Dodge Unveils 'Big Red Truck'; Turbo-Diesel Ram Showcases Engine Upgrade Option for 1998
7 January 1998
Dodge Unveils 'Big Red Truck'; Turbo-Diesel Ram Showcases Engine Upgrade Option for 1998
DETROIT, Jan. 7 -- Turbo Heads will salivate when they see
Big Red Truck hauling their way. Armed with the new Cummins 24-Valve Turbo
Diesel Engine and a towing capacity that exceeds 11,000 pounds, Dodge's latest
big-shouldered show truck was unveiled today at the North American
International Auto Show in Detroit.
Dodge Big Red Truck is the towing enthusiast's dream vehicle for over-the-
road hauling. It's a brawny Dodge Ram Quad Cab show truck with a new Cummins
diesel powerplant. Now available on 1998 Ram pickups, this upgraded engine is
a 5.9-liter, in-line six cylinder, 24-valve, electronically fuel-injected,
intercooled turbo diesel engine.
"Big Red Truck provides the perfect package for us to introduce our
powerful new Cummins diesel engine for the 1998 Dodge Ram pickup," said Ray
Fisher, General Manager of the Dodge Division. "This show vehicle personifies
what Dodge trucks are all about -- bold, powerful and capable."
The new turbo diesel is the next generation of legendary B Series Cummins
engines. The 24-Valve Turbo Diesel Engine features a new electronic fuel
system and electronic integration which will offer Dodge diesel customers
increased horsepower and torque over a broader power range.
The new turbo diesel generates 235 horsepower at only 2700 rpm - 20
horsepower increase over the previous engine. A broader torque curve means
hitting an awesome 460 lbs-ft at 1600 rpms. In addition, the new 24-valve
Turbo Diesel Engine improves fuel economy up to five percent as a result of
its cylinder-centered fuel injection which improves combustion efficiency.
When conceiving the revolutionary design of the Ram pickup truck five
years ago, Dodge designers used over-the-road big rigs as their initial design
inspiration. When styling Big Red Truck, they took it one step further.
Big Red Truck is painted Flame Red, the signature color of the Dodge
brand. Its bold cross-hair grille is modified but instantly-recognizable as a
Dodge Ram. Its front fascia has an aggressive look and incorporates energy
absorbers, tow hooks, high-power fog lamps, and an air dam.
One of Big Red Truck's most notable design features is its gradually-
sloping, 18-inch-high aero raised roof that extends back from the windshield,
giving the vehicle the appearance of a powerful semi tractor. A flush,
forward-edge light bar is incorporated into the roof and runs the width of the
windshield's top edge. Side engine exhausters run under the integrated, self-
cleaning steps and cold air intakes are seamlessly styled into the truck's
modified hood. Both indicate a seriously potent powertrain.
Built as the ultimate tow vehicle, Big Red Truck features integrated
trailer tow mirrors, a fifth wheel hitch and sport valance. Sixteen-inch
wheels combined with LT255/85R16 sized tires (three sizes larger than
standard) add 1 1/2 inches of road clearance. Fender flares, rear dually
fenders and raised bed rails with tie-down handles are seamlessly integrated
into the vehicle's design.
Because Big Red Truck was built for the long haul, interior designers
focused on maximizing interior space and comfort. Its raised aero roof
provides additional room for overhead storage and improved head room.
Features include a swing-down six-inch flat-screen LCD TV, VCR with remote
control, CB radio, rear audio with headphones, and, of course, four hot/cold
cupholders.
Designers lengthened the rear of the cab eight inches by extending it over
Big Red Truck's eight-foot box. Additional cab space allowed them to
incorporate a rear row of Mist Gray leather seats. And, by removing the
center console from between the front driver and passenger seat, an access-way
was created between the front and rear seats.
Dodge Big Red Truck Specifications:
Vehicle Dodge Ram Quad Cab 3500 4X4
GVWR (lb.) 11,000
GCWR (lb.) 18,000
GAWR (lb.) Front 4,500
Rear 7,500
Payload (lb.) 4,500
Wheelbase 155"
Engine Cummins 24-Valve Intercooled Turbo Diesel
Power 235 hp @ 2700 rpm
Torque 460 lb.-ft. Torque @ 1600-2700 rpm
Transmission NV4500HD 5-Speed Manual
Modifications Raised Aero Roof Extension
Cab length is increased eight inches
Roof raised 18 inches
Front row bucket seats
Rear seats are 40/20/40
Amenities Include: Video cassette player, monitor,
CB radio, rear audio/video controls, headphones,
and rear power outlets
Halo lighting effect along upper packaging shelf
area
Additional overhead storage
Raised theater-style seating for rear passengers
SOURCE Chrysler Corporation