Chrysler hopes to increase truck sales with new model

Chrysler LLC on Friday launched its redesigned Dodge Ram full-size pickup truck, a vehicle that is expected to help the automaker ride out a deep downturn in the U.S. auto market.

The 2009 model-year truck, which will go up against market leading models from larger rivals Ford Motor Co and General Motors Corp, comes as U.S. truck sales are falling and the overall vehicle demand is at 15-year lows.

Still, Chrysler executives hope the new model -- which boasts of more storage space and has improved fuel economy -- will boost its share of the U.S. truck market.

Chrysler Vice Chairman and President Jim Press told reporters he "anticipates sales growth" with the new model.

"We really feel the timing is good," Press said. "It's a huge market. There is pent-up demand."
Press said that even though truck sales have fallen in recent months, more than 160,000 pickup trucks are sold every month in the U.S. market. Chrysler aims to take more of that market.

A slumping U.S. economy and high gas prices have prompted consumers to shift toward more fuel-efficient smaller cars and crossovers and away from large trucks and SUVs.

Sales of pickup trucks dropped about 19 percent through August, outpacing the 11 percent decline in the overall vehicle market, according to Auto data Corp.

The new Ram truck base model starts from $22,170, but the price could increase to over $40,000 for more advanced models and additional features.

Press said there would be minimal incentives on the new truck.

Chrysler, long lauded for cramming more storage space into its top-selling minivans, used the same concept in the Ram.

The new Ram, aimed at work crews who need to lock up their tools and other equipment, features weatherproof and lockable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides.

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