2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs Extend “Ram Tough” Heritage to Class 4 and 5 Segments

August 31, 2007 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -  Showcasing dominant commercial-grade capability, durability and dependability while extending bold, tough Dodge Ram heritage to the Class 4 and 5 commercial markets, the 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs deliver maximum uptime and offer leading powertrain packages, a commercial-grade upfit-friendly chassis, and bold, “big-rig” Ram styling.

“The 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs not only conquer new territory for the Dodge brand, but these powerful, capable work trucks fill yet another white space opportunity within the commercial vehicle market,” said Michael Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand & SRT Marketing and Communications, Chrysler LLC.

Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs boast a standard legendary Cummins Turbo Diesel in a 6.7-liter displacement and a six-speed automatic or manual transmission with Power Take Off (PTO) capability. Together with class-leading brakes and pistons, a standard diesel exhaust brake system extends brake life while giving the driver increased control. With a commercial-grade frame (50,000-psi steel) to maximize strength and reduce weight, flat “clean” frame rails help facilitate ease of aftermarket upfits or retrofits.


"WHAT’S NEW FOR 2008"

  • Dodge brand’s re-entry into Class 4 and 5 markets 
  • All-new front frame with heavy-duty suspension components 
  • All-new heavy-duty steering gear 
  • All-new heavy-duty rear axle and suspension 
  • New 19.5-inch tires and wheels with 10-bolt attachment 
  • New wide-track front axle delivers superior turning radius 
  • Standard exhaust brake system 
  • Power Take Off (PTO) capability for both manual and automatic transmissions 
  • Best-in-class front-brake calipers and rotors 
  • Four wheelbases and four cab-axle lengths 
  • Increased rear-frame thickness maintains upfit-friendly attributes 
  • Standard front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of 7,000 lbs. 
  • Standard rear GAWR of 13,500 lbs. (5500 model) 
  • 4500 models have Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 16,500 lbs. 
  • 5500 models have GVWR of 19,500 lbs. 
  • Maintained common electrical architecture between all Dodge Ram heavy-duty trucks


DESIGN
Instantly recognizable with unmistakable bold Dodge Ram styling and design, the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs stand out in the Class 4 and 5 chassis cab segments.

Loaded with a “big-truck” look and feel, its enormous crosshair grille and large headlamps are the dominant focal point of a vehicle that not only conveys commercial power and vigor, but also retains the most recognizable design signature of any mid-size truck on the market.

Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs are available in three trim lines: ST, SLT and Laramie.


ENGINEERING
Powered by the legendary Cummins Turbo Diesel (in a 6.7-liter displacement), dominant commercial performance is assured with the 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs.

The standard Cummins engine generates 305 horsepower (227 kW) at 3,000 rpm and 610 lb.-ft. of torque (827 N•m) at 1,600 rpm. The engine also delivers superior fuel economy while ensuring durability and low cost of ownership for the commercial customer.

The 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs offer a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission – both with Power Take Off (PTO) capability. The standard diesel exhaust brake system, along with class-leading front brakes and pistons, provide extended brake life and increased driver control while contributing to enhanced safety performance. Standard four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) ensure superior safety and crash-avoidance capability.

The Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab lineup of 4x2, 4x4, dual-rear-wheel, regular and Quad Cab™ models are “Job-rated,” meaning they are designed, engineered, tested and built to meet the rigid standards of commercial truck buyers. All models provide expanded capability and durability with a commercial-grade chassis mated to a one-piece C-channel rear-frame rail (50,000 psi steel strength).

Four cab-axle lengths (60, 84, 108 and 120 inches) are available. Maximum GVWR for 4500 models is 16,500. For 5500 models, the maximum GVWR is 19,500 lbs. The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) for both 4500 and 5500 models is 26,000 lbs.


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

“Another Best-in-Class Dodge Ram” delivering maximum uptime – With class-leading attributes, designed, engineered and built to meet stringent standards of commercial vehicle customers

  • Largest standard fuel tank in segment (52 gallons) 
  • Best-in-class first-gear launch provides optimum acceleration on vehicle take-off 
  • Largest front brake rotors in segment (390 mm) 
  • Largest caliper piston size in segment (66 mm) 
  • Standard diesel exhaust brake system, along with class-leading brakes and pistons, extend brake life while giving driver increased control 
  • Flat, “clean” frame rail – all chassis components below top-of-frame surface to facilitate aftermarket upfits or retrofits

Commercial Grade Performance 

  • Legendary Cummins Turbo Diesel in 6.7-liter displacement delivering 305 horsepower (227 kW) and 610 lb.-ft. of torque (827 N•m) 
  • Power Take Off (PTO) capability for six-speed manual or available automatic transmission 
  • Commercial-grade frame (50,000-psi steel) to maximize strength and reduce weight 
  • “Job-Rated” lineup of models engineered to ensure the right truck for the job 
  • Superior ride and handling 
  • Commercial-grade service through dedicated and innovative commercial programs and services


2008 DODGE RAM 4500 AND 5500 CHASSIS CABS LINEUP

Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST

Standard Features 

  • 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel 
  • 40/20/40 vinyl seats 
  • Argent front bumper 
  • Argent grille 
  • Argent steel wheels 
  • Exhaust brake system 
  • Four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) 
  • Instrument panel black bezel 
  • Manual door locks 
  • Manual windows 
  • Seven-inch x 10-inch manual exterior mirrors 
  • Six-speed manual transmission 
  • Trailer tow wiring (7 wires) 
  • Two speakers 
  • Vinyl floor covering

Optional Features (All Models) 

  • 22.5-gallon mid-ship fuel tank 
  • 220-amp alternator 
  • Power Take Off (PTO) capability 
  • Six-speed automatic transmission 
  • Snow plow prep package 
  • Spare tire and tools 
  • Vinyl seats and flooring (SLT only) 
  • LPO options include passenger air bag delete, radio delete, power window/lock/mirror option with ST, and unique exterior paint colors

Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the ST, the Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT adds: 

  • Air conditioning 
  • Carpet floor covering 
  • Floor mats 
  • Four speakers 
  • Grille, bright chrome with black inserts 
  • Keyless entry 
  • Power heated mirrors 
  • Power windows/locks 
  • Sentry Key® engine immobilizer 
  • Speed control 
  • Tilt wheel 
  • Wheels, bright skins/chrome center cap 
  • 17-inch chrome-clad steel wheels 
  • 40/20/40 cloth seats with YES Essentials® stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric

Optional Features 

  • Adjustable pedals 
  • AM/FM radio with six-disc CD player 
  • Bucket seats with leather upholstery 
  • Infinity sound system 
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio 
  • Six-way power driver seat 
  • UConnect® Hands-free Communication System 
  • 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels

Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the SLT, the Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie adds: 

  • Dual-zone temperature control 
  • Fog lamps 
  • Glove box, ash tray, under-hood lamp 
  • Grille, chrome with chrome inserts 
  • Leather power/heated seats 
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel 
  • Luxury front floor mats 
  • Power-sliding rear window 
  • Security alarm 
  • Steering wheel radio controls 
  • Woodgrain instrument panel bezel

Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST

Standard Features 

  • 40/20/40 vinyl seats 
  • Argent front bumper 
  • Argent grille 
  • Argent steel wheels 
  • Four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) 
  • Instrument panel black bezel 
  • Manual door locks 
  • Manual windows 
  • Seven-inch x 10-inch manual exterior mirrors 
  • Six-speed manual transmission 
  • Trailer tow wiring (7 wires) 
  • Two speakers 
  • Vinyl floor covering

Optional Features (All Models) 

  • 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel 
  • 22.5-gallon mid-ship fuel tank 
  • 220-amp alternator 
  • Exhaust brake system 
  • Power Take Off (PTO) capability 
  • Six-speed automatic transmission 
  • Snow plow prep package 
  • Spare tire and tools 
  • Vinyl seats and flooring (SLT only) 
  • LPO options include passenger air bag delete, radio delete, power window/lock/mirror option with ST, and unique exterior paint colors

Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the ST, the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT adds: 

  • Air conditioning 
  • Carpet floor covering 
  • Floor mats 
  • Four speakers 
  • Grille, bright chrome with black inserts 
  • Keyless entry 
  • Power heated mirrors 
  • Power windows/locks 
  • Sentry Key engine immobilizer 
  • Speed control 
  • Tilt wheel 
  • Wheels, bright skins/chrome center cap 
  • 17-inch chrome-clad steel wheels 
  • 40/20/40 cloth seats with YES Essentials® stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric

Optional Features 

  • Adjustable pedals 
  • AM/FM radio with six-CD disc player 
  • Bucket seats with leather upholstery 
  • Infinity sound system 
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio 
  • Six-way power driver seat 
  • UConnect® Hands-free Communication System 
  • 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels

Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie

Standard Features

In addition to standard features on the SLT, the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie adds: 

  • Dual-zone temperature control 
  • Fog lamps 
  • Glove box, ash tray, under–hood lamp 
  • Grille, chromed with chromed inserts 
  • Leather power/heated seats 
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel 
  • Luxury front floor mats 
  • Power-sliding rear window 
  • Security alarm 
  • Steering wheel radio controls 
  • Woodgrain instrument panel bezel


SAFETY AND SECURITY
Please refer to the safety glossary for descriptions of the following available features: 

  • BeltAlert 
  • Child-protection Rear-door Locks 
  • Energy-absorbing Steering Column 
  • Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS) 
  • Four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) 
  • Integrated Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter and Ignition Key 
  • Knee Bolsters 
  • LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) 
  • Multi-stage Air Bag System 
  • Security Alarm 
  • Sentry Key Engine Immobilizer Theft Deterrent System 
  • Three-point Seat Belts 
  • UConnect® Hands-free Communication System


COLOR AVAILABILITY 

  • Stone White 
  • Bright Silver 
  • Brilliant Black 
  • Electric Blue 
  • Flame Red 
  • Inferno Red 
  • Light Khaki 
  • Mineral Gray 
  • Patriot Blue 
  • Special fleet paint capability


MANUFACTURING INFORMATION 

  • 2008 model production start: July 23, 2007 
  • Production location: Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico 
  • 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine: Cummins Engine Plant in Columbus, Ind. 
  • 6-speed automatic transmission: Aisin Transmission Facility in Ogawa, Aichi, Japan 
  • 6-speed manual transmission: Sao Bernardo do Campo Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil


MARKET POSITION
Dodge continues to conquer new territory, storming into the Class 4 and 5 segments with the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs. Designed to provide maximum uptime for commercial customers with commercial-grade performance and service, Dodge further defines the new commercial standard.

Demographics/Target Customer

Small-Business Customer 

  • Ten vehicles or less in fleet including one to three chassis cabs 
  • Entrepreneur, independent business person with hands-on management style 
  • Wants dealer to be a “one-stop” shopping point of purchase (i.e., truck, upfit and financing package)
  • • Key vocational segments include tradesmen (carpenters, electricians, roofers, HVAC, electricians, etc.); landscaping and lawn maintenance; retailers / wholesalers; agriculture / farming, manufacturing / tool and die; and service and delivery (florist, dry cleaner, package / parcel, etc.)

Small Fleet Customer 

  • Ten to 49 vehicles in fleet including three or more chassis cabs 
  • Independent manager with reliable support staff and close pulse on the business 
  • Maintains rigid fleet maintenance and repair schedules 
  • May work directly with OEM dealer commercial sales staff or large fleet representative for vehicle purchase 
  • Key vocational segments include tradesmen (carpenters, electricians, roofers, HVAC, electricians, etc.); landscaping and lawn maintenance; retailers / wholesalers; agriculture / farming, manufacturing / tool and die; service and delivery (florist, dry cleaner, package / parcel, etc.); utilities / government / municipalities; and fire/rescue/EMS


MARKET ADVANTAGES 

  • Largest standard fuel tank in segment (52 gallons) 
  • Best-in-class first-gear launch provides optimum acceleration on vehicle take-off 
  • Largest front brake rotors in segment (390 mm) 
  • Largest caliper piston size in segment (66 mm) 
  • Standard diesel exhaust brake system, together with class-leading brakes and pistons, extends brake life while giving driver increased control 
  • Flat, “clean” frame rail — all chassis components below top-of-frame surface to facilitate aftermarket upfits or retrofits 
  • Segment exclusive YES Essentials® stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric

Contact Information

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