The Drive has obtained several images of what seems to be Ram’s upcoming heavy-duty pickup trucks, specifically the 2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 HD. While this isn’t the first sighting of the newly designed vehicle, it is the first time we have captured detailed images of the truck’s front end.
These photos were snapped in Oxford, Michigan, which is situated roughly 15 miles north of Auburn Hills, the headquarters of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and about 80 miles northwest of the company’s Chelsea Proving Grounds. Our source indicated that there were up to three different Ram HD prototypes being tested in the area over the weekend, but the one pictured here had the least amount of camouflage. It remains unclear whether the trucks were part of a special testing program that required multiple units to be on the road, especially given that the weather was fairly mild for Michigan, at around 40 degrees and rainy, rather than ideal for cold-weather trials. A representative from Ram Trucks declined to provide any comments on the matter.
As seen in the images, the three-quarter-ton truck presents a strong and dominant stance, accentuated by its high ride height, large four-door cab, and extended bed. The front end features a grille that appears to be an updated version of the one currently found on higher trims of the Ram HD, such as the Laramie and Laramie Longhorn. However, unlike its predecessor, the new model seems to integrate either the Ram logo or the word “Ram” into the center of the grille, inferred from the rectangular piece of black camouflage covering it.
A brief internet search of the company name listed on the Ram’s door—“Roush in Livonia, Michigan”—revealed a website for Roush Industries, founded by NASCAR team owner and Hall of Famer Jack Roush. This company claims to cater to sectors such as alternative fuel, aerospace, automotive, defense, oil, gas, and renewable energy through engineering and prototyping services.
Ram has maintained a low profile regarding details on its new heavy-duty trucks, but with the 2019 North American International Auto Show in Detroit approaching, it is likely that sightings of test mules will increase, or perhaps we might see one make a grand appearance on stage at its home auto show in January.
One thing is certain: given the success of the brand’s newly launched 1500 half-ton model, the forthcoming 2500 and 3500 are expected to pose a significant challenge to competitors such as Ford and Chevrolet.
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