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RAM, Jeep, Chrysler & Dodge: A Brief History of Iconic Brands

28
October
2024




Four of the world’s most trusted makes of vehicles are RAM, Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodge. Each of these automotive brands has a storied history dating back decades, and all of these companies have models available for sale today at Desmeules Chrysler, your trusted local car dealership Laval.

History of Chrysler

Chrysler was founded in 1925 by Walter P. Chrysler and built off the infrastructure of its predecessor company, Maxwell Motor Company. The first release under Chrysler, however, came a year prior. In 1924, the Chrysler Six quickly became known for its advanced engineering.

Chrysler established a reputation for innovation early on with high-compression engines and hydraulic brakes in the 1920s and then a floating power engine mount and Airflow aerodynamics design in the 1930s.

In the early 1950s, Chrysler introduced the Hemi V8 engine, which was known for its strong performance and garnered a lot of attention from industry insiders, designers, and automotive manufacturers.

Despite being seen as a symbol of luxury and high performance in the 1960s, Chrysler struggled in the 1970s. In the 1980s, Chrysler found its footing again, becoming a leader in the minivan market with the release of the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. This is where Chrystler’s attention largely remains today, with the Chrysler Pacifica minivan and Chrysler 300 sedan.

Models to Look for at Your Chrysler Dealership Laval

Visit our Chrysler dealership Laval today and test drive one of our top models!

  • Chrysler Pacifica is a top minivan with family-friendly Stow N’ Go seating and advanced safety features to make it one of the best family transportation vehicles there is.
  • Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid adaptation of the Pacifica, improving fuel efficiency and providing up to 53 km of electric driving range on a single charge.
  • Chrysler Grand Caravan is a budget-friendly minivan perfect for parents and families who want maximum cargo space, reliability, and versatility.

History of RAM

For years, the RAM was a name associated with Dodge. It was the name given to Dodge’s then-new line of trucks, which first appeared in the early 1980s. Under Dodge, RAM trucks were bold and rugged and defined by the iconic ram’s head logo.

In the 1990s, sales of RAM trucks firmly established Dodge as a leader in the category, beginning with the introduction of the 1994 RAM 1500. The truck was an instant hit, increased Dodge’s market share, and influenced other truck designs for the remainder of the decade.

Fast-forward to 2009, when parent company Chrysler made the decision to split RAM from Dodge and create an entirely separate brand for it. This was when RAM was established as its own company, targeting exclusively truck buyers.

Models to Look for at Your Local RAM Dealership Laval

Here are some of the iconic models to find at Desmeules Chrysler, your local RAM dealership Laval.

  • RAM 1500 is a full-size pickup with excellent towing capacity, comfort, and versatility.
  • RAM 2500 is built for heavy-duty tasks with a powerful engine to excel in demanding environments.
  • RAM 5500 is a commercial-grade truck with extreme towing and hauling capacity.

History of Jeep

Jeep’s origins date back to the early 1940s when the US military was seeking a versatile, durable reconnaissance vehicle for use in World War II.

Its beginnings as a military vehicle is where the name originated from. The models manufactured during this period were fondly called ‘Jeeps’ because of the phonetic resemblance to the army term GP, or ‘General Purpose’ vehicle.

When it came time to release the Jeep as a civilian vehicle post-war, it struggled to find its identity. At first, they were marketed as a tough, multi-purpose vehicle for farmers, ranchers, and construction workers, but their popularity waned.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Jeeps were predominantly advertised to off-road enthusiasts and started to find their footing. Then, in 1963, the Jeep Wagoner was released. As one of the first luxury SUVs, its design and those that followed in the 1970s and 1980s prioritized comfort and features.

Where Jeep truly hit its stride was when Chrysler purchased the brand in 1987. Under Chrysler’s ownership, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was released in 1992 and helped to shape the growing SUV market of the time.

Jeep has continued to grow ever since, with recent models including crossover SUVs like the Jeep Renegade and Jeep Compass. These variants of the classic design continue to appeal to urban drivers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Jeep Gladiator pick-up truck was also launched in 2019, another innovative design further growing the brand’s customer base.

Models to Look for at Your Jeep Dealership Laval

Desmeules Chrysler, your Jeep dealership Laval, is the best place to learn more about these iconic vehicles.

  • Jeep Grand Cherokee is your premium SUV with off-road capabilities, a luxurious interior, and advanced design prioritizing adventure and comfort.
  • Jeep Wrangler has its classic open-air design, 4x4 capability, and trailblazing off-road performance.
  • Jeep Gladiator offers an unmatched combination of Jeep’s off-road prowess and the utility of a pickup truck.

History of Dodge

Dodge was founded in the early 1990s as the Dodge Brothers Company, initially a supplier of parts to Detroit’s auto industry.

In 1914, the company launched its first vehicle, the Dodge Model 30. It was considered, at the time, an advancement over the Ford Model T. In two short years, after securing contracts with the US Army, Dodge rose to become the second-largest automaker in the United States.

Dodge was purchased by Chrysler in 1928. From there, Dodge continued to evolve and produce reliable vehicles. During the 1960s and 1970s, Dodge became known for its muscle cars, such as the Dodge Charger in 1966 and the Dodge Challenger in 1970.

In the early 1970s, the Dodge brand was held in high regard for the speed and aggressive style of its vehicles. Dodges were common in motorsports, drag racing, and NASCAR.

In 1984, Dodge released the Caravan, the first modern minivan. This was a massive commercial success and became a category in which Dodge is still well-known and dominant.

From the 1990s to the present, Dodge also re-engaged with its muscle car high-performance side with a half-dozen models that won industry acclaim. This revitalization began with the Dodge Viper in 1992, a dominant model in the performance sports car category. The Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger were then released in retro styles, and the sporty Dodge Hellcat has high horsepower and falls in line with the brand’s long-standing muscle car traditions.

Models to Look for at Your Dodge Dealership Laval

Find the ultimate in performance and style at Blainville Chrysler, your trusted Dodge dealership Laval.

  • Dodge Hornet is a compact SUV with a bold design and one of the most powerful engines in its class.
  • Dodge Hornet PHEV is the plug-in hybrid alteration of the Hornet, capable of fast acceleration, strong fuel efficiency, and blending performance and sustainability in a single vehicle.
  • Dodge Durango is a three-row SUV backed with the power of a muscle car underneath the hood.

Choose Desmeules Chrysler as Your Car Dealership Laval!

Browse the new and pre-owned inventory at Desmeules Chrysler online or in-person to find the perfect Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM for you. There is a car, truck, or vehicle for everyone at our car dealership Laval, whether you are looking for luxury, sustainability, or something family-friendly. Contact us today!

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