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In 2014, Ram became the sole manufacturer to provide a diesel engine option in the half-ton pickup truck category with its EcoDiesel model. This engine was praised for its impressive torque and outstanding fuel efficiency, giving Ram a significant sales advantage when competition was minimal. However, by 2019, the landscape had changed, with Ford introducing a diesel engine for its trucks and Chevrolet announcing plans to follow suit in the future. After a brief setback due to strict emissions regulations and other challenges, the revamped EcoDiesel engine is now available for the 2020 Ram 1500.
The new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel has been upgraded to produce 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, marking a 14 percent increase in torque and an 8 percent boost in horsepower from its predecessor. Key enhancements include a water-cooled turbocharger, an improved exhaust gas recirculation system, a reengineered sump pump, and various modifications aimed at enhancing performance, fuel efficiency, and reducing the noise and vibrations typically associated with diesel engines.
Reid Bigland, Head of Ram Brand, stated, “The new Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is America’s most powerful half-ton diesel pickup, following Ram’s Heavy Duty torque leadership and achieving what no other manufacturer has done with up to 480 lb.-ft. of torque in a 3.0-liter engine.”
The competitive landscape has evolved since the original EcoDiesel debuted in the Ram 1500. Currently, Ford offers a 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel in its F-150 lineup, which has recently expanded, and GMC and Chevrolet are set to launch their own 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engines for the 2020 model year. Additionally, the Nissan Titan XD is available with a Cummins V8 diesel engine boasting 555 pound-feet of torque.
What was once a one-man show is now a formidable segment where customer loyalty plays a significant role. While details on cost and fuel economy for the new EcoDiesel remain undisclosed, a properly equipped Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,560 pounds.
For the first time, the EcoDiesel engine will be an option on the Rebel trim, and buyers of the slightly older Ram 1500 Classic can also choose the second-generation EcoDiesel. It is anticipated that this engine will eventually be available in the Jeep Wrangler JL as well.
The 2020 EcoDiesel trucks are expected to be available for purchase in the fourth quarter of this year..
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