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Ram not expected to go aluminum anytime soon

Although the upcoming 2015 Ford F-150 boasts a new aluminum chassis and body, as well as reports of the next-generation Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra going aluminum by 2018, Ram is expected to stick to its steel body through 2020.

According to a Reuters report via Automotive News, sources within Chrysler say the automaker is working on a significant refresh for its Ram pickups by 2017, but following in the tracks of its competitors and opting for a lighter aluminum body isn’t in the cards.

It would appear that Chrysler would be falling behind its competitors as a result, but by sticking to steel, the automaker is avoiding the risk of alienating pickup buyers who feel steel is stronger than aluminum. Not only that, GM and Ford can actually afford it since, unlike Chrysler, they can offset the development costs with how many pickups they sell.

In light of stricter fuel economy regulations for trucks taking effect in 2018 south of the border, Chrysler is already ahead of the competition in some ways — it offers a 3.0-litre turbodiesel on the Ram 1500, as well as an eight-speed automatic and start-stop technology.

Following the Ram’s refresh in 2017, a redesign is expected as early as 2021.

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