2019 Ram HD Launches with 1,000 LB-FT of Torque, Tons of Tech [UPDATE]

All-new brand Heavy Duty truck.

The 2019 Ram heavy duty has a staggering peak torque of 1,000 pound feet (1,356 Newton meters) for models with the Cummins turbodiesel Cummins 6.7-liter turbodiesel. This pickup is described as the “most powerful and most capable in its segment” due to its 400 horsepower (298kilowatts), towing capacity at 35,100 lbs., and payload capacity at 7,680 pounds.

“Ram Heavy Duty owners demand the best in order to tackle the largest jobs. With 35,100 lbs towing capacity and 1,000 lb-ft torque from our Cummins engines, we now hold some of the most important titles in the segment,” Reid Bigland (Head of Ram Brand at FCA) stated. We’ve provided luxury and technology to owners that was not possible in heavy-duty pickups. Our award-winning Uconnect technology and the highest quality interiors make this Ram 2500 truck and 3500 truck we’ve ever built.

The new generation of diesel engines is 60 lbs (27kg) lighter than the predecessor. It also features a cast-iron cylinder head, cylinder block and lighter and more powerful pistons. The package also includes a new exhaust system and a variable-geometry turbocharger.

A six-speed electronic controlled automatic gearbox, developed by Aisin, is featured on models powered by this engine. This gearbox was specifically designed to deal with the engine’s enormous torque. A detuned version is available for the diesel-drinking straight six that produces 370 horsepower (276 kW) or 850 lbft (1,152Nm) of torque. It uses a different six speed automatic.

The brand’s 6.4-liter V8 is the entry-level powertrain in the 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty. It produces 410 horsepower (306 kW) as well as 429 lb/ft (581 Nm). The engine is coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission with more than 40 individual shiftmaps.

Ram states that the suspension on Heavy Duty trucks is designed to carry heavy payloads. This makes them more difficult to drive when empty. Ram says that the company has installed new Frequency Response Damping shocks (FRD) as well as progressive springs as well as re-engineered bushings to reduce this negative effect. The 2500 and 3500 models can be fitted with the “class-leading” rear suspension system. It also features a bed-lowering mode that makes loading easier.

The new Heavy Duty is one of the most technologically advanced models within the segment, with more than 100 safety and security options. The trim level and customer preferences will determine the options available. This includes a 360-degree camera display and automatic emergency brakes. There is also an adaptive cruise control, trailer tire pressure monitor, a cargo camera, emergency trailer brakes, and an exterior camera with custom positioning inside and behind the trailer. The HD is a first in its segment. It also features back-up sensors that are specifically designed to accommodate the extra width of the 3500’s rear wheels.

The 2019 HD will also come in a Power Wagon trim, which is perfect for those who need heavy-duty hauling capabilities and off-road skills. The HD features a new suspension setup, factory suspension lifts, locking front and back differentials, disconnecting the sway bar and a winch that can pull up to 12,000 lbs.

FCA’s Uconnect4 infotainment system will be found onboard the new 2500/3500 trucks. The Ram HD, like the Ram 1500 has a 12-inch touchscreen. This large display allows you to have two applications at once, such as Apple CarPlay or HVAC controls. You can also display one application across the entire screen.

There will be four audio systems available, including a Harman Kardon 17-speaker Harman Kardon system that is 750 watts. This system can be enhanced with the active noise cancellation system and acoustic glasses, which reduce ambient noise by approximately 10 dB.

The new HD series was built in Mexico at FCA’s Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant. It will be sold with an “unsurpassed” diesel powertrain warranty for five years or 100,000 miles.