Ram Truck announced it will expand the configuration availability of the Ram 2500 CNG to include Regular Cab and 2WD. Ram is the only manufacturer in North America to offer a factory-built compressed natural gas-powered (CNG) pickup truck. The new configurations will be available by the end of 2015.
The Ram 2500 Heavy Duty CNG pickup is designed for fleet and retail customers and offers cost and emissions benefits, using an abundant, domestically sourced fuel while reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil.
The Ram HD CNG is powered by the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and features both compressed gas storage tanks and a choice of 8-gal or 35-gal gasoline fuel tanks.
The Ram’s 5.7L HEMI bi-fuel engine has been modified to run on compressed natural gas as well as gasoline. Redesigned cylinder heads with specifically designed CNG compatible valves and valve-seat materials allow the engine to burn both fuels. It also gets a second, CNG-specific fuel rail and set of injectors. Unique spark plugs improve combustion and durability, and a unique powertrain control module allows the HEMI to seamlessly operate on either of the two fuel sources.
The Ram 2500 CNG system was fully engineered and tested by Chrysler Group and assembled at the company’s Heavy Duty truck plant in Saltillo, Mexico.
In use, the system is automatic; eliminating operator switches altogether and utilizes either CNG or gasoline, transitioning from one to the other with little discernible difference in operation or capability.
Although a small amount of gasoline is used during engine startup, the Ram CNG runs exclusively on compressed natural gas. If the CNG tanks are emptied, the vehicle will automatically switch to gasoline.
In addition to a conventional gasoline fuel gauge, a second CNG-specific gauge sits adjacent to it in the instrument cluster.
CNG-only range is 301 miles highway, while the backup supply of gasoline extends the range to 966 total miles.
The Ram 2500 Heavy Duty CNG’s two ultra-strong 4.6 cu.-ft. (130L) CNG tanks are located in the forward portion of the Ram’s 8-foot pickup bed. Both tanks are mounted to the frame and covered by a painted 50 ksi high-strength steel cover. The CNG filler connection is located next to the gasoline fuel neck, accessed through the Ram’s fuel filler door.
The CNG tanks provide a gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) of 18.2 gallons.
GGEs are calculated as having the same energy equivalent as one gallon of gasoline. CNG sold at filling stations in the U.S. is priced in dollars per GGE. A gasoline gallon equivalent of CNG is approximately 14.5L at 3600 psi.
At current prices, which are generally $1.25 less than the gallon equivalent of gasoline, CNG promises significant cost savings over the life of the truck.
The Ram 2500 CNG retains its heavy duty capability: competent towing, payload hauling and outstanding acceleration for highway merging and passing.
The Ram 2500 is delivered ready-to-tow and standard equipment includes the integrated 4- and 7-pin connectors along with a Class IV hitch receiver. The Ram CNG also comes with a trailer brake controller with customer-programmable electric or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake options.
Like every Ram 2500 Heavy Duty model, the Ram CNG’s brake system reflects distinctive advantages, with huge, oversize 14" rotors and calipers to match. Front GAWR is rated up to 5,200 lbs — ideal for northern climates requiring snow plow attachments.
