The twin-turbo in-line six-cylinder GME engine provides the performance needed to displace the Hemi V8, with a wider torque band, a smaller physical space, and with over a hundred pounds less weight; but some Ram enthusiasts have expressed concern that it would not be sufficient for the big pickups. In particular, they fear it may not be a worthy engine in the Ram 3500 and chassis cabs, which currently have a choice of Cummins diesel or a special 6.4 liter Hemi that’s designed for grunt and durability more than acceleration.
According to rumors in Auburn Hills, a second engine is planned for these trucks. It, too, would be an inline six-cylinder, but engineered specifically for truck engines. The new engine is rumored to be larger—3.7 liters—and to have a more traditional design, other than an odd 30° tilt. A source within Engineering told us that it was tilted over to make room for accessories on the side so that it could fit into smaller engine bays; and to provide space for a better air path, increasing its efficiency.
The new “inclined six” engine will be more attuned to traditional enthusiasts’ desires, eschewing direct injection and stop/start systems. Though that will result in lower gas mileage, Ram will also have a hydrogen fuel cell option which may find a hefty number of fleet sales to compensate for any losses.
A special fuel delivery system, installed by dealerships, will be available for much higher power. One source claimed that a diesel version of this system was developed and tested by a contractor, but the company decided not to go forward with it.
The new engine, coded “Reggie” (departing from the military plane naming scheme), has an aluminum-alloy block and head. The intake manifold, using “bunch of bananas” technology, has a designed-in supercharging effect. It will be made at Trenton Engine.
(Much more information has come in since this story was posted on April 1. See our update.)
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