Latest news with #HEMI
USA Today
an hour ago
- Automotive
- USA Today
The HEMI is back: Citing customer feedback, Ram returns V8 HEMI engines to 1500 pickups
The HEMI is back: Citing customer feedback, Ram returns V8 HEMI engines to 1500 pickups Show Caption Hide Caption Detroit Free Press Car, Truck, Utility of the Year revealed Decades of work by Toyota and a bold new strategy from General Motors pay off with great vehicles, all priced in the heart of the market. Ram discontinued the HEMI engine in 2024, opting for a more powerful and fuel efficient inline six-cylinder engine. Citing customer sentiment, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis said the brand would rerelease the V-8 HEMI engine in most of its pickup offerings. Kuniskis also noted a change in Ram's market approach, with an extensive focus on one-to-one retail sales with "real customers." A year after removing the HEMI, Ram is reintroducing its famous V-8 engine to its product lineup and unveiling a new logo to accompany it. At a preview event with automotive media, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis said the HEMI is coming back to Ram trucks along with a new emblem that the brand is calling a "symbol of protest," featuring a ram's head jutting out of a V-8 engine block. Rams reequipped with the HEMI engines will be available for sale this summer, the company said, in the following Ram 1500 models: Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Rebel (available later than other models), Limited and Longhorn. A year ago, Ram announced it would be discontinuing the HEMI V-8 engines in favor of a more fuel-efficient and powerful Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine. The hurricane engines also performed better under emissions regulations. That move, Kuniskis said, was a mistake. "Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it,' Kuniskis said in a statement. Both the Hurricane and HEMI engines will be available for buyers now, giving buyers a choice. Kuniskis said that the decision was informed by customer feedback. People were mad. Toyota Tundra recalls: Is Toyota's most expensive truck reliable or plagued with issues? "(Buyers) hate the fact that we took away the freedom of choice," Kuniskis said. "We as Americans, probably more so truck buyers, hate the fact that we said, 'This is the choice you get, this is the engine you're going to take.' " Kuniskis said Ram's market approach has changed to focus almost entirely on retail sales, pulling back on fleet and rental business. Kuniskis considers this the truest reflection of the automotive market, he said, referring to retail sales as "sales to real customers." As is common with Kuniskis, whose persona reflects Ram's brand identity as loud and unapologetic, he was quick to decry experts who hawk Ram's sales numbers. The decision to bring the HEMI back was made because he heard enough from people who were upset, not crafty data analytics. "At the end of each month, we count sales to customers, not statisticians or ideologues," Kuniskis said. "Data be damned — we raise our flag and let the HEMI ring free again!' added Kuniskis. Liam Rappleye covers Stellantis and the UAW. Contact him at LRappleye@
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Ram Is Back … Back in America's Motorsport … Ram Is Back in NASCAR
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ram returns to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2026, after a 13-year break, as part of a powerful product launch cadence — 25 announcements in 18 months Drive to NASCAR begins with a high-octane reveal of a new Ram 1500 concept race truck at Michigan International Speedway that includes a wild donut trailer Ram brand celebrates the HEMI® V-8's historic comeback and return to NASCAR in "Ram-Demption" marketing campaign Performance pickups are embedded in Ram's DNA: Ram 1500 RHO and TRX, Power Wagon and SRT10 Viper Truck Ram will join the field for the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, ending a 13-year break. Today, the brand unveiled a new Ram 1500 concept race truck that previews the design for next year. Returning to the racetrack marks a major milestone, part of a pedal-to-the-metal drive for Ram that covers 25 product announcements over 18 news of Ram's return to NASCAR was officially announced by Tim Kuniskis, CEO of Ram brand, during a live NASCAR event at the Michigan International Speedway this weekend. Jaw-dropping moments included a Ram 5500 hauling a custom trailer built specifically for smoky donuts, courtesy of Ram's NASCAR concept truck. Anderson Silva, Hall of Fame MMA icon, took to the track to shoot HEMI®-branded T-shirts into the crowd."For more than a decade, customers and our dealer network asked about getting back into NASCAR. The desire was always there, but we didn't have a plan that delivered the last tenth and following just didn't fit our DNA," said Kuniskis. "Now we have a solid plan that will set us apart from the field and will bring fresh new interest and engagement to America's motorsport."Joining the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, in a way that only Ram can, is a natural, strategic move for the brand, as more than 40% of NASCAR fans are truck owners. The popular and competitive race series gives Ram a high-performance showcase as it launches a series of exciting and capable new trucks."Ram returning to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is a major moment for the sport, and a sign that NASCAR remains a strong platform for blue chip brand partners," said John Probst, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. "We are excited to welcome Ram back to the sport. Its identity includes high performance, durability and innovation – characteristics that embody NASCAR and, specifically, the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series."Ram 1500 NASCAR ConceptThe Ram 1500 concept race truck unveiled today was molded by the Ram design team. The concept resembles a production truck, adopting elements from the Ram Truck Sport lineup (Warlock, Rebel and RHO), but honed with an aerodynamic signature to slip through the air efficiently, yet with enough airflow to cool a race engine that revs over 9,000 rpm. Body lines around the fenders and grille carry a familiar appearance, framing a large Ram logo that separates this truck from the one-off body design is covered by a two-tone Gloss Black canvas with Molten Red lower. The Ram design team created an impactful and exciting livery that complements the visual emotion of Ram's design DNA and highlights Direct Connection and Symbol of Protest logos. Mopar's Direct Connection aftermarket unit is adding performance options for Ram trucks and earns prominent signage on the concept race truck."There will be more details on our NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program later this year," added Kuniskis. "We are undoubtedly having fun with this project, and I truly look forward to sharing information on our team and how getting back on track relates to the future of Ram performance."In conjunction with the news, the brand showed off its "Ram-Demption" campaign, featuring Kuniskis behind the wheel of Ram's NASCAR concept truck at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina, with the iconic Goodyear Blimp and jets flying overhead. Different versions of the "Ram-Demption" video include 60-second, 30-second and 15-second spots that will run across NASCAR media and the Ram brand's social media channels, plus a long-form video running on and on YouTube. "Ram-Demption" was created in partnership with Argonaut racing news is part of a power celebration that includes a popular demand return of the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, as orders open for the engine's availability in the 2026 Ram exited factory support of NASCAR's CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012 after a 17-year run and focused on launching the new 2013 Ram 1500. Ram's return is one part of a strategy to build on the greatest variety of sport trucks and off-road enthusiast trucks the brand has ever boasts a rich history of performance trucks, including the Power Wagon, SRT10 Viper Truck, TRX, RHO, Rumble Bee, Little Red Express and 2004, a Ram SRT-10, piloted by NASCAR driver Brendan Gaughan, set a Guinness World Record for the world's fastest production truck with an average speed of 154.587 mph (248.784 km/h) at the Stellantis Proving Grounds in Chelsea, Mich. Ram BrandRam offers a full lineup of pickups and commercial vehicles; the Ram 1500, 2500/3500 Heavy Duty, 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab and ProMaster Ram Light-Duty and Heavy Duty pickups are considerably improved for 2025 and offer new products in the fastest growing segment within the pickup space—Sport Trucks. Ram introduced the largest variety of off-road performance trucks the brand has ever offered, including the new Ram 1500 RHO with more horsepower per dollar than any other performance off-road the commercial business, Ram is launching the new 2025 Chassis Cab line with improvements to help customers and upfitters. Ram Professional is making considerable changes in process, execution and resources with a focus on commercial offerings, dedicated B2B-focused expertise, and sales and service support, which are critical to growing in this continues to outperform the competition, setting the benchmark in the most important areas for truck buyers: Segment-first: 1,000 lb.-ft of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel Most luxurious: Ram 1500 Tungsten with air suspension, 24-way massage seats and 540 horsepower Ram 1500 and Heavy Duty: Best ride and handling with five-link solid rear axle with available, segment-exclusive, active-level air suspension Ram 1500 RHO: Best off-road performance per dollar Ram ProMaster: The most cargo space available in any traditional full size cargo van Ram Power Wagon: Most off-road capable full-size pickup Ram is improving market competitiveness and growth while maintaining pricing power through products, services and electrified offerings. Aligned under the global presence of the Stellantis Pro One commercial vehicle organization, Ram currently offers a wide range of products globally, from the Ram 700 compact pickup to the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab and a range of ProMaster is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit Follow Ram and company news and video on:Company blog: website: Truck brand: @RamTrucks, @StellantisNAYouTube: For more information, please visit the Stellantis media site for North America at Contact:Nick Cappa(248) 512-4266 (office)(248) 202-8039 (cell) View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Stellantis Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The Legend Returns: 2026 Ram 1500 Offers 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 eTorque Engine with Proven Performance and Capability
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ram has opened orders for the return of the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 in the 2026 Ram 1500, a direct result of customer input 5.7-liter HEMI is rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft of torque, featuring eTorque hybrid technology Available for order now, Ram 1500 with HEMI V-8 arrives at dealerships this summer Today, Ram announces the return of the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8, beginning with the 2026 Ram 1500. Ordering for HEMI-equipped Ram 1500 trucks is now open. The first trucks with the V-8 powertrain arrive at dealerships this summer. "Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines you. Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it," said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand. "We're not just bringing back a legendary V-8 engine, we're igniting an assertive product plan and expanding the freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers." The Ram 1500 lineup shifted to six-cylinder engines for the 2025 model year. Consumer sentiment for the legendary engine created momentum to bring the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 back to the Ram 1500. "Ram will continue to offer the more powerful and more efficient Hurricane Straight Six Turbo, but we heard loud and clear from consumers: there is no replacement for the iconic HEMI V-8. At the end of each month, we count sales to customers, not to statisticians or ideologues. Data be damned — we raise our flag and let the HEMI ring free again!," added Kuniskis. Each HEMI-powered 2026 Ram 1500 includes a new fender-mounted Symbol of Protest badge created by the Ram design team. The badge outlines the Ram's head pushing forward, powered by a HEMI V-8 block. The HEMI will be available in 2026 model-year Ram 1500 Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Rebel (late availability), Limited and Longhorn as part of the brand's aggressive product cadence covering the next 18 months. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque in a smooth, broad power band, enhanced with fuel-saving technologies that include variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation. The eTorque hybrid system is a class-exclusive, available V-8 hybrid. The system replaces the traditional engine-mounted alternator with a belt-driven motor generator unit. The motor generator unit works with a 48-volt battery pack to provide quick and seamless engine start/stop, torque addition to the engine crankshaft in certain driving situations and brake energy regeneration, which improves responsiveness and efficiency. The system enables up to 130 lb.-ft. of torque to be available on initial throttle tip-in. Performance-enhancing features include variable-valve timing, Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation) and an 850-watt electric cooling fan using Pulse Width Modulation to tailor the fan's energy draw to the cooling demand. Intelligent eTorque IntegrationThe eTorque hybrid system stores energy in a compact, 430-watt-hour lithium-ion battery, housed in a noise-insulated enclosure behind the rear seat. Air-cooled and internally vented, the system uses dual cooling fans to maintain optimal battery temperatures while remaining acoustically transparent to passengers. A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter steps down the 48 volts to charge the truck's conventional 12-volt battery and power accessories. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 retains a traditional starter motor for cold-weather starts. eTorque's benefits extend beyond start/stop. It enhances shifts, improves fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and smooths transitions under acceleration and braking, helping reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The new engine option offers a towing capacity of up to 11,470 pounds and maximum payload capacity of 1,750 pounds. Freedom of Choice PowertrainThe 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 is value-packaged with a performance-tuned exhaust system and 33-gallon fuel tank. The HEMI is a no-charge upgrade for Limited and Longhorn models. Ram BrandRam offers a full lineup of pickups and commercial vehicles; the Ram 1500, 2500/3500 Heavy Duty, 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab and ProMaster vans. The Ram Light-Duty and Heavy Duty pickups are considerably improved for 2025 and offer new products in the fastest growing segment within the pickup space—Sport Trucks. Ram introduced the largest variety of off-road performance trucks the brand has ever offered, including the new Ram 1500 RHO with more horsepower per dollar than any other performance off-road pickup. In the commercial business, Ram is launching the new 2025 Chassis Cab line with improvements to help customers and upfitters. Ram Professional is making considerable changes in process, execution and resources with a focus on commercial offerings, dedicated B2B-focused expertise, and sales and service support, which are critical to growing in this segment. Ram continues to outperform the competition, setting the benchmark in the most important areas for truck buyers: Segment-first: 1,000 lb.-ft of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel Most luxurious: Ram 1500 Tungsten with air suspension, 24-way massage seats and 540 horsepower Ram 1500 and Heavy Duty: Best ride and handling with five-link solid rear axle with available, segment-exclusive, active-level air suspension Ram 1500 RHO: Best off-road performance per dollar Ram ProMaster: The most cargo space available in any traditional full size cargo van Ram Power Wagon: Most off-road capable full-size pickup Ram is improving market competitiveness and growth while maintaining pricing power through products, services and electrified offerings. Aligned under the global presence of the Stellantis Pro One commercial vehicle organization, Ram currently offers a wide range of products globally, from the Ram 700 compact pickup to the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab and a range of ProMaster vans. Ram is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit Follow Ram and company news and video on:Company blog: website: Truck brand: @RamTrucks, @StellantisNAYouTube: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Stellantis
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Ram announces reentry to NASCAR Truck Series, unveils concept race truck to race this year
Ram is officially moving back to NASCAR after leaving 13 years ago, the company announced. The Ram brand said that it will begin its reentry in the NASCAR truck series, unveiling a newly developed Ram 1500 concept race truck in a black-and-red color scheme. Ram Brand CEO Tim Kuniskis announced the decision last week to reenter the market at a private media event, anticipating a public announcement at Michigan International Speedway on June 8. "We figured we might as well go back to racing, back to America's motorsport, back to NASCAR," Kuniskis said. "First with truck, with the intention to go to (NASCAR Cup Series) after that." The return to NASCAR marks the second time in a week that Kuniskis has decided to reverse course on previous decisions made by Ram. On Thursday, June 5, the brand announced it would be returning the HEMI engine to its 1500 pickup trucks one year after removing them. The HEMI is back: Citing customer feedback, Ram returns V8 HEMI engines to 1500 pickups While the truck shown to the news media is still officially a concept truck, Kuniskis said he expects a short timeline for a Ram vehicle to take to the tracks at a NASCAR race. "We've been working on this for a while. That's the real truck, we didn't cobble that up," Kuniskis said, gesturing toward the concept vehicle. "We'll be on track in Daytona in eight months." In video advertisements, Kuniskis is depicted behind the wheel of the new race truck, though he said he won't be the one racing Ram's vehicles. In fact, Ram has yet to select a racing team. Analysts: Ford May sales surge indicates its made-in-America marketing is working, for now "I got a truck. I got the attention. I'm writing a deal with NASCAR, I'm going to Daytona," Kuniskis said. "How I'm actually going to do that? What's my team going to be? How am I going to do it? I don't know. We're looking for a date to the prom right now." Liam Rappleye covers Stellantis and the UAW. Contact him at LRappleye@ This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Ram will officially be rejoining the NASCAR Truck Series
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Ram Is Back … Back in America's Motorsport … Ram Is Back in NASCAR
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ram returns to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2026, after a 13-year break, as part of a powerful product launch cadence — 25 announcements in 18 months Drive to NASCAR begins with a high-octane reveal of a new Ram 1500 concept race truck at Michigan International Speedway that includes a wild donut trailer Ram brand celebrates the HEMI® V-8's historic comeback and return to NASCAR in "Ram-Demption" marketing campaign Performance pickups are embedded in Ram's DNA: Ram 1500 RHO and TRX, Power Wagon and SRT10 Viper Truck Ram will join the field for the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, ending a 13-year break. Today, the brand unveiled a new Ram 1500 concept race truck that previews the design for next year. Returning to the racetrack marks a major milestone, part of a pedal-to-the-metal drive for Ram that covers 25 product announcements over 18 news of Ram's return to NASCAR was officially announced by Tim Kuniskis, CEO of Ram brand, during a live NASCAR event at the Michigan International Speedway this weekend. Jaw-dropping moments included a Ram 5500 hauling a custom trailer built specifically for smoky donuts, courtesy of Ram's NASCAR concept truck. Anderson Silva, Hall of Fame MMA icon, took to the track to shoot HEMI®-branded T-shirts into the crowd."For more than a decade, customers and our dealer network asked about getting back into NASCAR. The desire was always there, but we didn't have a plan that delivered the last tenth and following just didn't fit our DNA," said Kuniskis. "Now we have a solid plan that will set us apart from the field and will bring fresh new interest and engagement to America's motorsport."Joining the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, in a way that only Ram can, is a natural, strategic move for the brand, as more than 40% of NASCAR fans are truck owners. The popular and competitive race series gives Ram a high-performance showcase as it launches a series of exciting and capable new trucks."Ram returning to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is a major moment for the sport, and a sign that NASCAR remains a strong platform for blue chip brand partners," said John Probst, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. "We are excited to welcome Ram back to the sport. Its identity includes high performance, durability and innovation – characteristics that embody NASCAR and, specifically, the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series."Ram 1500 NASCAR ConceptThe Ram 1500 concept race truck unveiled today was molded by the Ram design team. The concept resembles a production truck, adopting elements from the Ram Truck Sport lineup (Warlock, Rebel and RHO), but honed with an aerodynamic signature to slip through the air efficiently, yet with enough airflow to cool a race engine that revs over 9,000 rpm. Body lines around the fenders and grille carry a familiar appearance, framing a large Ram logo that separates this truck from the one-off body design is covered by a two-tone Gloss Black canvas with Molten Red lower. The Ram design team created an impactful and exciting livery that complements the visual emotion of Ram's design DNA and highlights Direct Connection and Symbol of Protest logos. Mopar's Direct Connection aftermarket unit is adding performance options for Ram trucks and earns prominent signage on the concept race truck."There will be more details on our NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program later this year," added Kuniskis. "We are undoubtedly having fun with this project, and I truly look forward to sharing information on our team and how getting back on track relates to the future of Ram performance."In conjunction with the news, the brand showed off its "Ram-Demption" campaign, featuring Kuniskis behind the wheel of Ram's NASCAR concept truck at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina, with the iconic Goodyear Blimp and jets flying overhead. Different versions of the "Ram-Demption" video include 60-second, 30-second and 15-second spots that will run across NASCAR media and the Ram brand's social media channels, plus a long-form video running on and on YouTube. "Ram-Demption" was created in partnership with Argonaut racing news is part of a power celebration that includes a popular demand return of the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, as orders open for the engine's availability in the 2026 Ram exited factory support of NASCAR's CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012 after a 17-year run and focused on launching the new 2013 Ram 1500. Ram's return is one part of a strategy to build on the greatest variety of sport trucks and off-road enthusiast trucks the brand has ever boasts a rich history of performance trucks, including the Power Wagon, SRT10 Viper Truck, TRX, RHO, Rumble Bee, Little Red Express and 2004, a Ram SRT-10, piloted by NASCAR driver Brendan Gaughan, set a Guinness World Record for the world's fastest production truck with an average speed of 154.587 mph (248.784 km/h) at the Stellantis Proving Grounds in Chelsea, Mich. Ram BrandRam offers a full lineup of pickups and commercial vehicles; the Ram 1500, 2500/3500 Heavy Duty, 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab and ProMaster Ram Light-Duty and Heavy Duty pickups are considerably improved for 2025 and offer new products in the fastest growing segment within the pickup space—Sport Trucks. Ram introduced the largest variety of off-road performance trucks the brand has ever offered, including the new Ram 1500 RHO with more horsepower per dollar than any other performance off-road the commercial business, Ram is launching the new 2025 Chassis Cab line with improvements to help customers and upfitters. Ram Professional is making considerable changes in process, execution and resources with a focus on commercial offerings, dedicated B2B-focused expertise, and sales and service support, which are critical to growing in this continues to outperform the competition, setting the benchmark in the most important areas for truck buyers: Segment-first: 1,000 lb.-ft of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel Most luxurious: Ram 1500 Tungsten with air suspension, 24-way massage seats and 540 horsepower Ram 1500 and Heavy Duty: Best ride and handling with five-link solid rear axle with available, segment-exclusive, active-level air suspension Ram 1500 RHO: Best off-road performance per dollar Ram ProMaster: The most cargo space available in any traditional full size cargo van Ram Power Wagon: Most off-road capable full-size pickup Ram is improving market competitiveness and growth while maintaining pricing power through products, services and electrified offerings. Aligned under the global presence of the Stellantis Pro One commercial vehicle organization, Ram currently offers a wide range of products globally, from the Ram 700 compact pickup to the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab and a range of ProMaster is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit Follow Ram and company news and video on:Company blog: website: Truck brand: @RamTrucks, @StellantisNAYouTube: For more information, please visit the Stellantis media site for North America at Contact:Nick Cappa(248) 512-4266 (office)(248) 202-8039 (cell) View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Stellantis Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
