2023 RAM 1500 3.6L Pentastar

RAM, the American brand, took center stage at the ninth round of the 2023 MXGP Championship in Teutschenthal, captivating the enthusiastic crowd. The event showcased RAM’s latest offering to the European market: the new 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 engine with a mild eTorque system. This launch event not only introduced the powerful engine but also highlighted the customization options available across the RAM range. The engine, featuring 205 HP and 364 Nm of torque, will be offered in Europe on three iconic RAM models: the RAM 1500 Big Horn, RAM 1500 Laramie, and RAM 1500 Rebel.

Key Features of the 3.6-Litre Pentastar V6 eTorque Engine

The Pentastar V-6 eTorque engine brings several advancements and demonstrates the impact of electronics on traditional powertrains. With 305 HP of power and 364 Nm of torque, this new engine solution offers remarkable energy savings through its innovative mild hybrid eTorque system, which replaces the conventional alternator. The engine is powered by a 430 Wh lithium-ion battery pack utilizing a nickel manganese cobalt (NMC)/graphite chemistry. It operates at a 48V current during acceleration and gear shifts. Additionally, a 3kW DC-DC converter maintains a traditional 12V starter motor for cold starts, ensuring high efficiency even in extreme temperatures.

The stop-start function of the Pentastar V-6 engine operates swiftly, delivering excellent fuel efficiency while maintaining superior performance. Compared to the 5.7-litre V8 engine, the Pentastar V-6 engine boasts a 19% reduction in combined fuel consumption. Advanced technologies like wide variable valve timing and two-stroke variable valve lift contribute to an ideal balance of power and fuel economy based on driver demand. The engine’s cooled exhaust gas recirculation system minimizes fuel consumption and emissions during higher loads, while the 11.3:1 compression ratio enhances power, efficiency, and performance. Energy recovery from deceleration and braking increases towing capacity and payload while recharging the battery pack. Additionally, the crankshaft’s additional torque ensures reduced noise, vibration, and vehicle harshness (NVH). These elements collectively result in efficient consumption management and a captivating driving experience, appealing to a wide customer base, including younger drivers seeking high-performance vehicles with aggressive aesthetics.

RAM 1500 Models Featuring the New Engine

The innovative 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 eTorque engine will be available on three flagship RAM models: RAM 1500 Big Horn, RAM 1500 Laramie, and RAM 1500 Rebel. The RAM 1500 Rebel, designed for off-road enthusiasts, boasts advanced features such as a sporty bonnet, coil spring suspension with a 1″ lift, 10″ ground clearance, 33″ Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires, Hill Descent Control, and Selec-Speed Control. It offers three engine options, including the 3.6-litre eTorque V6 and 5.8-litre V8 Hemi, with eye-catching interior designs featuring red trim.

The RAM 1500 Laramie excels in performance, payload capacity, technology, and premium finishes, making it one of the best-selling models in Europe. It offers three engine options: a 3.6-litre eTorque V6, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 (also available with eTorque), and exceptional technological features such as a 12″ touchscreen, remote start, Advanced Brake Assist, and Forward Collision Warning with Active Breaking. The Laramie prioritizes comfort with heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist.

The RAM 1500 Big Horn, featuring bumpers, halogen headlights (with optional LED lights), and a chrome grille molding and bar, offers customization options through Sport and Black Appearance packs, enabling a unique look. The interior provides two customization choices, including a closed storage compartment with Big Horn badging, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, and an 8.4″ multifunction Uconnect touchscreen. The Big Horn model accommodates five passengers with bucket seats or six passengers with bench seats.

Marketing the RAM 3.6-Litre eTorque Pentastar V6 Engine in Europe

RAM vehicles equipped with the 3.6-litre eTorque Pentastar V6 engine will be available in Europe through the AEC and KWA networks, serving as RAM’s International Commercial Partners for the season.

A Memorable Day for RAM

The European launch of the new engine coincided with RAM’s role as the official partner of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team for the 2023 season. RAM organized a walkaround event, allowing attendees to test drive a RAM 1500 Big Horn with the new engine. The excitement continued with a thrilling track experience alongside Tony Cairoli, the KTM Team Manager, who led a test drive aboard the powerful RAM 1500 TRX Havoc. A “meet and greet” opportunity with the fans showcased the shared values and spirit between RAM and the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team. The exclusive Skybox Gold VIP package offered visitors a chance to explore the paddocks, interact with riders and technicians, and access the exclusive Skybox Terrace located behind the starting grid.

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