Making news headlines for all the right reasons, RAM Trucks Australia have just rolled out their 20,000th right-hand drive truck.
The momentous and impressive occasion was marked in style as a Hydro Blue 6.2-litre supercharged V8 HEMIⓇ TRX was built at the recently expanded Melbourne, Australia, Manufacturing Facility. If you were unaware, RAM Australia’s trucks arrive in Australia as a left-hand drive vehicles. They’re then manufactured to right hand drive at their facility in Melbourne. First, the chassis and body are separated before a re-engineered right-hand drive specific steering system is fitted. After that, a new dashboard (designed, developed and produced in Australia) is installed along with a right-hand drive specific heating and ventilation system. The body and chassis are then re-married to produce the final product.
There to celebrate the milestone was Carl Smiley, Chief Operating Officer, India & Asia Pacific at Stellantis. As well as Billy Hayes, Head of Sales, Marketing, and Regional Operations, India and Asia Pacific at Stellantis.
This was Mr Smiley’s first visit to the RAM Trucks Australia manufacturing facility. He clearly picked a great time to make his debut.
“RAM is one of our best-known and strongest brands in the USA, and I am really proud to see it here in Australia,” said Mr Smiley.
“The Ateco Group are great partners to have in this project – the quality of right-hand drive trucks is a testament to the teamwork between those on the ground here in Australia and those back in the US.”
The partnership is set to continue, with Mr Smiley stating, “we are committed to continued support for the Ateco Group and their RAM Trucks Australia business with further technical and engineering assistance.” And with discussions around future products, including the recent reveal of the RAM Revolution EV truck, Mr Smiley is confident that the long-term arrangement will continue to innovate and elevate this partnership.
The Ateco Group is the world’s only RAM-authorised manufacturer of right-hand drive RAM trucks. The relationship between RAM Trucks Australia and RAM Trucks in the USA has been going strong for almost a decade. This has resulted in a range of full-size pick-up trucks that lead the pack in durability, technology, efficiency, and, of course, a touch of luxury.
RAM Trucks Australia is now the biggest vehicle manufacturer in Australia! With over 1,000 shiny new parts on the DS, DT, and heavy-duty models, these trucks are not just good-looking; they’re good for business too! The local supply chain is reaping the benefits of this fast-growing vehicle segment.
