The Dodge brand began around 1900, but it wasn’t until 1914 that their signature trucks went into production. Dodge quickly became a popular, reliable vehicle, especially in the work truck segment of the automotive industry. But how did RAM Dodge come about? “RAM” was originally the name of one of Dodge’s light-duty pickup trucks. There was also the Ramcharger SUV and Dodge RAM van. But when did Dodge and Ram split? And who owns RAM today?
If you’re shopping around Camden for a RAM or Dodge, the shared history of these two brands, and their previously combined names, can be confusing. Take a moment to read our guide, where we cover who owns RAM, as well as the history behind when Dodge and RAM split. Once you’re done reading, explore our new vehicle specials and head to Carolina Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Lugoff to test-drive both types of models at our showroom!
Chrysler bought Dodge in 1981 and kept their most popular models, including the RAM pickup trucks. From 1981 to 2009, their pickup trucks were called “Dodge RAM”. Then, they decided to restructure the brand and split Dodge and RAM into two separate vehicle lineups.
In 2009, Dodge’s parent company, Chrysler, decided to make RAM a stand-alone name for their pickup trucks. That’s why, if you own a Dodge pickup truck made before 2009, it’s called a Dodge RAM. Post-2009 pickups are RAM trucks. They’re still the same company; the only difference is that Dodge cars, SUVs, and minivans are under Dodge branding, and their pickups are under RAM.
Dodge RAM split into separate entities so that Dodge could focus more on building new vehicles that could compete with the likes of the Jeep Wrangler and Chevy Corvette. The split allowed Dodge to create industry stand-outs like the Dodge Challenger and Charger muscle cars, Durango SUV, and more Camden fan-favorites.
Although RAM is not Dodge, the brand exhibits the same exquisite craftsmanship you came to expect from Dodge RAM. Here are just a few of the RAM models Columbia drivers will find on our showroom floor:
Now that you know who owns RAM, and a short history of the brand, browse our inventory at Carolina Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Explore our Dodge RAM lineup at Carolina Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Lugoff, near Lexington. Our finance department can help you settle on a finance or lease deal that works with your budget. Get an estimate of your monthly payments online with our payment calculator, then apply for financing online today!
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