Dodge became an automotive brand during the early 1900s. Founded by brothers John and Horace Dodge, who’s reputation in the automotive industry landed them a decade long opportunity making car parts for Ford. Around 1914, the brothers decided to part ways with the Ford company and start their own signature line of quality, reliable vehicles we now know as Dodge. But over time there has been a bit of confusion when it comes to the name “RAM” and how it ties into the Dodge brand. For starters, RAM was originally a truck model in the Dodge lineup introduced in 1981. Today RAM has evolved into it’s own line that offers utility vans and trucks for consumers. Keep reading to learn more about who owns RAM and a brief history of the brand.

WHEN DID DODGE AND RAM SPLIT?

Dodge was acquired by Chrysler in 1981 and produced the popular Dodge RAM until 2009 when the company decided to restructure the brand and split Dodge and RAM into two separate lanes. The goal was to allow Dodge to focus on sedans and muscle cars such as the Challenger SRT, while RAM honed in on creating rugged pickup trucks that have become a household name.

WHO OWNS RAM?

Now that the confusion is out of the way, you may be wondering so, who owns RAM? Chrysler owns RAM as well as Dodge. If you own a Dodge pickup truck made before 2009, you’ll notice the name is Dodge RAM, but if your truck was made after 2009, the name would simply be a RAM truck. Same company; the only difference is that Dodge cars, SUVs, and minivans are under Dodge branding, and their pickups are labeled as the RAM brand.

THE CURRENT RAM LINEUP

It goes without saying, the RAM lineup is worthy of it’s own space under the Chrysler umbrella. Here’s the current RAM lineup to help you choose the one to fit your needs best:

• RAM 1500 light-duty pickup
• RAM 2500 or 3500 heavy-duty pickups
• RAM Chassis Cab
• RAM ProMaster City light-duty van
• RAM ProMaster heavy-duty van

EXPLORE DODGE RAM VEHICLES AT OPELIKA FORD CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM

Now that you know the backstory of Dodge, including who owns RAM, take some time to browse the inventory at Opelika Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Explore our Dodge and RAM lineup to see what’s available near Phenix City. Once you find the vehicle you love, contact us to schedule a test drive. As always, our finance department is here to help you choose a finance or lease deal that works with your budget. Get an estimate of your monthly payments online with our payment calculator, then apply for financing online today!