Ram 1500 Likely to Stick with Steel Through 2020

Despite the fact that Ford and GM are both switching to aluminum bodies for their pickup trucks, Ram is apparently going to stay the course with steel. 

Ram has plans to implement an extensive Ram 1500 facelift for 2017, but has no firm plans to change the materials used in its pickup truck bodies. If it does happen, it won’t be until after 2020, when the 1500 is due for a full redesign.

Weight loss is the main motivation for switching from heavy steel to lightweight aluminum. The material helped Ford shave up to 700 pounds from the F-150.

On the downside, aluminum dents much easier than steel, and many believe it is not as durable. On top of that, a major investment is required to accommodate the new material on the assembly line.

If Ram sticks with steel, the company will have to make strides in other areas to improve the fuel economy of its trucks. They are already on the right path, offering a six-cylinder diesel engine and an eight-speed transmission, but even more technology will be needed to keep up with the lightweight competition.

[Source: Automotive News]

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