
Now I know we still haven't seen deliveries begin of 2015/2016 Rebel 1500's but thats not going to stop me from wondering about the future of the Rebel.
FCA is in a cash bind right now, they're pushing back new models and updates in an effort to save on CapEx. Their focus right now is on gaming the highest possible margins from the largest pool of vehicles in their fleet.
The RAM 1500 is FCA's largest volume seller and one of their highest margin makers. Tacking on the Rebel trim only increases those margins.
Now lets consider another high margin maker for FCA, the Hellcat engine. Dodge dealers selling Hellcat equipped cars are making profit of roughly $5,430 for every car sold. Based on the Hellcats $60K+ MSRP, dealers are making 9% margin on each car. Industry average for new car sales is 1%.
Now Hellcat engines are supply constrained currently but I can't help but feel the 2016 Rebel is a test vehicle for the potential of a raptor esque fighter. Perhaps not with all the suspension farkles as the Ford, but certainly with the looks and powerplant to match...
Just a thought, how about you?