Last week, GMC poked fun at Ram on Twitter for
its lack of a sophisticated MultiPro tailgate like the one available on the
2019 Sierra 1500. The trolling didn’t go unnoticed in Auburn Hills, as Ram hit back
with the unveiling of a new Multifunction Tailgate at the Chicago Auto Show.
Ram describes its Multifunction Tailgate as “unique among all pickups” and says
it offers customers “cargo-access flexibility without compromise.” The new
tailgate’s party piece is the 60-40 split, which the company says is a segment
first.
There are four different ways of opening the Ram
Multifunction Tailgate: open flat, open left door only, open right door only,
and open both doors. Each door swings open 88 degrees. For better access, Ram
offers the option of a retractable center-mounted step.
According to the automaker, the new design retains
the capabilities of a fully-dampened, drop-down tailgate with remote release
options, while the dual side-hinged tailgate doors improve access and utility.
For example, independent opening features make curbside loading easier.
Furthermore, loading bulky items is easier, as is
stepping up since the bed can now be accessed closer to the bumper. Ram Trucks
also claims that unloading and washout stand to gain, with the new design
allowing forklift loading as well.
Ram didn’t miss the opportunity to also take a stab
at GMC’s MultiPro tailgate. “Unlike other multi-element tailgates, the Ram
Multifunction Tailgate is trailer-friendly and does not require that the
trailer and hitch be removed before opening,” the press release says. Finally,
it adds that the new tailgate retains all of the traditional tailgate’s
capability, including the 907-kg load rating.
The new Multifunction Tailgate will be available
across all seven 2019 Ram 1500 models from the second quarter of 2019. The
innovative tailgate adds US$ 995 to the total price, with the optional center step
priced at US$ 295.
