FYI: Stellantis may be reviving a classic touch with a new patent application showcasing a hood ornament for RAM pickups.
Stellantis is reportedly exploring a nostalgic upgrade for its RAM pickup trucks by potentially reintroducing hood ornaments, a detail that has mostly disappeared from the modern automotive landscape. This move comes after a recent patent application revealed the automaker’s interest in reclaiming this bold design element, which once graced the hoods of the legendary RAM lineup when it was part of the Dodge family.
Patent Details & Design Concept
The application, filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, contains designs for a RAM head hood ornament, adorned with the recognizable truck brand logo. The patent, submitted by Stellantis on January 14, 2025, and initially filed on March 13, 2023, spans a potential 15-year protection plan. This development, however, does not necessarily confirm the ornament’s appearance on future production vehicles, but rather suggests Stellantis’ intention to preserve a piece of RAM’s heritage.
A Nod to Classic Elegance
Once a hallmark of luxury vehicles, hood ornaments have largely become a relic of the past, typically seen only on high-end models such as Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and Mercedes-Benz sedans. Recently, Cadillac revived this design aspect for its Celestiq EV flagship, while Mercedes added it to its EQ models for a vintage appeal. Though this design element is usually reserved for luxury vehicles, its potential return to the robust RAM trucks might signal a new design direction for Stellantis, blending tradition with modernity.
Leadership and Strategic Shifts at RAM
The brand also witnesses notable leadership changes and strategic pivots. Tim Kuniskis, previously associated with Dodge’s Hellcat legacy, has assumed the role of CEO for RAM after a brief retirement. This appointment comes at a time when Stellantis seeks a dedicated leader for RAM, an indication of its importance as a top-performing and highly profitable product line for the corporation.
Electrification and Future Prospects
In parallel with these design considerations, RAM is evolving its electrification strategy. The company is advancing plans for its RAM 1500 Ramcharger plug-in hybrid, which is set to precede its all-electric Rev pickups. Stellantis has also scrapped the larger battery version of the Rev, once touted for a 500-mile range, and is contemplating medium-sized trucks that might expand the RAM lineup further.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Stellantis reconsiders a nostalgic element through hood ornaments, it simultaneously aligns its strategy with modern trends such as electrification and focused leadership. Whether these ornamental features make it to the showroom floor, they signify a powerful connection to RAM’s storied past. For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
