Big points for Big Horn

Jun 02, 2023

Big Horn is one of the big names not only in American history, but in US automotive history, sitting on the front of some of the RAM pick-ups.

And now it’s arrived in Australia, on the new entry-level 1500 DT RAM range.

It is based on the DT variant, giving it RAM’s 5.7-litre V8 HEMI engine, which produces 291kW and 556Nm through an eight-speed gearbox. It has what is described as a “mild hybrid system”, with cylinder deactivation, and a RAM spokesperson says combined fuel consumption is 12.2 litres/100km.

It scores big in the towing department, with the RAM 1500 Big Horn capable of pulling up to 4.5 tonnes (with braked towing).

Big Horn comes with a choice of either a 170cm-long ute tray or 79cm tub in the longer wheelbase. It comes with a bed liner, multiple tie-down points, bed step, and payload of 900kg. It has a trailer sway control function.

Inside, there are cloth seats, a 60/40 folding rear bench and full suite of airbags.

The RAM 1500 Big Horn is from $119,950 plus on-road costs for the standard wheelbase and from $120,950 for the longer (which I reckon will work all week then should easily fit two dirt bikes at the weekend).

And here’s my tip . . . the RAM 1500 DS in run-out mode is $98,950 driveaway for a limited time.

NUDGING THE MARKET

RAM Trucks Australia continues its strong run.

Jeff Barber, RAM Trucks Australia’s national manager, says: “We’ve sold nearly 25,000 RAMs since 2015.”

RAM Trucks Australia is part of the Ateco Group, and the world’s only authorised manufacturer of right-hand-drive RAM trucks.

It is now the biggest vehicle manufacturer in Australia and there are more than 1000 new parts available for the DS, DT and heavy-duty models — an answer to international supply chain issues.

PS My reference to the name “Big Horn” having its place in US history is not a reference to the Battle of the Little Bighorn River in Montana, between US federal troops and Northern Plains Indigenous people, in 1876. I refer to the success of the big horn sheep recovery program. Bighorn (Ovis canadensis) are native to North America, but were hunted to scarcity. Due to these programs, there are probably more bighorn sheep in the Badlands of western North Dakota today than there have been at any time in the last 150 years.

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