Why the Ram 1500 TRX Is Slower Than It Should Be
The Ram 1500 TRX seems to be confusing drivers as to why it’s so slow despite having tons of muscle. But this isn’t a racing truck. It’s an off-roading truck. The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is designed to tackle off-roading challenges and be upgraded for on pavement performance.
Why is the Ram 1500 TRX slow?
The Ram 1500 TRX recently made its debut with a powerful Hellcat engine that pumps out 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. But with this V8 power, the TRX can only reach a top speed of 118 mph.
This is a little disappointing for fans that wanted to see the Ram 1500 TRX race to 180 miles per hour, like the Jeep Trackhawk and Dodge Durango can. However, those are both smaller vehicles compared to the massive full-size TRX.
Some fans also think that the Ram 1500 TRX isn’t beastly enough to take down the infamous Ford Raptor, which only has 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque.
The Ram 1500 TRX can reach 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, which is only 1 second faster than the Ford Raptor. Plus, the Ram TRX can only tow 100lb more than the Ford Raptor.
But the Ram 1500 TRX can go faster
The Ram TRX has an electronically limited speed based on the speed ratings of its tires, which is legally required by the law. The tire speed rating is how fast the tires can safely go before becoming damaged.
As the tires go faster, more outward pressure is placed on them. Plus, the friction from the pavement heats them. At higher speeds, you need higher performance tires.
This is why the Dodge Challenger has Nitto NT05R high-performance drag racing tires. But those are limited to a speed rating to 168 mph, so the Dodge Challenger is limited to that speed as well.
Currently, there are no street legal or DOT-approved tires that meet the grip standards necessary for a massive off-roading truck. So for now, the Ram 1500 TRX has Goodyear tires and speed that’s limited to 118 mph.
How to make the Ram 1500 TRX faster
To make the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX go faster, you could change the tires. You could swap out the large off-roading tires for a set of wheels designed for high speeds on the pavement. For example, the 20” used with the Jeep Trackhawk have a speed rating of 186 mph.
Then things get complicated. You’ll need to take your Ram 1500 TRX to a shop to remove the electronic speed monitor. You’ll also need an unlocked PCM or to unlock the factory PCM. Then with some tuning, the speed governor can be removed.
This wouldn’t provide the Ram 1500 TRX with more power but maybe will offer more speed. The amount of speed is unknown due to the less aerodynamic shape of the body and the heavy curb weight of 5,400 lb. However, it would go faster than 118 mph. Reaching 180 mph like the Jeep Trackhawk would be challenging.
