Ram Long Hauler Delivers 1600 Miles Between Fill-ups

Huw Evans
by Huw Evans

It’s just a concept right now, but Ram‘s Heavy-Duty based Long Hauler, is already making waves. Based on a Class 5 Heavy Duty Chassis Cab, it features an 8-foot long dually pickup box and extra fuel provisions – a 60 gallon resevoir mounted between the cab and the bed, plus a further bed mounted fuel tank that holds 50 gallons.

That results in a total fuel capacity of 162 gallons, which, combined with the proven Cummins 6.7-liter straight-six diesel and six-speed automatic, should give this truck the ability to cover distances of around 1,600 miles between fill ups when pulling a large trailer (think tri-axle). That means, you could drive this thing from the East Coast to the West, only having to stop for fuel twice.

As it’s been conceived for long-distance hauling, this rig is not surprisingly loaded to the gunwhales with creature comforts; adjustable rear foot rests, tray tables, built-in refrigerator and Wi-Fi are just some of the features.

Given that the Long Hauler has a Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCW) of a staggering 37,500 lbs, it needs a suspension that is up to the task, as a result the front and rear 19.5 inch wheels and tires are connected to a Kelderman air-bag suspension with automatic self-leveling.

Whether Ram division will actually build the Long Hauler remains to be seen, though there is undoubtedly a gap in the market between 1-ton pickups and Class 6 over-the-road trucks like baby Freightliners and Peterbilts, especially for those that need a tow vehicle for rodeos or high-end race cars.

Currently, the Long Hauler is doing the rounds at various events across the US to gauge public opinion. It’s next appearance is scheduled for the Kentucky Derby on May 6-7. So, if the Long Hauler is something that floats your boat and you happen to be in Louisville that weekend, be sure to check it out.

Huw Evans
Huw Evans

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  • Bigdaddy Bigdaddy on May 13, 2011

    This would be great for what i do, hauling campers across country delivering them to the dealers! love to have one i have always said that if DODGE ever made a truck that was a mega cab with a long bed to boot i will have one!!!!!!!

  • Rj Rj on Dec 16, 2011

    With all the goodies mentioned plus the new Longhorn interior this would not only give the F-450 a run for its life but also Ford's King Ranger interior. Build this truck. RAM must build this truck or they will just be admitting defeat to Ford.

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