Ram-2014EcoDiesel-Web

Ram spokesman Nick Cappa wrote,
We have received inquiries on weight reduction regarding half-ton trucks and a 2014 vs 2015 weight comparison from one of our competitors. ... The 2014 Ram 1500 uses aluminum in strategic locations including the hood, suspension components, engine components and drive shaft.

The more interesting story is our apples to apples weight numbers. We selected the Laramie trim since content is similar to [Ford F-150] Lariat. The Ram 1500 Laramie is a very nicely equipped truck and within our top three trim levels. The data below reflects 43-pound side steps and about 18 pounds for fuel to align with our competitor’s claim. All weights include fluids (lubricants, coolant, etc.)
DriveEngineCab/BedRam Weight
RWDV6Crew, 5’7”5,018 lb
RWDV8Crew, 5’7”5,252 lb
4x4V6Crew, 5’7”5,215 lb
4x4V8Crew, 5’7”5,445 lb
[In a] straight up comparison, the Ram 1500 Laramie weighs about 273 pounds more than an aluminum-bodied truck. We expect the weight comparison differences to shrink in other trim levels and configurations.
While Mr. Cappa did not mention Ford by name, Ram’s F-word rival’s shopping site lists weights for the model 2014 (not 2015) F-150, but only for the “Super Crew” cab with the 5’6” bed — and these curb weights are likely for the lowest trim level available with each engine. The weights vary from 5,128 lb (base V6) to 5,615 lb (turbo V6, which is heavier than the 5-liter V8). There is also a 5,774-lb 6.2 liter option.  The 2015 model-year trucks are expected to lose up to 733 lb.

While Ford has made many headlines for their extensive use of aluminum, which likely was partly enabled by their hiring of much of the Plymouth Prowler’s engineering team some years back, Ram is expected to increase its own use of aluminum and to find other methods of weight reduction, as automakers race to cut fuel economy without lowering capacity. With the weights this close, some owners may choose to avoid the higher repair costs of aluminum body panels.

Ford has promised to use SAE-standard tow ratings for its 2015 pickups, but had made and backed away from that promise earlier, as well. Ram has already released their SAE standard tow ratings, revealing that their existing ratings had been in line with the SAE numbers; Toyota switched some time ago on their Tundra.