Ram Trucks recently announced the end of production for the Ram 1500 Classic, a popular pickup truck model that has been in production for 15 years. The decision to discontinue production comes as a result of declining demand for the model, with the company shifting its focus towards newer and more advanced offerings. Despite the end of production, Ram is still offering two 2024 1500 Classic grades, the Tradesman and Warlock, for customers interested in purchasing the model before it is phased out completely.
Impending Layoffs at Warren Truck Plant
News of impending layoffs at the Warren Truck Plant, where the Jeep Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram 1500 Classic are built, first surfaced in August. AutoForecast Solutions reported that production of the Ram 1500 Classic was scheduled to end in September, leaving only the large Jeep SUVs to be manufactured at the facility. The layoffs are expected to affect a significant number of workers at the plant, as well as employees of suppliers and contractors associated with the production of the Ram 1500 Classic.
Confirmation of End of Production
Following the initial report of impending layoffs, Automotive News confirmed that a seating supplier for the Ram 1500 Classic would permanently shed 63 workers as a result of the end of production of the pickup truck. Ram CEO Christine Feuell officially confirmed the end of the Ram 1500 Classic, stating that the model had been a popular choice for commercial truck customers and that it had served as an entry point pickup for the Ram brand. Despite the discontinuation of the model, Ram assured customers that the HEMI-powered Ram 1500 Classic would continue to sell into 2025.
Remaining 2024 1500 Classic Grades
At the time of the announcement, Ram was still offering two 2024 1500 Classic grades, the base Tradesman and off-road Warlock. The Tradesman model starts at $40,700 and comes with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, with the option to upgrade to a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine for an additional cost. The Warlock model starts at $45,430 and offers similar engine options. Both models have been popular choices among customers looking for a reliable and versatile pickup truck.
Inventory and Demand
Despite the end of production, Ram’s E-Shop shows that there are still a significant number of 2024 1500 Classic units in dealer inventory nationwide, in addition to a smaller number of 2023 models. This indicates that there is still demand for the model, and Ram expects to continue producing the 1500 Classic for at least six more months to meet this demand. Customers interested in purchasing the 1500 Classic are encouraged to do so before production officially comes to an end.
Future of Ram Trucks
As Ram Trucks focuses on newer models and technologies, the discontinuation of the Ram 1500 Classic marks a new chapter for the brand. While the model has been a reliable and popular choice for many customers over the years, Ram is committed to offering innovative and high-performance vehicles that meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers. The decision to end production of the 1500 Classic is part of a broader strategy to streamline the company’s product lineup and pave the way for future growth and success.