AEV Highlights Its Ram 1500 Recruit As FCA Prepares To Launch The Rebel TRX

American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) appears to be feeling the pressure from the upcoming Ram Rebel TRX as the company has decided to highlight its Ram 1500 Recruit.

Originally unveiled last year, the Recruit is a “proof-of-concept image vehicle” that was designed to show how the company can improve the truck’s off-road performance while also maintaining factory ride and handling characteristics.

As part of the transformation process, the truck was given a rugged makeover as it was equipped with AEV bumpers, a snorkel and extended fender flares. The company didn’t stop there as they also installed a ventilated hood, LED auxiliary lights and power retractable running boards.

More practical upgrades occur underneath as the Ram has been outfitted with a 4-inch DualSport-SC suspension system which works with the truck’s Air Ride suspension. It features longer Bilstein shocks and special spacer brackets – among other things. AEV says these changes give the suspension an additional 3 inches (76 mm) of upward travel and an extra 1.5 inches (38 mm) downward of travel.

To ensure the truck can tackle the toughest terrain, the company installed a front skidplate and 18-inch beadlock wheels with BFGoodrich KM2 mud-terrains. The truck has also has cast-aluminum tow loops and a Warn Zeon 10-S winch.

While the upgrades are nice, Ram recently confirmed plans to put the Rebel TRX concept into production. The concept was introduced two years ago featured a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 575 hp (428 kW / 583 PS).

Besides the almighty engine, the concept had an off-road focused suspension with adjustable coilover shocks and 40 percent more travel. The truck was also outfitted with 37-inch tires and a Dynatrac Pro 60 rear axle featuring an electronically limited slip differential.