First 2021 Ram 1500 TRX sells for more than $500,000 in charity auction
The high-performance supercharged V8 pick-up is expected to launch in Australia later this year.
The first production example of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has been bought by an unnamed buyer for US$410,000 (AU$540,000) at a charity auction – more than five times higher than its RRP.
US car giants Ford, General Motors, Dodge – and now truck subsidiary Ram – have sold the first production vehicles of highly sought-after performance models at auctions in recent years to raise money for worthwhile causes.
According to a Barrett-Jackson listing, VIN 001 is finished in 'Anvil Gray,' and has red and brushed aluminium centre console badging, a head-up display, carbon-fibre interior trim, a colour accent package, and a panoramic sunroof.
Power comes from a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 sending 516kW/881Nm to the ground through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This allows the 2880kg goliath to accelerate from 0-60mph (97km/h) in a claimed 4.5 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 190km/h.
Mike Koval Jr, Ram CEO, said: “When the 1500 TRX VIN 001 rolled off the assembly line, it instantly became an incredibly exciting one-of-a-kind collectible truck that was reflected by the winning bid.”
“More importantly, we’re thrilled that the first Ram 1500 TRX raised significant funds that will go directly to the United Way for Southeast Michigan’s 2-1-1 helpline to provide services to veterans and their families.”
Record-breaking vehicle prices are often secured at charity events, due to laws allowing ‘donations’ to be written off come tax time.
According to the listing, 100 per cent of the sale price will go to United Way for Southeastern Michigan – a non-profit organisation focused on poverty alleviation in the US Midwest.
While not yet available locally, the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is expected to be sold by official importer Ram Trucks Australia later this year. Deposits have reportedly already been placed via the Ram Trucks Australia website and at dealers.
While Australian pricing has yet to be confirmed, it's expected the performance pick-up will cost close to or in excess of $180,000 once it has been converted locally to right-hand drive.
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