth to the truck’s electrical architecture
- Best-in-class powertrain warranty – 5 years/100,000
miles
- Exterior design changes include new grilles and all-new
premium lighting system with bi-functional halogen projector bulbs and
LEDs for park/turn and side markers
- New interior features include: Standard and premium
vehicle information center, steering wheel and controls, instrument panel,
door panels, interior colors and premium materials
- Next-generation Uconnect Access combines a new lineup
of smart media centers with a powerful new wireless platform that includes
Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- New configurable premium vehicle information center
with 7-inch multiview display available on SLT and standard on Laramie
models
- Best-in-class, new vehicle system interface module
(VSIM)
- New Passive Entry, Keyless Enter ’n Go
Auburn Hills, Mich. , Sep 27,
2012 - The 2013 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab truck is the
pinnacle of capability. Engineered and designed for extreme daily work, the Ram
Chassis Cabs are products of a demanding environment and direct customer input.
Ram’s halo truck line focuses on best-in-class capability and best-in-class
total cost of ownership, a leading concern among business owners. For 2013, the
new Chassis Cab trucks also receive an all-new interior, the latest
infotainment technology and exclusive upfit solutions, giving Ram Chassis Cab a
competitive advantage. The new Chassis Cab goes further to offer a best-in-class
powertrain warranty of 5 years/100,000 miles.
“The Ram Chassis Cab lineup is engineered for hard work. Our efforts to
simplify upfitting and reduce total cost of ownership have made Ram a popular
choice for industrial, commercial and even personal applications,” said Fred
Diaz, President and CEO, Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico — Chrysler
Group LLC. “We see an opportunity to grow our share in the Chassis Cab segment
and Ram is offering best-in-class capabilities with class-exclusive features to
get the job done and attract new customers."
The new 2013 Chassis Cab best-in-class capability ratings:
- Best-in-class Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
- Best-in-class towing
- Best-in-class front Gross Axle Weight rating (GAWR) on
4500 and 5500
Features include a number of industry exclusives:
- Vehicle system interface module (VSIM) is capable of
communicating between aftermarket modules and various Chassis Cab control
modules
- Electronic stability control (ESC) on all models
- Largest fuel tank
- Best-in-class 15,000-mile oil change intervals on
Cummins diesel
- Largest -in-class brakes
- Best-in-class dual 220-amp alternator system
- Exclusive back up camera for upfitter positioning
- Best-in-class powertrain warranty
Ram Chassis Cab engineers design trucks for upfits and develop
unique features to ease installation of multiple systems and bodies without
interference or difficult relocation of components, including:
- Industry standard frame lengths 60-inch, 84-inch,
108-inch and 120-inch
- No components or lines above the rear frame rails
- Through-the-frame plumbing and electrical
- Removable/ movable exhaust and frame components
- DEF refill port is conveniently located at the rear of
the cab on the driver’s side to ensure easy access at pump stations
ENGINEERING
With the upfits in mind,
the 2013 Ram Chassis Cab trucks feature new frames built with high-strength 50
KSI steel, including eight separate cross-member construction. Designing the
frames for upfits creates a competitive advantage, improves durability and reduces
warranty costs from unapproved modifications. Ram Chassis Cab trucks have no
components or lines above the rear frame rails. This feature reduces the need
for modification and relocation that is sometimes required in competitive
trucks. One piece, C-channel rear frame rails, and through-the-frame plumbing
and electrical provide a flat plane for ease of mounting application bodies and
accessories.
To handle the best-in-class towing and unsurpassed Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR) capability of the new Ram Chassis Cab, new springs have been integrated
to handle heavier front load while maintaining front ride height. The
improvements also improve overall roll stiffness. Greater roll stiffness, also
known as body roll, is an important characteristic in taller vehicles,
especially trucks with heavy payloads. An advanced five-link front suspension
ensures excellent ride and handling for a higher GVWR and for use with heavy
front loads, including snow plows. The newly designed Hotchkiss rear leaf spring
suspension not only provides a minimum of zero degrees rake angle at max load,
it also maintains objectives for ride and handling.
Steering
Along with alterations in the suspension, Ram engineers improved the
Chassis Cab steering. The drag link is repositioned over the track bar to
reduce roll oversteer and to improve tracking at highway speeds. Also, the drag
link is now attached directly to the knuckle, offering improved efficiency for
driver input. The caster and track are increased for more wheel aligning
torque, which improves return-to-center at the steering wheel. A new ball joint
alignment feature and sealing method improves alignment and service for lower
total cost of ownership. The 2013 Ram Chassis Cab receives a new steering
damper with new valving and protective cover for added durability. These
improvements result in enhanced and precise on-center feel despite the vehicles
higher towing and payload capacities.
Body
The 2013 Ram Chassis Cab comes equipped with updated engine, transmission
and body mounts for class-leading noise, vibration and harshness (NVH)
characteristics.
Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab commercial trucks are available with an
engineering-approved, upfitter-friendly solution for customers who require back
panel removal on regular cab trucks. Because the instructions were created and
approved by Ram commercial truck engineers, the cutaway design retains the
structural integrity of the truck.
Electrical
As the Ram Chassis Cab continues to offer more feature content, it created
the need for a technology that allows more information to be electronically
communicated within the truck. The new Powernet system allows both high- and
low-speed data networks to be equipped with as many as 40 individual modules,
all designed to improve vehicle performance and enhance the comfort and safety
of driver and passengers.
A majority of the commercial truck customers need to tie into the electrical
system and certain fleet customers require access to vehicle information. A new
best-in-class, vehicle system interface module (VSIM) is capable of
communicating between aftermarket modules and various Chassis Cab control
modules. The class exclusive module acts as a secure gateway to the vehicles’
electrical systems and data bus architecture to enable safe, secure plug ‘n
play connectivity for up-fitter use.
New for 2013, an optional dual 220-amp alternator system on the diesel-equipped
Ram Chassis Cab provides best-in-class electrical capability for the higher
electrical loads required in select upfits such as emergency lighting and
electric clutch pumps.
Total cost of ownership and best-in-class powertrain warranty - 5 years/
100,000 miles
Operating costs are of great consideration for owner’s who use their trucks for
work. The 2013 Ram Chassis Cab holds class-leading features in:
- Extended maintenance cycle (15,000 mile oil change,
fuel filter life)
- Brake life with advanced engine exhaust brake
- Upfit integration
The
2013 Ram Chassis Cab is backed with an best-in-class 5-year/100,000-mile
Powertrain Limited Warranty. The powertrain limited warranty covers the cost of
all parts and labor needed to repair a covered powertrain component – engine,
transmission and drive system. Coverage also includes free towing to the
nearest Ram Truck dealer, if necessary. The warranty is transferable allowing
customers who sell their truck during the warranty period to pass the coverage
on to the new owner. The standard 3-year/36,000-mile Basic Limited Warranty
provides bumper-to-bumper coverage for the Ram Chassis Cab, from the body to
the electrical system.
POWERTRAIN
The new Ram trucks deliver the most diesel power in the medium-duty
commercial-truck segment – a proven and highly efficient gasoline engine, an
upgraded six-speed automatic transmission with enhanced power take-off (PTO)
capability and a host of technologies aimed at delivering best-in-class cost of
operation attributes.
The 3500 chassis cab comes standard with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8
gasoline engine. The engine produces 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and generates
peak torque of 400 lb.-ft. at 3,950 rpm. Mated to the 66RFE six-speed automatic
transmission, the HEMI® features enhanced fuel efficiency and power output,
thanks to the incorporation of variable valve-timing and a compression ratio of
10.5:1. Refinements and other applied technologies provide the
latest-generation HEMI with performance and fuel economy improvements to rival
multi-valve V-8 offerings.
Unlike the competition, Ram offers two engine variants based on the 6.7-liter
Cummins for diesel supremacy in the segment.
The first version features 320 horsepower at 2,800 rpm and 650 lb.-ft. of
torque at 1,500 rpm – an increase of 15 horsepower and 40 lb.-ft. torque over
the previous offering. The engine is paired with Ram’s segment-exclusive
six-speed manual transmission, which features a wear-compensating clutch for
consistent performance and a dual-trunion shift tower to accommodate a compact
shift pattern.
A second high-output diesel delivers 325 horsepower at 2,800 rpm and generates
best-in-class torque of 750 lb.-ft. at 1,600 rpm. The engine is paired with a
new Aisin six-speed automatic transmission (AS69RC) and marks the first time a
high-output diesel is offered in Chassis Cab.
The new AS69RC transmission features more robust components and a new
controller that improves shift performance, transmission efficiency and
drivability when compared to the previous model. The new transmission is designed
for higher engine ratings and enables a left-side PTO option, as well as
allowing for a split shaft PTO configuration. Fire pumpers, dump beds, cranes
and onboard compressor/generators are typical PTO based upfits.
For 2013, all Ram Chassis Cab diesels benefit from an all-new cooling system. A
high-efficiency fan, dual radiators, dual transmission coolers and charge air
cooler afford 25 percent more heat-rejection capacity to align with
best-in-class GCWR. Lower operating temperatures deliver improved performance,
durability and lower operating costs.
New GCWR ratings also led to the development of the industry-exclusive Ram
Active Air intake system, activated by new monitoring capabilities added to the
engine controller. When the exclusive intake system senses extreme heat, it
draws cooler air from the front of the vehicle – a function that also engages
at high altitudes for superior throttle response in low oxygen environments.
When conditions are wet from snow, ice or water fording, the system pulls air
from an under-hood inlet, clear from snow packing and water ingestion.
Emissions performance
The Cummins powerplants benefit from a larger exhaust-gas recirculation
cooler, which complements the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and
accommodates a best-in-class oil-change interval of 15,000 miles. Oil life is
increased by reducing soot production and reducing fuel dilution of the oil.
When needed, the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is injected into the exhaust to
reduce NOx (Nitrogen Oxides) emissions coming out of the tail pipe. Unlike the
competition, the Ram Chassis Cab maintains full power when fluid is low. The
state-of-the art DEF system applied on the Ram Chassis Cab features an electric
heater in the DEF tank to ensure the fluid is available in a liquid state
regardless of climate. The result is a less complex system for enhanced
durability. Competitive designs have used a network of glycol-circulated
cooling/heating lines. The DEF refill port is conveniently located at the rear
of the cab on the driver’s side of the vehicle, and clear of upfit zones, a
configuration that ensures easy access at fuel stations when compared to the
competition.
Combined with an improvement in fuel economy, due in part to the engines’
high-pressure common-rail fuel system, SCR provides a net reduction in Ram
Chassis Cab operating costs.
The SCR-equipped Cummins engines also operate cleaner by lowering
greenhouse-gas emissions and better managing soot production than Lean NOx Trap
(LNT) technology.
DESIGN
Exterior
Two new grille designs are available on the 2013 Ram Chassis Cab, and the
quad headlamp design has improved light spread, pattern consistency and
distance. An all-new premium headlamp is offered featuring bi-functional
halogen projectors and new LEDs for park/turn and side markers. The LED light
housings are functional hardware with appeal and durability over incandescent
bulbs.
An exclusive, new back-up camera is available and delivered with factory wiring
and multi-purpose mount for easy installation by the upfitter. The camera
provides a view of the rear with upgraded resolution with higher definition and
dynamic imaging in the available 8.4-inch radio display or 1.7 x 3-inch display
in the rear-view mirror.
Exterior door and fender badges are located in a portrait style format
providing usable real estate on the door for a commercial customer’s logos and
graphics.
For 2013, Ram Chassis Cab offers 12 different colors with an additional 18
specialty paint options, including Midnight Blue, Case Construction Power Tan,
Case IH Red, New Holland Construction Yellow, New Holland Agriculture Blue and
Robin Egg Blue.
Interior
New Ram Chassis Cab features and technologies create an opportunity for a
redesigned interior with material upgrades, improved fit and finish, new
colors, HVAC controls and new multimedia systems.
In four-door models, rear-seat occupants enjoy the same quality, fit and finish
as the driver. With points of contact a priority, new premium, durable
materials are now on all four doors.
The 2013 Ram Chassis Cab features the next generation 8.4-inch Uconnect system.
To make room for the new big screen, the center stack is upgraded with matching
materials found throughout the interior. To complement the range of Chassis Cab
models, the interior design team created new, individualized themes with
different colors and materials.
The all-new HVAC controls take lessons learned from other Chrysler Group
Uconnect applications and feature simple, improved function meeting the highest
Human Machine Interface (HMI) standards. The HVAC system includes a redundant
architecture allowing the operator to use either the 8.4-inch touchscreen or
manual controls to alter the truck’s environment. Below the upgraded HVAC
arrangement is a new switch bank with relocated, easy-to-use controls for a
number of features depending on vehicle models and options. The top row is for
functional features and includes exhaust brake, tow/haul and ESC. The bottom
row comes standard as an auxiliary switch bank for all five spots with a PTO
option when equipped. Contiguous to the switch bank is a relocated and
prominently placed adjustable integrated trailer brake control allowing the
driver to add or reduce trailer brake function on the fly. The new console
center stack includes one 115-volt and two 12-volt outlets on either side with
an optional powered USB on the driver’s side.
All Ram Chassis Cab trucks continue to use a column shifter for the automatic
transmission. Electronic Range Select (ERS) is now located on the face of the
steering wheel, right side, allowing individual gear selection. Diesel models
offer an exclusive manual six-speed transmission, the only manual transmission
offering in the segment. On all models, the transfer case retains full
capability with a rotary e-shift to control “4WD Auto,” “4WD Lock,” “4WD Low,”
“2WD” and “Neutral”.
New technology moves to the gauge cluster. Previously only available on premium
models, the 3.5-inch vehicle information center screen is now a standard
feature. The new thin-film transistor (TFT), 7-inch multiview display is now
available on premium models. The 7-inch screen features fully customizable
function and configurability giving the owner a variety of systems to monitor
from transmission temperature to navigation.
Chassis Cab trucks with bucket seats offer additional storage capacity in the
center console. Six-passenger capability is available with the 40-20-40 bench
seat.
Two new steering wheels are available and seating colors and feel are upgraded
with new colors, including a new premium cloth material.
The center consoles for both the bucket and 40-20-40 bench seat configurations
are all new with efficient storage in mind. The new bucket seat console uses
the extra space as additional storage. The bench seat design includes three new
cup holders built into the console lid that features a washable rubber bellow
lining allowing storage for most cup sizes as well as other personal items.
Folding back the center console and center front seat base reveals a large
storage bin that houses an optional CD player. Both versions of the console
feature two tiers of storage and are available with a new multi-media port with
USB, SD card and auxiliary inputs in the upper tier. Additionally, a 2.5-amp
USB power port and 12-volt outlet are available to meet device-charging needs.
UCONNECT
Building upon base radio capability, two new Uconnect systems are offered
to provide Ram customers with a range of features and connectivity options. The
Uconnect 8.4A and 8.4AN provide Ram truck owners with a built-in wireless
connection allowing vehicle occupants to automatically connect to a variety of
new services. Users can remotely lock and unlock doors or start their vehicles
from any distance via the web or a smartphone application. The new Uconnect
system includes a 911 button on the rear-view mirror for a direct connection to
emergency services. An ASSIST button also is integrated into the rear-view
mirror to summon help directly from a roadside assistance provider or connect
with Chrysler Group’s Vehicle Customer Care Center. Wi-Fi hotspot capability
enabled by Uconnect Access provides in-cabin wireless Internet connectivity via
laptop, tablet or smartphone, whether on the move or at the worksite.
Applications are updatable over the air and are downloaded directly to the
Uconnect 8.4A and 8.4AN systems, keeping features current.
Uconnect Voice Command allows drivers to control their mobile phone, music and
navigation system while staying focused on driving. The phone book within a
compatible phone is automatically downloaded, synchronizing as many as 1,000
phone book entries, which can then be selected by simply saying a contact name.
The feature also allows drivers to switch radio modes, tune to AM, FM, HD and
SiriusXM Radio stations and request real-time information (such as fuel prices)
from the available SiriusXM Travel Link using natural voice commands.
Uconnect supports Bluetooth-equipped cell phones with message access profile
(MAP) advanced text-messaging. This industry-first voice recognition uses the
embedded connectivity to access cloud-based voice-recognition and enable
advanced text messaging, which converts the spoken word into verbatim text
messages. Communication is limited only by the user’s vocabulary.
Filling the gauge cluster in front of the driver is an available 7-inch, color,
premium multiview display, featuring a new customizable function that enables
Ram customers to personalize information inside the instrument cluster. Ram’s
new information display is designed to visually communicate information, using
graphics and text, quickly and easily. The multiview display offers drivers a
wide range of customization options, from a basic digital speed read out to
specific vehicle status information. Operation of the display is clearly
communicated to users with easy-to-understand icons and instructions.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Ram Chassis Cab trucks offer more than 45 active and passive safety and
security features, including standard front air bags and seat-mounted side
pelvic-thorax air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS), knee
bolsters, seat-belt pretensioners, BeltAlert and ParkView rear back-up camera
system.
The 2013 Ram Chassis Cab models also include standard ESC, a segment exclusive
on Class 3/4/5 chassis cabs over 10,000 lb. GVWR. ESC hosts a number of
technologies including all-speed traction control, trailer-sway control,
Hill-start Assist and anti-lock brake system (ABS).
The new 2013 Ram Chassis Cab now offers Keyless Enter ’n Go technology, which
allows the doors to be unlocked and the truck to be started without having to
touch the key fob. An available remote start feature allows a driver to start
their truck from up to 300 feet away. Door controls, illuminated entry, engine
immobilizer and panic alert are standard features with the Keyless Enter ’n Go
system. Auto rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam headlamps also are new
offerings, adding to a long list of content.
MANUFACTURING
Start of production of the 2013 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab is
scheduled for the first quarter of 2013 at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in
Coahuila, Mexico.
