Chrysler has unveiled the new Ram ProMaster City commercial van, a model that executives say will be a strong contender in a growing segment.
Scheduled to arrive in dealerships late this year or in early 2015, the Ram ProMaster will compete with the Ford Transit Connect, the Nissan NV200 and the Chevrolet City Express, the Detroit Free Press reported.
"This van represents big capability in a small design," said Mike Cairns, vehicle line executive for Ram trucks, as quoted by the Free Press.
The second commercial Van introduced in the Ram lineup, the Ram ProMaster City has been adapted from the Fiat Doblo, a commercial van sold in Europe. The ProMaster runs on a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 178 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque.
"These types of vehicles have been around for 100 years. So long as there are packages to be delivered, boxes to be delivered, electricians, plumbers and tradesmen who need to get to the job site, there is going to be a market for a van like this," said Reid Bigland, Ram brand CEO and head of Chrysler's U.S. sales, as quoted by the Free Press.
Designed with commercial customers in mind, the ProMaster City will be sold in a cargo version and a five-seat passenger version. Around 65 percent of buyers will purchase the cargo version, Bigland estimated; however, he declined to predict overall sales figures.
The van can carry up to 1,883 pounds in cargo, while both sides of the vehicle feature a sliding door for straightforward access. The reinforced roof can carry 154 pounds.
Around 100,000 small commercial vans sell in the U.S. each year, according to Chrysler estimates. The automaker predicts that the segment will continue to grow.
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