New Ram Street Truck Has 650 HP
In a country obsessed with pickup trucks and power, one automotive subgenre has remained surprisingly under the radar in recent decades: street trucks. These vehicles combine the towing capabilities of a pickup with performance optimized for pavement rather than off-road use. The new 650-horsepower Ram 1500 Lowered, from the Fox Factory lineup and distributed through Mopar Direct Connection, appears to be a particularly compelling response to this demand.
The Legacy of Street Pickups
There was a time when Ford dominated the factory street truck segment with the F-150 SVT Lightning, an impressive single-cab smoke-spewing machine that spanned two generations in the 80s and 90s. Today, the blue oval manufacturer offers the F-150 Lobo, marketed as a road pickup but without reaching the radicalism of historical models. Powered by a naturally aspirated V8 without forced induction, its attitude and aerodynamic treatment are far less aggressive than the joint creation by Fox and Mopar on this Ram.
The Technical Expertise Behind This Street Truck
Mopar Direct Connection represents the official accessories and performance branch for Dodge and Ram vehicles. Fox, a renowned suspension specialist, has been supplying shock absorbers for production and racing vehicles for decades. Recently, the company expanded its operations by developing special versions of factory-branded pickups through its Fox Factory Vehicles division. These exclusive models benefit from full homologation and manufacturer warranty while incorporating sophisticated technical enhancements.
A Decidedly Performance-Oriented Approach
Unlike traditional pickups designed for off-road adventure, the Ram 1500 Lowered adopts a diametrically opposed philosophy. Its chassis features a lowered height, optimizing stability and road handling. Aerodynamic modifications aim to improve downforce and channel airflow for enhanced performance. With its 650 horsepower, this creation positions itself as a muscular alternative to sports sedans while simultaneously offering the practical utility of a pickup.
Evolution of the Performance Pickup Market
The street truck segment is experiencing a revival after years of domination by off-road models. Enthusiasts now seek versatile vehicles combining dynamic performance and functionality. The Ram 1500 Lowered embodies this emerging trend, offering a sporty driving experience without compromising practical capabilities. This technical approach contrasts with the more conventional positioning of the Ford F-150 Lobo, which maintains a more traditional orientation despite its road-focused marketing.
Technology Serving Performance
The development of this high-performance pickup incorporates technical solutions proven in competition. The suspension benefits from Fox’s expertise in high-performance shock absorbers, ensuring an ideal balance between road holding and comfort. The electronic management of the engine and transmission has been reworked to fully exploit the 650 horsepower, while the braking system has been reinforced to control this considerable power.