Dodge to Launch Hybrid Ram

Dodge will be launching the ’05 Dodge Ram Contractor Special pickup with hybrid power in the fall. It will likely promote the truck to fleet customers, while limiting potential sales to the general retail market, said its parent company DaimlerChrysler.

The truck will feature a 110/220 volt AC electric motor that will provide additional power in certain driving situations. The hybrid system could boost fuel efficiency by 15% when compared with a conventional Ram truck. The electrical system can also be used as a stationary electric generator when the vehicle is parked.

Joe Eberhardt, Chrysler executive vp- global sales & marketing acknowledges that the company is taking a low-key approach in marketing the new Ram.

“It has not yet been decided whether it is going to be an ultimate production vehicle,” Eberhardt told Ward’s Automotive Reports. “The vehicle will be there and it will be available, but it is not discussed for series production.”