Is RAM Dodge?

The Dodge brand was established around 1900, but it wasn’t until about 1914 that their signature trucks went into production for Orland Park drivers. It wasn’t long before Dodge quickly became popular for reliable vehicles, especially in the truck segment of the automotive industry. So how did RAM Dodge come about? “RAM” was the original name of a Dodge light-duty truck. Learn more about RAM Dodge models and more with our team at Bettenhausen Automotive in Orland Park.

When Did Dodge and RAM Split?

In 1981, Chrysler bought Dodge, keeping their most popular models including the RAM pickup trucks. These were then named “Dodge RAM” from 1981 to 2009. Then the brand was restructured where Dodge and RAM were split into two separate vehicle lineups.

Who Owns RAM?

In 2009, Chrysler, Dodge’s parent company, chose to make RAM a stand-alone name for the pickup truck segments. This is why if you own a Dodge pickup truck made before 2009, it’s called a Dodge RAM. They’re still the same company. The main difference is that Dodge cars, SUVs, and minivans are under Dodge branding and the pickups are labeled as RAM brand.

Why Did Dodge RAM Split?

Dodge wanted to focus on building more new vehicles that could compete with models like the Jeep Wrangler and Chevy Corvette. The split allowed Dodge to build out vehicles like the Dodge Challenger and Charger muscle cars, Dodge Durango SUV, and more that became chart-toppers in New Lenox.

The Current RAM Lineup

By no means does this mean RAM has slacked on their truck lineup. As of 2020, RAM has several light-duty and commercial trucks such as:

• RAM 1500 light-duty pickup
• RAM 2500 or 3500 heavy-duty pickups
• RAM Chassis Cab
• RAM ProMaster City light-duty van
• RAM ProMaster heavy-duty van

Explore Dodge RAM Vehicles at Bettenhausen Automotive

After learning more about who owns RAM, a history of the brand, and why the brands split, check out our online inventory at Bettenhausen Automotive near Tinley Park. Our finance team can help walk you through the process and decide on the plan that’s right for you and your financial needs. Also, apply for financing online to get pre-approved for your favorite model. Have more questions in the meantime? Don’t hesitate to contact us.