2019 RAM 1500 Wins RMAP Truck of the Year Award
FCA to Expand U.S. Production for Electrification & Jeep Wagoneer
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles announce a $4.5 billion plan to build a new assembly plant and add production to existing U.S. plants.
FCA says ” …next step in Company’s U.S. industrialization plan, announced in 2016 to expand Jeep® and Ram brands.”
A new FCA assembly plant is planned for Detroit. According to Automotive News, it’s not a done deal yet. FCA is currently working with the City of Detroit to acquire around 200 acres of land.
Preparing for hybrids
Mack Avenue Engine plant will re-open with a $1.6 billion investment. This will be the manufacturing site for the next generation Jeep Grand Cherokee, a 3rd row SUV and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). This plant would potentially provide 3,850 jobs. Assuming land
An overhaul of this plant means it’ll be the first new assembly plant in Detroit city in nearly 30 years.
The rendering is of the new Mack Avenue FCA Assembly Complex once the company invests $1.6 billion to convert the two plants into the future assembly site for the next-generation Jeep® Grand Cherokee, as well as an all-new three-row full-size Jeep SUV and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, adding 3,850 new jobs to support production. Photo
Mike Manley, Chief Executive Officer also says, ” It allows Jeep to enter two white space segments…and will enable new electrified Jeep products, including at least four plug-in hybrid vehicles and the flexibility to produce fully battery-electric vehicles.”
Modernizing and re-tooling Jefferson North
The Jefferson North FCA Assembly plant gets $900 million to modernize and retool. This is where the Next generation Jeep Grand Cherokee’s and Dodge Durango’s will be built. Jefferson North is will create around 1,100 new jobs.
Warren Truck plant prepares for new Jeep
The 3.31 million square feet plant currently produces RAM 1500’s. Moving forward, FCA is investing $1.5 billion in the plant to produce the all-new Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. Warren Truck will also have the capability to electrified counterparts and produce RAM Heavy Duty trucks creating 1,400 new jobs.
Production of Jeep Wagoneer’s and Grand W
Warren Stamping is to get $245 million and Sterling Stamping $160 million and 80 new jobs further supporting production.
FCA’s total commitment to investing in the U.S. will reach nearly $14.5 billion since 2009 along with 30,000 jobs created.
WY Bill Allowing Aftermarket Parts Could Affect Warranty and Safety
Bill SF0095 – Aftermarket parts.
Update 02/28/2019:
Died in Committee Returned Bill Pursuant to HR 5-4
Jan 29th, 2019, a third reading passed for Wyoming Bill SF0095. The bill allows for the use of aftermarket parts to be used in collision repairs.
Aftermarket parts mean parts that are not from the vehicle manufacturer (non-OEM). For example, any replacement/blueprint part(s) purchased from a 3rd party parts distributor including online parts stores.
Here is how the bill defines the term.
“(i) “Aftermarket part” means any non‑OEM sheet metal or plastic parts that generally constitute the exterior of a motor vehicle, including inner and outer panels. “Aftermarket part” shall not include tires, windshields or windows;”
The saying, ‘you get what you pay for’ can be true in these instances.
Some aftermarket may be of equal or even better quality, but some parts are a lot cheaper. They are cheaper for a reason. Most likely built from cheaper, lesser quality material.
Aftermarket parts may not fit correctly and/or leave varying panel gaps.
Aftermarket parts could affect the safety of your vehicle.
Ford Motor Co has researched the use of aftermarket parts. “All components of the vehicle structure are designed and tested to work together in a real-world collision,” said FCSD Collision Product Team Manager Lisa Fournier. “Any significant deviations from engineering specifications, such as changes in materials, forming processes, dimensional inaccuracies and any structural differences, along with how it is repaired, can dramatically alter the crash characteristics of a vehicle.”
Part of the Wyoming bill reads as follows;
26‑13‑403. Use of aftermarket parts.
(a) An insurer shall not require the use of aftermarket parts in the repair of an automobile unless the aftermarket part is at least equal in kind and quality to the original part in terms of fit, quality
Who is to determine the quality of the non -OEM parts used?
“ (b) An insurer shall not be required to pay any additional cost of an original equipment manufacturer part when an aftermarket part equal in kind and quality in terms of fit, quality
This implies that an auto insurance company does not have to pay for replacing OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts if cheaper aftermarket ones are available. If the customer requires OEM parts fitted, they may have to pay the difference (depending on the insurance policy).
How will aftermarket parts affect warranty?
Here are is an example of a manufacturers warranty that does not cover aftermarket parts. This is an excerpt from the 2019 Toyota Tundra warranty.
Here is an excerpt from a 2019 RAM 1500 warranty.
Another example would be headlights. An exterior part of the vehicle, which under this new bill would means non-OEM replacements can be fitted. Cheap replacement headlamps could not only burn out faster but could cause further electrical damage (subsequent damage caused by a non-OEM part could result in a warranty claim being denied).
How do you feel about aftermarket parts being fitted to your vehicle in a collision repair?
Would it make a difference if it depended on the age of your vehicle?
If the insurance companies have cheaper parts fitted, does this mean premiums will drop?
Let us know in the comments below or send a contact to your Wyoming legislators.
2019 Top 10 Vehicles With the Best Resale Value, Trucks and SUV’s.
Every year, KBB (Kelley Blue Book) ranks and awards vehicles based on their resale value. Resale value is projected over a 5-year term and is based on market data by automotive analysts from millions of transactions.
Resale value is an important factor to consider when purchasing a vehicle. Heavily depreciating vehicles can make it difficult to trade out of if the vehicle is financed. This can result in negative equity. Purchasing a vehicle with a good resale value should help avoid and/or counteract this.
Top 10 Trucks and SUV’s with the best resale value for 2019
2019 is the first year the top 10 resale value awards are ALL trucks or SUV’s. There are no cars in the top 10. Last year (2018), the 2018 Subaru WRX held 10th place as the only car on the list.
No.1 Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma consistently ranks as a vehicle with the best resale value. This mid-size truck also made the top of the best resale value list for 2018 and keeps its spot for 2019.
Subtle changes are made for the 2019 year model Tacoma. Toyota has improved the ride quality and reduced cabin noise for this off-road capable pickup.
No.2 Jeep Wrangler
Previously, the Jeep Wrangler was no.4 on the list and has now jumped up to a very respectable 2nd place. Outplacing 2 other Toyota’s along the way.
Jeep Wrangler’s are a completely new design for 2019. The new model Wrangler is called a JL and it comes with a whole lot of technology. Off-road enthusiasts can enjoy listening to Apple CarPlay or Android whilst navigating tough terrain. Wrangler’s are sought after vehicles in the Rocky Mountain West and this is probably why they keep their value so well.
No. 3 Toyota Tundra
Toyota always dominates the best resale value lists. This could be due to supply and demand as well as little to no discounts given on the trucks. In 3rd place for 2019 is the full-size Toyota Tundra.
2019 Model year Tundra’s come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P) as standard. A new SX package is available and V8’s available in both Double Cab and CrewMax configurations. This half ton has a towing capacity of up to 10,200 lbs.
No. 4 GMC Sierra
Moving up one place this year on the list of vehicles with the best resale value is the 2019 GMC Sierra. An all-new design from General motors includes the Multi-Pro Tailgate with 6 different functions.
Other new features on the GMC Sierra include a color heads up display, carbon-fiber cargo box, a new 3.0L turbo-diesel option and it’s longer. Infotainment includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
No. 5 Toyota 4Runner
Slipping a couple of places but still solidly in the top 10, in 5th comes the Toyota 4Runner. A capable off-road SUV with fun features such as crawl control.
New for the 2019 4Runner includes some updates including Fox suspension for the TRD Pro model, JBL audio and a TRD roof rack. A Nightshade special edition is added giving the body-on-frame SUV added style.
No. 6 Chevrolet Silverado
Staying in 6th place is the Chevy Silverado. An all new design for 2019 and sister truck to the Sierra.
Lighter and longer, the 2019 Chevy Silverado gets a new 2.7-liter gasoline turbocharged engine option. Also new is the Duramax 3.0-liter diesel engine option. Available in eight trim levels, new for 2019 is the RST (street performance) and the LT Trail Boss (off-road).
No.7 Honda Ridgeline
Available in crew cab shortbox, the Honda Ridgeline is constructed on a unibody frame (Sport Utility Truck). Minor updates are made for 2019. This mid-sized truck is available in 2WD and AWD. Honda Ridgeline’s feature a unique in-bed trunk.
No. 8 Chevrolet Colorado
Another Mid-sized truck on the list of vehicles with the best resale value. The 2019 Chevy Colorado hold it’s spot at 8th place.
New for 2019 on the Colorado is an upgraded infotainment system and 3 new colors. LT, Z71 and ZR2 trim levels get six way power driver seat. Z71 and ZR2’s get a heated steering wheel as standard. Max trailering with the Duramax diesel option is 7,700 lbs.
No. 9 Ford F-150
Staying in the top 10 vehicles with the best resale value lost, coming in 9th is the Ford F-150.
A new 3.0-liter Powerstroke diesel engine is available on the 2019 model year F-150’s. Ultra-luxurious features such as multi-contour massage seats are available on higher-end trims. Upgrades to infotainment systems now include compatibility with WAZE and Amazon Alexa.
No. 10 Porsche Macan
Knocking the Subaru WRX out of the top 10 for 2019 is the Porsche Macan. A compact luxury SUV that seats 5 and is AWD.
Which light duty pickup trucks have the best resale value for 2018?
Which heavy duty pickups have the best resale value for 2018?
New 2019 RAM Heavy Duty Trucks
What’s new for the 2019 RAM Heavy Duty Trucks?
Jan 14th at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), RAM reveals the new 2019 Heavy Duty Trucks.
Bold statements on the stage screen display, “OUT POWER, OUT TOW and OUT HAUL” every other truck on the market.
2019 RAM Heavy Duty Trucks, Photo: RAM.
Powertrains
RAM’s all-new 6.7L Cummins High Output Turbo Diesel engine is capable of 400 hp and 1000 lb-ft of torque. Made possible improvements such as; new exhaust valves and springs, new rocker arms, lighter and stronger pistons, low friction rings, and forged connecting rods. Also completely new is the exhaust manifold. This HO engine is paired with the Aisin AS69RC electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission.
Standard output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engines are up to 870 lb-ft torque and 370 hp. This engine is paired with an upgraded 68RFE six-speed automatic transmission.
Payload is up to 7,680 lbs. Up 330 lbs from 2018.
“Every powertrain is optimized to work with a new chassis to deliver the industry’s highest towing and payload ratings”, says Reid Bigland, Head of RAM Brand.
2019 RAM 3500 Limited DRW, Photo: RAM.
Variable cam timing and cylinder deactivation improves fuel efficiency on the 6.4L Hemi gas engine. An all-new 8-speed automatic transmission (a first in HD trucks) adds shift refinement. This will come in the form of the e-shifter rotary dial.
Suspension
Suspension setups include frequency response dampening (FRD), re-engineered bushings and progressive springs. Class-exclusive rear air suspension is still an option. It now has a driver-activated Bed Lowering Mode. Other modes include; Normal/Payload Mode and Trailer Tow Mode.
Brakes
With more power, has to come more braking. Calipers, booster and master cylinders are upgraded.
No more manuals
2019 RAM Heavy Duty trucks will not have a manual transmission option.
Towing
2019 RAM 3500 Limited, Photo: RAM.
An all-new high strength multi-gauge steel frame reduces weight, which increases capability, RAM announces a new best towing number of 35,100 lbs. This is on a 3500 4×2 regular cab long box dually with a 4.10 rear axle ratio.
Here are some other towing capacity numbers for 2019 RAM 3500 4×4 trucks with the new engine;
MEGA CAB | SHORT BOX | 6.7L I6 CUMMINS HO TURBO DIESEL | NEW 6 SPD AUTO AISIN HD TRANSMISSION | DRW | 4.10 REAR AXLE RATIO | MAX TOWING = 33020 lbs.
CREW CAB | LONG BOX | 6.7L I6 CUMMINS HO TURBO DIESEL | NEW 6 SPD AUTO AISIN HD TRANSMISSION | DRW | 4.10 REAR AXLE RATIO | MAX TOWING = 34130 lbs.
CREW CAB | LONG BOX | 6.7L I6 CUMMINS HO TURBO DIESEL | NEW 6 SPD AUTO AISIN HD TRANSMISSION | SRW | 3.73 REAR AXLE RATIO | MAX TOWING = 25150 lbs.
Dynamic grid lines on back up camera for 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches. 360 Camera has trailer reverse guidance view that doesn’t require any setup or stickers. Mirror-mounted rear spotlights aid trailering in the dark.
Selectable tire pressure monitoring display including tire pressure monitoring for up to 12 wheels. Tire Fill Assist is added and 4 trailer profiles can be stored.
Auxiliary camera setup provides the ability to add cameras to the back of a trailer, or inside the trailer.
Interior Design and Infotainment
Bigland says, “This is the most technologically advanced and luxurious HD truck ever.” With a completely redesigned interior, taking cues from the award-winning 2019 RAM1500 interior. Premium materials such as hand-wrapped leather surfaces and real wood are available on ‘Limited’ and ‘Longhorn’ trims.
Longhorn trims features barn wood on the passenger side dash with the Longhorn logo stamped in. The center console boasts 40 liters of storage and transfers into 12 different storage configurations. MegaCabs feature reclining seats which can also fold completely flat.
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- 2019 RAM Laramie Longhorn seats, Photo: RAM
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- 2019 RAM Laramie Longhorn stamp, Photo: RAM
5″ touchscreen standard on Tradesman and Big Horn trims. Big Horns have the option of the 8.4″ screen. Power Wagon, Laramie, and Longhorn trims get the 8.4″ as standard. They have the option of upgrading to the gigantic 12″ touchscreen with UConnect 4C. The 12″ touchscreen is standard on the Limited trim. Split screen configurations on the 12″ allows multiple views such as climate controls and Apple CarPlay simultaneously.
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- Big Horn Interior
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- Power Wagon cloth Interior. Leather an option.
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- 12″ touchscreen standard in the Limited trim
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- Limited interior
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- Longhorn interior
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- Limited interior. Photos: RAM
Optional dedicated/assignable switches, up to 5 USB ports and a wireless charging pad add to the tech. Also available, is up to three 115V household plugs able to handle 400 Watts to charge or power tools. One in the front, one in the rear and now one in the RamBox (if equipped).
Introducing active noise cancellation and laminating the windows reduces noise by up to 10 dB. Talking of decibels, the premium sound system on the new 2019 RAM Heavy Duty trucks is a 17 speaker Harman Kardon.
Exterior Design
There are 6 different grille designs, based on the trim level of the trucks. Exterior design adds larger bumper cuts and a 30% larger grille for maximum airflow. Three variations of headlights are available including an Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). AFS lights move in the directions of travel up to a max of 15°.
A new package called Laramie Black edition will be an available package on the ‘Laramie’ and ‘Big Horn’ trim levels. A monochromatic sport package is also available on those trims.
2019 RAM Laramie Longhorn. Photo: RAM.
Safety
New 2019 RAM Heavy Duty trucks boast over 100 safety features. One of the big ones is ACC. The only heavy truck to offer Adaptive Cruise Control with full stop and full speed forward collision plus with Automatic Emergency Braking. “Which all work whilst towing a 35000lb trailer”, says RAM.
Smart backup sensors now cover dually fenders.
All New Power Wagon
During the press conference, the all-new Power Wagon emerges downhill through a digital screen of smoke and hot lava.
The heavy-duty off-road truck keeps the ‘Power Wagon’ retro graphics on the bed and tailgate. With Front and rear lockers as well disconnecting sways bars the truck has a factory 2″ lift. Extensive underbody armor and off-road biased coil springs and Bilstein shocks are what makes the Power Wagon. For 2019, the Power Wagon will feature a new Warn winch. Still the 12,000lb winch, but this time, with a synthetic cable to reduce weight. It also gets a 360-degree camera with forward facing off-road view to aid tire placement.
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- 2019 Power Wagon Photo: RAM
2019 RAM Heavy Duty Trucks will be available at dealerships in the second quarter of 2019.
First New 2019 RAM Heavy Duty Truck Arrives Fremont Casper, WY
Top 10 Features on the 2018 Ford Edge
Top 10 Features on the 2018 Ford Edge
Here is a list of the top 10 features available on the 2018 model year Ford Edge.
2018 Edge SEL, Photo: Ford
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