Companies have a desire and responsibility to stay in business. The automobile industry is heavily regulated and must conform to governmental mandated regulation regardless of personal likes or dislikes. Ford invested "millions" into new engines (as quoted in a previous message) and fortunately they have the financial depth to do so. Some might question if they really needed to do that, especially in the light duty segment. Personally, I think that decision was based on corporate ego, as most auto companies are always on the quest to have better numbers than their competition. That's why we have half-tons in the light duty segment that have payload and towing ratings that were once the domain of 2500-3500 trucks not long ago.
Many are bemoaning Ram's direction with the new Hurricane motor as if this is going to be the only power plant for heavy duties. It's possible, but the evidence so far seems to indicate that engine's destination is for cars and 1500s. I suspect either the 5.7 or 6.4 will soldier on for a little while longer. Being a smaller company with relatively limited resources compared to Ford and GM, maybe the decision to invest in all electric half-tons is a priority that overshadows the immediate need for a larger, newer platform V8 which might have a short future. After all, the tea leaves indicate that zero emissions requirements, which are not that far off, will strongly affect the light-duty truck market, especially heavy duties.
In my own state the current administration is looking to ban heavy duty sales for private use (non-commercial), anyways. Through taxation and other punitive legal methods, the quest for zero emissions will necessitate serious cultural changes that will impact the U.S. automobile market. and force people to convert their current automotive desires.
Regards,
Dusty
2019 Ram 1500 Billet Silver Laramie Quad Cab 2WD, 5.7 Hemi, 8HP75, 3.21 axle, 33-gallon fuel tank, factory dual exhaust, 18” wheels. Build Daye: 3 June 2018. Now at 86355 miles.
