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| A sliding door and solid rear quarter panels allow for easy access,
secure cargo area, and a broad canvas for business brand logos. |
For 2012, Dodge will launch a new minivan tailored to the Class 1 commercial van market, competing directly with the Ford Transit Connect.
The Ram Cargo Van—or Ram C/V—has an 1800 lb. payload, similar to that of a fullsize pickup, and a 144-cubic-foot cargo capacity.
The aluminum rear load deck is big enough to accommodate a 4x8 sheet of plywood or drywall, making the Ram Van a larger, more capable Class 1 option, and with a lower total cost of ownership than a Class 2 van.
The Ram Cargo Van is expected to find favor among small business owners who need the security of an enclosed cargo space. In addition, the van can tow up to 3600 lbs.
The vehicle has a solid sliding door and rear quarter window and backlight privacy panels in place of clear glass windows, and a structural aluminum rear load floor.
Two flooring options will be available, including one with a flat, uninterrupted, high-capacity surface. A second, optional floor provides through-the-floor access to three exclusive storage bins and load floor tie-downs.
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| The Ram Cargo Van is equipped with a flat load floor that can accommodate a 4x8 sheet of plywood. |
The Cargo Van has been upgraded with a heavy-duty suspension, heavy-duty radiator and heavy-duty transmission oil cooler to help meet heavier power train demands.
Ram C/V is also engineered with unique hydraulic power-assist rack-and-pinion steering, front anti-sway bar and rear twist-beam axle with coil springs. The vehicle has a maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 8,750 lbs. and is powered by Dodge’s 3.6L Pentastar V-6, which produces 283 horsepower.
The Ram Cargo Van is rated to deliver 17/25 mpg, and with a 20-gallon fuel tank, has a theoretical range of 500 miles between fillups.
Built at the Chrysler Group Windsor Assembly plant, the Ram Cargo Van will be available at Dodge dealerships starting late 2011.