Is the RAM 1500 Being Discontinued? Well, Sort of.

The End of a Classic Era

The RAM 1500 Classic has long served as a reliable, no-frills option for those in need of a durable work truck. Originally launched in 2009 as the standard RAM 1500, it was rebranded as the “Classic” in 2019 when a new generation of the RAM 1500 was introduced. The move allowed RAM to cater to both ends of the market spectrum, offering a budget-friendly alternative alongside their more modern and feature-rich models.

However, the winds of change have finally caught up with the Classic. Production of this dependable pickup will cease in September 2024 at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan. The plant itself will undergo significant change, and will focus on the production of the Jeep Wagoner.

Why Is RAM Discontinuing the Classic?

The decision to discontinue the RAM 1500 Classic comes as the company pivots towards more advanced and technologically equipped models. The introduction of the 2025 RAM 1500 Tradesman signals a new direction for the brand, focusing on enhanced electrical architecture, improved safety systems, and better fuel efficiency with the new Hurricane Straight-Six Turbo engine.

RAM’s strategic move makes sense when considering the market dynamics. The RAM 1500 Classic, while a workhorse, has become somewhat outdated. The 2024 Classic’s starting price of $38,705 is only marginally cheaper than the newer RAM 1500 models, making it less attractive to cost-conscious buyers.

What Does This Mean for HEMI V-8 Fans?

One of the more significant implications of the Classic’s discontinuation is the end of an era for the HEMI V-8 engine in RAM’s half-ton pickup segment. The Classic was the last remaining RAM 1500 model to offer this fan favorite engine option. While the HEMI V-8 will continue to live on in other models, such as the RAM Heavy-Duty trucks and the Dodge Durango, its absence in the half-ton market marks a notable shift.

What’s Next for RAM?

Looking forward, RAM is betting on its updated lineup to fill the gap left by the Classic. The new RAM 1500 Tradesman and other upcoming models will incorporate more advanced technologies, catering to both commercial fleets and individual buyers who demand more from their trucks. This includes the potential for electrification, as seen in the upcoming RAM REV and Ramcharger variants, which aim to meet future compliance and sustainability goals.