1999 Dodge Ram...Continued

Corrosion-resistant galvannealed steel is used in all areas except the roof and is protected by a multiple-step anticorrosion process. The front rails of the Ram Van have been extended to move the V-8 engine forward, minimizing intrusion into the interior while enhancing crash performance.

While this portion of the overall vehicle market may be less glamorous, Ram Van and Wagon serve a very real purpose for many parts of both the work and leisure market. This vehicle is popular not only as a part of large delivery fleets for major corporations, but also as the single vehicle for the local plumber or electrician. To meet those requirements, Dodge developed its, "Factory Upfitter Package" which includes an adaptable shelving and cargo carrying system specifically designed for single-vehicle commercial customers on a budget.

A smaller portion of the market responds to the need for full-sized wagons. The primary source of sales are to transit companies, schools, and civic and religious organizations, which use them as people movers. The Dodge Ram Wagon, sold in 8-, 12- and 15-passenger configurations, captures about one-third of the market.

The big chunk of the van market is the conversion van business -- where vehicles are retro-fitted by conversion companies and marketed through Dodge dealers for personal use applications. "We joined forces with our fleet, conversion and commercial customers to focus on improving upon what they believed were the core elements of the vehicle," said Rich Schaum, General Manager Truck Engineering. "From their list of needs, we built a vehicle that is quieter, tighter, rides better and is more enjoyable to operate."

The natural gas Dodge Ram Van and Wagon returns after a two-year absence. The 1999 NG Ram Van will not only meet the even cleaner Super Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) requirements, but will be offered at a significantly reduced price due to advances in fuel storage technology.

Interior design improvements are highlighted by a new instrument panel with next-generation dual airbags, new upper-range speakers, more conveniently located controls and switches and optimized gauge placement. Vehicle ride and handling is further improved via a re-tuned front and rear suspension, which also yields increased gross vehicle weight ratings.

Engine offerings for the Ram Van and Wagon include the Magnum 3.9-liter V6, 5.2-liter V8, and 5.9-liter V8. The 5.9-liter engine features a new camshaft that boosts output to 245 horsepower and 335 ft.-lbs. of torque. The V8's have electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmissions, while the V-6 has a three-speed automatic.