The End of an Era: Final V8-Powered Ram 1500 Rolls Off the Production Line

Australia has officially witnessed the completion of the final V8-powered Ram 1500, marking the end of an era for one of the country's most popular pick-up trucks. As the 28,495th and final Hemi V8 model rolls off the production line in Melbourne, Ram Trucks Australia is preparing for the arrival of a new, more eco-friendly version of the iconic vehicle, featuring a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. This marks a significant shift in the Australian market as we move into a new chapter of performance and efficiency.

A Milestone for Ram Trucks Australia

The final Ram 1500 with V8 power was completed on Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Clayton facility in Melbourne, the home of Walkinshaw Automotive Group. This re-manufacturing operation, formerly known for its work with Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), has been behind the conversion of Ram trucks from left-hand drive to right-hand drive for the Australian market. The completion of the 28,495th Hemi V8-powered truck marks the end of a production journey that started in June 2018.

Though the last V8 model has not yet been allocated to a dealership, Ram Trucks Australia confirms that there is still "limited stock" available due to strong demand during the V8 run-out phase. The V8’s popularity has been significant, as many buyers rushed to secure one of the final models before the shift to the new engine lineup.

The Future of Ram 1500: Turbocharged Six-Cylinder Power

With the end of the V8 era, Ram is set to bring an updated version of the Ram 1500 in mid-2025, equipped with a twin-turbo inline six-cylinder petrol engine. This engine is expected to offer a perfect balance between performance and fuel efficiency, aligning with global trends towards more sustainable vehicle options without compromising power.

The new 1500 will feature revised styling and upgraded technology, ensuring it stays at the forefront of the competitive Australian pick-up market. As Ram Trucks Australia General Manager Jeff Barber explains, the V8's legacy will be honored by the introduction of a "worthy successor" in the form of this new-generation six-cylinder petrol engine. While details about the powertrain and performance specs will be shared closer to the vehicle’s arrival, expectations are high for what the future holds.

Ram's Australian Success Story

Ram has firmly established itself as the top seller of US pick-ups in Australia, with a strong lead over its competitors, especially in the 1500-sized pick-up segment. In 2024, Ram has sold 2,962 Ram 1500 models, outpacing Chevrolet's 2,161 units. While Chevrolet leads in the heavy-duty segment (with 1,339 Silverado HDs sold compared to 570 Ram 2500 and 3500s), Ram continues to dominate in the more popular 1500 size, a category that has become synonymous with Australian buyers looking for a powerful yet practical vehicle.

Since the introduction of the Ram 1500 in Australia in 2018, and the earlier launch of the Ram 2500 and 3500 models in 2015, Ram has become a staple in the local pick-up market. Their ability to adapt to the Australian market by providing right-hand drive conversions has set them apart from competitors. Unlike smaller firms that offer independent left-to-right conversions, Ram’s official “re-manufacturing” process takes 14 hours, ensuring a level of quality and precision that resonates with Australian customers.

What’s Next for Ram 1500 in Australia?

As the final V8-powered Ram 1500 takes its place in history, attention now shifts to the upcoming twin-turbo six-cylinder version. With a combination of advanced performance, improved fuel efficiency, and a host of new tech features, the 2025 Ram 1500 is poised to make a significant impact when it arrives in showrooms.

The final V8-powered models, now rare, will likely remain highly sought-after, while the new model will continue to build on Ram's reputation as a leader in the pick-up truck market.

Stay tuned for more updates as Ram prepares to launch the next chapter in its Australian story. Whether you’re an avid Ram enthusiast or a new customer, the future of the Ram 1500 looks incredibly promising.