Dodge's Mopar Underground tuning arm has previewed its plans for next month's
SEMA show. Four concepts are based on the Ram pickup.
To emphasise the Dodge Ram's off-road potential the TRXtreme features 4.5-inches of extra ground clearance, 20-inch wheels with BFG off-road tyres and a load bed full of off-road accessories. Cooling louvers help regulate the engine temperature while a dual exhaust provides an "impressive" sound track.
A more performance orientated pick-up is the Dodge Ram R/T. Inspired by the Challenger it features a 375bhp HEMI V8 coupled to a high-performance automatic transmission. A concept air suspension kit allows the R/T to sit closer to the tarmac and the ground-hugging appearance is enhanced by a body kit featuring sill extensions and side skirts. Twenty two-inch alloy wheels - wrapped in 285/45 front and 305/40 rear tyres - and a rigid load cover with rear spoiler complete the sporting look. To spice up the interior the stitching on the leather seats, the steering wheel and the instruments are colour coded to the blue bodywork.
The Ram Sportsman features a "blowing leaves" paint scheme inspired by camouflage designs. Flared wheelarches and running boards help protect the body while the RamBox storage system is full of outdoor gear. A navigation system, SIRIUS satellite TV and DVD player provide in-car entertainment and direction finding. while the interior also features perforated leather seats embroidered with the Sportsman logo.
A final Ram concept is the Mopar Street Package. A slight body drop/levelling kit accentuates the sill extensions and chin spoiler while an aluminium "dual-snorkel" bonnet feeds air to the 384bhp V8. The interior is finished with suede and leather seats while the load bay features a Mopar 'bed rug' and, like the Ram R/T and Sportsman, under-rail LED lighting for the load area.
The SEMA show takes place in Las Vegas from 4th to 7th November. It is a trade-only show that brings together the latest trends in aftermarket car modifying.
John Lambert - 17 Oct 2008
