Direct Connection’s Supercharged Surprise Ram 1500 Express

At this year’s Roadkill Nights, the spotlight was firmly on Dodge. Crowds gathered to witness the debut of the 2026 Dodge Durango SRT HELLCAT Jailbreak and the highly anticipated Dodge Charger SIXPACK models. Those vehicles dominated the headlines—but in the background, Ram quietly introduced a truck that could prove equally significant for performance enthusiasts: a 2026 Ram 1500 Express equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 and eTorque mild-hybrid system, enhanced with conceptual Direct Connection performance parts.

While understated in its presentation, this truck was far more than a simple showpiece. It provided an early glimpse of Ram’s next chapter in performance, signaling the expansion of the Direct Connection program beyond Dodge muscle cars and into the Ram pickup portfolio.

Direct Connection Meets Ram – 

The centerpiece of this 1500 Express concept was the addition of a Whipple Gen 6 3.0-liter Stage Supercharger Kit, developed under the Direct Connection brand. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the 5.7-liter HEMI and its eTorque system, this package elevates output to more than 600 horsepower—a 50% increase compared to the naturally aspirated version.

At just 5 psi of boost on 93-octane fuel, the system generates gains of up to 180 rear-wheel horsepower. Importantly, Ram intends for the package to be 50-state CARB legal, ensuring compliance with emissions standards while retaining full street usability. That combination of power, legality, and OEM backing positions the upgrade as a benchmark for factory-engineered performance in the pickup market.

Comprehensive Engineering – 

The Direct Connection upgrade is more than a single component. In collaboration with Whipple Superchargers, Ram developed a complete system engineered to deliver reliability, drivability, and integration with existing vehicle technology. The package includes:

• Direct Connection Whipple Gen 6 3.0L Stage Supercharger

• Adjustable 8-rib belt system

• High-flow HELLCAT fuel injectors

• 3-bar MAP sensor

• Full eTorque system integration

By retaining the eTorque mild-hybrid system, the package ensures that modern efficiency and drivability remain intact, even as performance rises substantially. This reflects a deliberate approach: rather than compromising utility for speed, Ram engineered a solution that delivers both.

The package also features a Direct Connection cold-air intake and exhaust system, along with custom badging and bedside graphics—elements that, we are told, could eventually make their way into the official Direct Connection catalog.

Leadership and Collaboration –

The project underscores the leadership of Tim Kuniskis, who has consistently translated enthusiastic demand into production reality within Stellantis’ performance divisions. It also highlights the expertise of Dave Salvaggio and Salvaggio Design (@salvaggio_design). Salvaggio’s team has been responsible for award-winning Mopar builds, including Kevin Hart’s ’69 Roadrunner, the acclaimed “Barbaric” ’71 Cuda, and numerous vehicles featured in the Fast & Furious film franchise.

Salvaggio’s prior collaboration with Direct Connection on projects such as the 2018 Challenger SRT Demon and 2023 Demon 170 further reinforces the program’s credibility. As a Salvaggio Design representative noted, “Mopars are part of American history from all backgrounds. Having worked with Direct Connection on the Demon projects, it only made sense to bring that same passion to the truck world.”

Path to Market –

Although an official launch date has yet to be confirmed, Ram has indicated that the Direct Connection supercharger kit will be available soon at participating dealerships. This means customers will be able to order a 2026 Ram 1500 with the 5.7-liter HEMI and subsequently add a factory-engineered supercharger upgrade, complete with warranty support and full emissions compliance.

Such a move positions Ram uniquely in the marketplace. Rather than forcing customers to rely on aftermarket modifications that may compromise reliability or legality, the brand is offering an OEM solution that combines performance with peace of mind.

Direct Connection Supercharged 2026 Ram 1500 Express by Salvaggio Design: