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The power take-off (PTO) capability of all the Ram chassis cabs has been increased by 55%. In addition, the Cummins 6.7-liter diesel engine will now be available with remote start.

Dodge also announced that it will offer a crew cab in addition to its regular and Quad cab offerings for 2009. The Ram Crew 1500 will be available with a 5-ft. 7-in. box.

General Motors showcases new cutaway van
General Motors used the Work Truck Show to announce the 2009 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana 4500 commercial cutaway van. A new, stronger chassis enables a 14,200-lb. GVW with lower mass, giving it a payload rating of 9,100 lbs. It is available with up to a 20,000-lb. GCWR.

The Express/Savana 4500 can be powered with either a Vortec 6.0-liter V8 gasoline engine or a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8. The Vortec is rated at 323 hp, while the Duramax is rated at 250 hp and pumps out 460 lb.-ft. of torque.

A Hydra-Matic HD 4L85E electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmission features a brazed torque converter turbine, induction-hardened turbine shaft, five-pinion reaction and output gear and improved overrun roller clutch.