Chrysler introduces 2012 Ram 1500 Tradesman Heavy Duty

Chrysler is working hard to reinvigorate the Ram brand for industrial and commercial use to compete against the pre-existing staples: the Chevrolet Silverado and the Ford F150. As a result, Dodge has just unveiled its latest pickup variant and is said to “deliver unparalleled capability in the half-ton pickup segment.”

“The Ram 1500 Tradesman Heavy Duty is a job-rated truck with the features commercial truck buyers want at a price they can afford,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand. “The commercial truck segment is all about total cost of ownership and that includes being able to tow and haul more. It’s a simple matter of economics. More towing and payload means fewer loads. And fewer loads mean lower fuel bills.”

Powered by a 5.7L HEMI V8 good for 383hp and 400 lb-ft of torque complete with a heavy-duty radiator, larger brakes, a beefed up six-speed automatic and a standard Class IV hitch with multiple lighting connections, the Ram 1500 Tradesman HD can tow up to 11,500 lbs with an additional 3,100 lb payload. That gives it the title as the truck with the most towing capacity in its segment.

The Ram 1500 Tradesman HD will hit dealerships in the beginning of 2012 with larger variants such as the Ram 1500 Express Model—which has optional crew of quad-cab arrangements—debuting later. Prices for the base Ram 1500 Tradesman start at $23,080 while the Quad Cab bases at $28,050 and the Crew Cab at $30,210.

– By: Chris Chin