Off-Road Ready – The 2021 Ram 2500/3500 AEV Prospector:

We have talked about American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) and their Ram 2500-based Prospector XL before. The Prospector XL is the Michigan-based aftermarket builder’s ultimate adventure, which maximizes ground clearance, and takes the Ram Heavy Duty to the next level for off-roaders. But for those who think the Prospector XL is a bit too extreme for the daily routine drive, AEV offers a more toned-down Prospector model.

One of the biggest complaints surrounding the Ram 2500 Power Wagon is the fact that it doesn’t come with a Cummins turbodiesel under the hood. AEV has that issue well taken care of.

The AEV Prospector is an everyday workhorse that can take you far beyond where the pavement ends. Based on the 4.5 generation Ram 2500 or 3500 Heavy Duty, the uniquely-equipped pickup truck bridges the gap between a daily work truck and recreational off-roader with its impressive capability off-road and refined drivability on the road.

The AEV Prospector package features a number of upgrades to maximize the truck’s versatility, this includes the following expedition grade components…

• AEV Stamped Steel Front Bumper
• AEV Front Bumper Low Tube
• AEV Intercooler Skid Plate (If Applicable)
• AEV Non-Winch Cover Plate
• AEV 3-Inch DualSport RT Suspension
• AEV-Tuned Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers
• 37-Inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain or Mud-Terrain Tires
• AEV Wheels
• AEV Rear Bumper
• Mopar Fender Flares
• AEV Branding Package
• AEV IP Cluster
• AEV Logo Headrests
• AEV Vehicle Build Plaque

The Prospector’s AEV Front Bumper is made from 4mm thick, stamped steel and provides superb front-end protection, and accommodates the optional VR EVO 10-S winch. There are also two massive ductile iron tow loops which were designed to exceed all original equipment (OE) specifications and double as wear plates when sliding over steep obstacles, off-road.

Prospector models are equipped with AEV’s tuned DualSport RT Suspension System, which delivers a great combination of ride quality and handling over a variety of terrain, without sacrificing towing ability or payload. Throughout extensive research and development tests, both suspension and steering geometry was optimized, while maximizing wheel travel and gaining the additional lift needed to accommodate the Prospector’s 37-inch tall BFGoodrich tires.

There are two solutions for mounting the Prospector’s full-size spare wheel and tire. Customers can choose from a horizontal bed mount system which is ideal for those wishing to use a tonneau cover. The other choice is a vertical tire mount that maximizes the available cargo space in the bed of the truck. The vertical tire mount is compatible with most aftermarket tops.

At the rear of the truck, AEV’s Heavy-Duty Steel Rear Bumper is built to maximize the departure angle and offer superior corner production for the underside of the bed. Heavy-Duty recovery points allow for fast, secure attachment of 1-inch D-ring shackles which are great for pulling your friends out of those tricky spots.

Each Prospector is equipped at the AEV headquarters in Wixon, Michigan and comes with a serial numbered VIN plate, exclusive AEV exterior badges, windshield banner, embroidered headrest, and a custom gauge cluster overlay.

The package has a starting Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $13,600 USD. That is about $4,250 cheaper than the Prospector XL’s starting price. 

For those who are looking for even more capability, the Prospector package can be optioned with the following accessories…

• AEV Bed Rack
• AEV Snorkel
• AEV Differential Covers
• AEV Front Brush Guard
• AEV 7000 Series LED Off-Road Lights
• Vision X 30-Inch XPL LED Light Bar
• Baja Designs Rear Bumper LED Lights
• AEV Leather / CORDURA® Interior
• AEV Premium Leather Interior Upgrade
• AEV F-1 Leather Interior Upgrade
• AEV Rear Splash Guards
• AEV Full-size Spare Tire – Flat Bed Mount
• AEV Full-size Spare Tire – Vertical Mount
• AEV Painted Appearance Package
• AEV Rear Bumper Lighting
• AMP Power Side Steps
• VR EVO 10-S winch
• AEV Weekender Recovery Gear Kit
• AEV Expedition Recovery Gear Kit

For those who are interested in the Prospector, you can use AEV’s Build & Price configurator to create your own. You can also check out their pre-built inventory or search for a certified AEV dealer.

Source: AEV