Powering the Ram 1500 Special Purpose is the standard-issue 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that makes the same 390 horsepower and 407 pound-feet of torque as in the civilian version and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. A 3.92 ratio axle is the only one offered and four-wheel drive is standard as well. The four-door crew cab is the only cab offered, though the RamBox storage system is available for departments that find it useful.
Along with the stronger alternator, Chrysler fitted this ram with what it calls the Power Distribution Center, which is gets power directly by the battery through two 100-amp fuses. The PDC is designed specifically to power camera, computer, modem, and printer systems. Additionally, the Ram Special Purpose’s wiring harness is pre-designed to handle the usual variety of police accessories such as light bars, sirens, and radar.
Inside the cabin is a modified instrument cluster that includes a certified speedometer, an engine hour and idle hour meter, plus a 110-volt inverter. The center column is removed to add space, while the shifter moves to the steering column. As is typical in police vehicles, the rear bench seat is covered in vinyl while the front seats receive stain-resistant cloth upholstery.
Though few police departments need the 10,000-pound towing capability or 1455-pound payload capacity the Ram offers, rural outfits will appreciate the trucks durability and off-road capability and some will surely plan on allocating their purchasing budgets when the Special Service becomes available later this month.
