Ram Announces Natural-Gas-Powered 2500 HD Pickup

Ram Truck has announced a factory-built Ram 2500 Heavy Duty pickup that will run on both compressed natural gas (CNG) and gasoline. (It's natural-gas day here at Car and Driver!) The CNG-burning Ram will only be available as a Crew Cab 4×4 in two trim levels: ST or SLT. Pricing starts at $47,500, but the truck will be limited to fleet customers. If that's you—or you have an addiction to vehicles you can't buy—read on for more details. The 2500 HD CNG will be powered by a specially modified 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with redesigned cylinder heads, valves, and valve seats. CNG-specific fuel rails and injectors will be added in addition to the standard set, as well as a new set of spark plugs to improve combustion and durability. A new powertrain control module makes sure that the engine operates seamlessly regardless of the fuel source. The truck features two fuel tanks: The CNG vessel holds the gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) of 18.2 gallons, while the gas tank will store eight gallons of backup fuel used only during startup and when the CNG tank is depleted. The CNG range is estimated at 255 miles but the gasoline tank bumps total roaming ability to 367 miles. The truck will compete with 2013 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD models that will also be offered with a natural-gas option. from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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