Australia’s Last HEMI-Powered Ram 1500 Rolls Off the Line
End Of An Era As Ram Prepares For Twin-Turbo Future...
Earlier this month, Ram Trucks Australia completed the conversion of its final HEMI® V8-powered Ram 1500 to right-hand-drive (RHD), marking the end of an era. The vehicle, a Limited Night Edition model in stunning Granite Crystal paint, rolled off the assembly line at the Walkinshaw Automotive Group’s Clayton facility on December 6th, 2024.
Since its introduction in May 2021, the fifth-generation Ram 1500 (DT) with its 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 and eTorque mild-hybrid system has made a lasting impression on Australian buyers. However, the HEMI V8 is now giving way to Ram’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 engine, part of the updated 2025 lineup.
“We haven’t put a ‘final V8’ badge on this particular example because, to us, they’re all special. But once they’re gone, they’re gone,” said Ram Trucks Australia General Manager Jeff Barber, emphasizing the significance of the transition.
Ram’s Conversion Journey –
Ram Trucks Australia has been remanufacturing U.S.-built trucks for RHD since June 2018. The operation, based at the former Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) site, involves over 400 locally engineered parts and 14 hours of labor per vehicle. The process ensures the trucks meet Australian standards and buyer expectations.
The company has converted 28,495 HEMI-powered Ram 1500 DT models at the Clayton facility. This figure excludes units equipped with the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, highlighting the demand for Ram’s V8 option.
A Challenging Year –
The Ram 1500 experienced a sales high in 2023, with 5,922 deliveries, accounting for over half of all U.S.-style pickups sold in Australia. However, sales have dropped significantly in 2024. Between January and November, only 2,962 units were sold—a 47.5% decrease compared to the previous year.
Ram faces growing competition in Australia. Ford launched its F-150 late in 2023, Toyota introduced the Tundra, and Chevrolet’s Silverado continues to gain traction. While Ram remains the best-selling U.S. pickup in Australia, the competition is closing the gap. Chevrolet sold 2,161 Silverados this year, while Ford’s F-150 has reached 2,084 units despite initial rollout delays.
Looking Forward –
Despite the sales dip, Ram Trucks Australia is optimistic about the future. The upcoming twin-turbocharged HURRICANE engine is expected to bring enhanced power and efficiency. The 2025 Ram 1500 models will begin RHD conversions in early 2025, continuing Ram’s commitment to the Australian and New Zealand markets.
In the meantime, the last batch of HEMI-powered Ram 1500s remains available for purchase with enticing offers, including free on-road costs and a comprehensive ownership package.
As the HEMI era closes, Ram Trucks Australia looks ahead to new opportunities, ready to face the challenges of an evolving market and maintain its position as the country’s favorite U.S.-style pickup.
