It’s quite a lot. It’s all for the best.
We often see many things toned down from concept to production, regardless of the vehicle. Few cars retain the look and feel of the original designs. Even fewer vehicles have made improvements to the overall concept and created something better than the first good step forward. The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX seems to be one of those rare examples. Although the Ram 1500 TRX was greeted with enthusiasm just four years ago it took much effort to bring it to the point the manufacturer desired.
MotorTrend was able to speak to Mike Gillam, head of the exterior-design department behind the Ram TRX to gain a better understanding of what has changed since the original effort. It’s interesting to note that Gillam was the one who designed, developed and built the concept truck four years ago. This makes Gillam the ideal person to ask. The differences between the concept and production trucks are that the film is better than the book. The concept truck was clearly rated at 575 horsepower. Production trucks have a total of 702.
He points out that the most obvious visual cues linking the two is the headlamps. Although the concept featured a grille from a Power Wagon heavy-duty Power Wagon, they chose to use a different graphic to make the truck wider than the original. This gives it a unique visual perspective, and a more slender front end than other Ram trucks. The ID lamps were integrated into the functional scoop of the hood, making it easier to use. Only three of them are required due to the vehicle’s width. The clearance lamps, the corner markers, were then integrated into the flares. On the front, you’ll notice that there are amber ones located on the bumper sideburns. They’re also located in the flares at the rear.
He also mentions the side exhaust, which was a great idea but not functional. They had to route it under the frame rail, which impeded some of the clearance. An exhaust pipe that is fragile should not be in a place where it can easily be damaged. The final solution was a straight rear exit exhaust with dual exits and dual, matte-black-painted dual-wall exhaust tips.
It’s all very interesting. You can find more information about Ram’s super-truck in this interview. The concept is absolutely blown away by what Ram currently has. We can’t wait for it to face its Blue Oval counterpart.