SALTILLO, COAH.- With the return of the RAM 1500 to Mexican manufacturing and the presentation of the RAM 1200 , Stellantis consolidated its pickup offensive from the Saltillo Derramadero complex, where the brand announced the local production of its flagship model and technical improvements geared towards the national and export market.
In that regard, Miguel Ceballos, Director of Communications for Stellantis Mexico, highlighted the significance of the announcement within the industrial transformation process that the group is undergoing, which today includes 14 brands and concentrates one of its most important production platforms in North America in the country.
“For Stellantis, Mexico is a strategic point within our global network. From here we manufacture vehicles that reach different markets around the world, and we do so with the talent of our people and with a firm commitment to quality and sustainability,” he said.
For his part, Carlos Meymar, director of the RAM brand in Mexico , commented that the RAM 1500 is once again being assembled in Mexico after two and a half years without local production, strengthening the company’s presence in the Light Duty segment .
“We are very pleased to announce that the RAM 1500 is returning to be made in Mexico, and not only that: it will be made in Mexico and for Mexico. Proudly made in Saltillo,” the executive stated during the presentation.
The new RAM 1500 Tradesman , the first model assembled on this line, will be offered with two engine configurations:
- 3.0 liter I6 Hurricane SO Twin Turbo 4×4, with 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.6-liter V6 24V VVT eTorque, with 305 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 269 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm, available in 4×2 and 4×4 versions.
The unit incorporates more than 10 active and passive safety systems , steel wheels and off-road tires, plus an 8.4-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
It also has a cargo volume of 1.5 cubic meters and a load capacity ranging from 820 to 912 kilograms (depending on the powertrain configuration), Meymar said.
RAM 1200 2026: More capacity and efficiency
During the event, the 2026 RAM 1200 was also unveiled , featuring a redesign focused on performance and versatility. Highlights include a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 217 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque , four-wheel disc brakes, electric power steering , and two new versions: the chassis cab and the Big Horn 4×4 , expanding the options for customers who require off-road capability.
“We updated everything that you can’t see, but you can feel while riding. We improved the engines, the transmissions, and the handling precision. The 1200 is now more efficient, safer, and more comfortable,” Meymar noted.
With a payload capacity of 1,200 kilograms and a towing capacity of up to three tons, the pickup truck aims to maintain its position as a benchmark in its segment. Its starting price is 449,000 pesos for the chassis cab version.
Mexican manufacturing for a global market
The Saltillo plant will manufacture the RAM 1500 primarily for the Mexican, U.S., and Canadian markets. Víctor Medina, Plant Manager of the Saltillo Derramadero Complex, reported that the facilities were expanded to accommodate the new Light Duty production line , with an installed capacity of 163,000 units per year and a technological investment that positions it as one of the most modern in North America.
The industrial launch was completed in just 18 months, reaching five thousand units produced and preparing to operate with two production shifts and more than two thousand direct and six thousand indirect jobs.
The operation also reflects a change in the composition of its workforce: currently, 40% of the staff working at the plant are women . Medina emphasized that this diversity strengthens production processes and the culture of innovation within the complex.
The Saltillo Light Duty plant also incorporates a seat assembly line , becoming the first Stellantis plant in North America to integrate this process into its own production chain.
The complex covers 167,000 square meters and the integration of the seating line positions Mexico as a benchmark in advanced manufacturing within Stellantis.
“It is one of the first plants in North America to launch a seat assembly line. In Europe it started seven months ago, but here at the Saltillo complex we are the first to do it in the region,” he explained.
For his part, Carlos Otero, Service Manager of Mopar Mexico , presented the technical support network that supports the operations of the new pickups.
“At Mopar we have a presence throughout the country, with more than 172 service points and 100 trained technicians from Mérida to Tijuana,” he explained.
He added that the division offers service contracts, scheduled maintenance, and extended warranties of up to six years or 120,000 kilometers, as well as specific programs for fleets.
“If you have a fleet, we support you. It doesn’t matter if you’re a big business owner or a small entrepreneur; we’re here to help you,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of after-sales service within the group’s comprehensive strategy.
“Our sales colleagues serve the customers, but at Mopar we keep them as part of the family. We have comprehensive solutions for fleet owners and certified bodybuilders, with a factory warranty,” he emphasized.
With this industrial expansion and the integration of a national service network, Stellantis strengthens the production and technical support of its commercial vehicles, consolidating Mexico’s participation in its manufacturing strategy for North America.
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