After years of speculation, Ram is finally bringing back a small truck to compete with the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. Production of the new model, set to replace the discontinued Dakota, will begin in 2027 at the Belvidere Plant in Illinois. The new truck will be a departure from existing compact trucks sold in other markets and is expected to be built on one of Stellantis' STLA platforms with petrol and hybrid powertrains.
After years of speculation and anticipation, Ram is finally bringing back a small truck to compete with the likes of the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger . A leaked document has confirmed that production of the long-awaited Dakota successor will commence in 2027. This new Ram model will be a departure from the existing compact trucks sold in Brazil and Mexico, marking a fresh start for the brand in this segment.
The decision to revive the Dakota nameplate comes after a tumultuous period for the Belvidere Plant in Illinois, which had been idled since 2021. Following heated negotiations and protests, Ram parent company Stellantis reached an agreement with the United Auto Workers (UAW) to restart operations at the plant. The Belvidere facility will now be the production home for this new mid-size truck, marking a significant victory for the UAW and its members. Starting in 2027, the plant will employ 1,500 workers, 200 more than those who were laid off when Cherokee production ended.While specific details are still under wraps, it is anticipated that this new Ram truck will be built on one of Stellantis' STLA platforms, possibly the STLA Medium or STLA Large. The powertrain options are expected to include a range of petrol and hybrid engines, but a fully electric variant is not currently planned. Unlike the previous Rampage 1200 sold in Brazil or the Mexican-market Ram 1200, which are based on existing platforms, this new model will be a completely new development. Expect to see more concrete information emerge throughout the year, despite production still being two years away.
RAM Truck Dakota Hilux Ranger Belvidere Plant Stellantis UAW Production 2027
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