RAM CEO MIKE KOVAL GIVES FRESH COMMENTARY ON A SMALL TRUCK

The truck market is breaking barriers with the return of the small pickup with the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. Then we have the arrival of a new one with the Rivian R1T, Ford Lightning, and the soon-to-be Chevrolet Silverado EV. However, while Ram has seen success with its full-size pickup lineup, and we know that they will have their own EVs with the Ram Revolution line, it’s still unclear if Ram plans to dip its feet into the smaller truck market, despite recognizing the opportunity. It could end up being called Dakota. It could not be.

“Opportunity” For A Smaller Ram Pickup Truck

Carbuzz recently had an interview with Ram CEO Mike Koval, a straight shooter when it comes to answering questions. He noted that “the interest and demand for Ram products globally has never been higher,” thanks to the TRX. He noted that as Ram is part of a global company like Stellantis, there’s “synergy,” which gives Koval access to all of it. It’s simply a matter of waiting and finding the perfect “opportunity to attack.” He went on to name small pickup trucks in South America, specifically the Fiat Strada and Fullback, both of which Koval has access to. There’s also the Ram 700 in Mexico. However, he was cautious about saying that he’s only using those small trucks as an example.

Koval had nothing more to add on the matter but stated that “it’s no secret that that particular segment is a large white space opportunity.” This could ultimately mean that the USA-Canada market could be getting a smaller Ram truck at some point in the future that reincarnates the Dakota name. But again, the answer is cryptic.

Koval also commented on the Ram EV line and boldly stated that “our truck will be the best.” Given that existing customers are playing a massive role in the vehicle’s development, it could be a home run for the company on that side of things. Koval also revealed that Ram’s engineers have already made changes to the truck due to customer feedback. They’re also keeping a watchful eye on the competition for any unexpected hiccups that they can potentially fix before its first fully electric vehicle.