Ecodiesel: 19.46 MPG Towing 7,020 lbs.
dieselpowermag.com: Ram 1500 Ecodiesel vs. Ram 2500 CTD comparison (dated Feb 24,2014). dieselpowermag.com link In this comparison the Ram 1500 Ecodiesel got 19.46 MPG towing a 7,020 lb. load on...
Forum Discussion
IMO, I think it's a forgone conclusion that the Ecodiesel has the ability to obtain its EPA MPG estimates in the realworld without a lot of fuss. Test, after test, after test, after test, has resulted in the same conspiracy theory---this truck gets good, realworld mileage--under all conditions. This has not been the case with a number of other 1/2 ton trucks.
For the cost/benefit folks, let's keep it simple. Under the same operating conditions, the Ecodiesel appears to be getting approx. 40% better "realworld" fuel economy than other comparable 1/2 ton high-torque engines. As long as diesel doesn't increase more than 39% of the cost of gas, you're ahead. Sure, there's DEF and such which can drag this percentage down a bit. But, the bottom line? This truck has the potential to save people money.
Again, I realize this is primarily a towing forum. As such, the Ecodiesel will probably not be a popular TV with the majority of folks here. However, for those with less demanding TV needs, it's worthy of serious consideration. I see the Ecodiesel as a good thing for the entire marketplace. It's stirring up a lot of interest--8000 units ordered in just a few days! For me, the initial success of the Ecodiesel bodes well for more diesel trucks in our future.
For the cost/benefit folks, let's keep it simple. Under the same operating conditions, the Ecodiesel appears to be getting approx. 40% better "realworld" fuel economy than other comparable 1/2 ton high-torque engines. As long as diesel doesn't increase more than 39% of the cost of gas, you're ahead. Sure, there's DEF and such which can drag this percentage down a bit. But, the bottom line? This truck has the potential to save people money.
Again, I realize this is primarily a towing forum. As such, the Ecodiesel will probably not be a popular TV with the majority of folks here. However, for those with less demanding TV needs, it's worthy of serious consideration. I see the Ecodiesel as a good thing for the entire marketplace. It's stirring up a lot of interest--8000 units ordered in just a few days! For me, the initial success of the Ecodiesel bodes well for more diesel trucks in our future.
