Top 10 New Features for the 2019 Ram 1500
The previous generation of the Ram 1500 pickup had a good run, and continued to sell in strong numbers despite being on the market since the 2009 model year. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles will try to build on that success with the new-generation Ram 1500, which has changed and improved in many ways. Here are 10 new features that will give the Ford F-150, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500 a run for their money.
eTorque powertrains
The 2019 Ram 1500’s base, 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine is equipped with FCA’s new eTorque mild hybrid system, and the latter is also available as an option with the 5.7-litre HEMI V8. Using a motor generator unit and a 48-volt battery pack the size of a briefcase, eTorque replaces the alternator and acts as an automatic start/stop system, in addition to assisting the gasoline engines at launch. The Ram 1500 benefits from slightly improved acceleration, improved fuel economy and seamless gear changes.
Active tuned mass modules
In order to reduce vibration inside the 2019 Ram 1500’s cockpit, especially when the V8 engine’s cylinder deactivation technology activates itself, FCA’s engineers have come up with active tuned mass modules installed onto the truck’s frame, under the front section of the cabin. These modules shake internal weights to counterbalance unwanted vibrations, making the cockpit more comfortable.
Stronger and safer frame
In addition to using more high-strength steel and aluminum in the construction of the 2019 Ram 1500’s chassis, helping to reduce overall weight by almost 225 lbs. (100 kg), the truck gets splayed and tapered frame rail technology, which absorbs energy better during a head-on collision. High-strength steel tire blockers are also installed aft of the front wheels, preventing them from crushing the cabin floor during a front-offset impact.
Active air dam
Under the front end of the 2019 Ram 1500, an active air dam extends itself downwards by 2.5 inches (63.5 mm) at 56 km/h (35 mph) to improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel consumption. When the truck slows down to 24 km/h (15 mph), the air dam rises back to its original position as to not be scraped during parking manoeuvres or when clearing speed bumps.
Blind spot monitoring with automatic trailer assist
The 2019 Ram 1500’s blind spot monitoring system can automatically detect the length of the trailer we’re towing and add it to its coverage. The system will then display the detected trailer length (10 feet, 20 feet or 30 feet) in the driver instrument cluster. We can also deactivate the auto-detect feature for trailers up to 39.5 feet long. The driver can also choose a visual (an orange triangle lights up in the rearview mirror) warning, an audible warning, or both.
Frequency Response Damping Technology
The 2019 Ram 1500’s shock absorbers include Frequency Response Damping Technology, which automatically adjust firmness according to the road surface. The shocks can stiffen up on the road for improved handling characteristics, or soften to better handle rough terrain.
Uconnect infotainment with 12-inch screen
The fourth generation of FCA’s Uconnect system is now available in the 2019 Ram 1500, and in the higher-end trim levels, it can be matched to a 12-inch touchscreen, the largest currently available in the pickup truck market. The screen can be configured in many ways and includes pinching and swiping capabilities. It also includes a split-screen function for viewing more than one menu at a time, or the navigation map and other on-screen controls.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are obviously included. In addition, the Uconnect system can be matched to a 19-speaker, 900-watt Harman Kardon surround sound system, and the 2019 Ram 1500 is the first vehicle to offer the all-new SiriusXM 360L, which features thousands of hours of on-demand content through satellite or streaming connectivity.
Power-retractable running boards
This feature has been available on Ford and GM trucks for a while now, but it’s now making its appearance on the 2019 Ram 1500. By opening one of the cab’s doors, the running boards automatically retract to help climb up inside the vehicle, and a few seconds after the doors are closed, the board returns to its detracted position.
Multifunction centre console
The 2019 Ram 1500’s redesigned centre console offers up to 12 storage combinations, with a volume of 23 to 39 litres. In addition to wireless charging for a small tablet or phone, there’s a sliding cupholder tray that conceals a storage bin big enough to accommodate a 15-inch laptop computer. Under the armrest lid, there’s space for a tablet or even hanging full-size files and folders. Five USB ports—three in front and two in back—and two 115-volt power outlets can also be found on the multifunction centre console.
Vented and reclining rear seats
In addition to heated front and rear seats, as well as ventilated front seats, the 2019 Ram 1500 also offers the option of rear-seat ventilation, with reclining seatbacks, currently a segment exclusivity.