It is obvious now – Ram 1500 is the main rival of the legendary Ford F-150. Well, it is a long way to go, but the latest events are proving that. First of all, while the entire automotive world was watching the debut of F-150 diesel, Ram’s truck introduced its engine that uses the same fuel type. Also, now everyone is talking about the next step. Rumors are bringing the possibility of Ford’s hybrid truck. On the other side, it is not a rumor – the 2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid is coming.
Electric system of the 2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid is not ready yet. However, engineers have a clear idea what they want. Next year fans will get a truck with the mild-hybrid system. In future, the pickup will grow into a plug-in version, and we guess, electric model after 2021. Fuel efficiency is a priority here, so we can’t wait to see official mpg rating. With it, 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid could be the most fuel-friendly truck on the market. The pickup will be greener as well.
2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid System
The current lineup of the Ram 1500 truck is using a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine. The alternative is a 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi unit. Each of these will get an electric motor as a support. But, is it possible? What would the driver get? Is it going to cost too much?
Well, FCA wouldn’t take this job if it is not profitable. Also, Ram is not going to jeopardize its reputation, especially nowadays. Experts are sure that the carmaker will play safe. That means proven systems. The 2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid will borrow it from Chrysler Pacifica minivan. A 16 kW battery will boost mileage of the Ram 1500 truck. On the other hand, hybrid setup will probably downgrade the power output.
Mileage
The new pickup is lighter from its predecessor. Weight drops for 220 pounds. This is the first thing that will lead to better fuel economy. However, the company still didn’t come out with official mpg numbers.
The 2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid will push it to even better results. For example, truck for 2018 season returns 21 mpg combined. Weight savings could add 1-2 mpg.
We will compare it to Chrysler Pacifica hybrid. The same 3.6-liter engine Ram 1500 is using can return 23 mpg in a minivan. With a help from electric motors, buyers of Pacifica are getting almost 10 mpg more. For many reasons, we doubt that Ram 1500 will get such boost.
2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid Towing Capacity
One of the things, why we will see the truck as a mild-hybrid, is a towing capacity. The Ram 1500 is already short of it compared to its main rivals, Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado. Dropping it further would make a further damage. So, the company decides to launch a mild version of 2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid. With it, the truck will still have a chance to keep up the pace with its competition.
2019 Ram 1500 Hybrid Hemi
But, what is happening if Ram installs the hybrid system on its 5.7-liter Hemi engine? Pickup with such power will definitely welcome a mileage boost. Since it returns 18 mpg in 2WD configuration, every additional mile is a jackpot. Well, this is a long shot, but we couldn’t believe that Ram 1500 will appear so quick with a diesel engine, did we?