When it comes to super trucks like the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX or Ford F-150 Raptor, it’s all about power. But the Ram 1500 TRX’s Hellcat engine might be on its way out. But why would they get rid of such a powerful engine? 

The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX Hellcat engine is on the chopping block 

Dodge CEO, Tim Kuniskis, said that the days of an iron block supercharged 6.2-liter V8 are numbers. This means that the Hellcat engine in the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX might bite the dust soon. 

Currently, the Hellcat engine is expected to be available in the 2023 Ram TRX. But as massive V8 engines are discontinued, it may receive a different option. Tim Kuniskis mentioned that these engines are being phased out due to compliance costs, not a lack of demand. 

Over the past five years, they’ve sold over 50,000 Hellcats. This was way beyond what their initial expectations were. These figures are impressive because the 2021 Dodge Challenger Hellcat SRT starts at $58,995, and sales are booming. Plus, the base price of the $80,995 didn’t stop the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat from selling out. 

What problems does the TRX Hellcat engine face? 

In the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine is thirsty. It gets an EPA-estimated 10 mpg in the city and up to 14 mpg on the highway. But at least it provides 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. 

Being thirsty is part of the problem as emission standards rise. It will be more expensive to transform this engine into a complaint option. Plus, the industry is being impacted by rising fuel costs. 

Also, the entire automotive industry is embracing electrification. Electric vehicles are becoming more accessible from a price point. These vehicles are becoming more performance-based instead of economy-based too. 

Dode is working on a few powerful electrified models, and Kunikis is extremely excited about them. He believes that new technology will save muscle cars and trucks this time around. In the 1970’s they went away due to a variety of factors including high fuel prices, rising insurance rates, and strict emission rules. 

What does the future look like for the Ram 1500 TRX? 

The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX hasn’t been out long and serves as the most potent super-truck available. So, it probably won’t have many changes for 2022. It will keep its Hellcat engine for now, and we could see an electric option in the future. 

Aside from a few new unique colors, the 2022 RAM TRX could gain Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It could gain a few new interior colors as well. But the significant changes won’t happen until the refreshed 2023 model arrives. 

The 2023 Ram TRX will have a new exterior look with an updated headlight design and refreshed interior. It could gain a screen larger than the current 12-inch option too. If an SRT version arrives, it will be lowered. 

You can get started with a Hellcat Ram TRX for about $72,390. Pricing for the 2022 model isn’t expected to increase, but it could rise in price by a few hundred dollars. The 2023 model could cost more, but we will have to wait and see.