DETROIT, Dec. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- "Heavy duty" doesn't have to mean "heavy." Through the use of advanced high-strength steel, the 2010 Ram Heavy Duty truck proves you don't have to compromise muscle for lighter, more efficient materials - and the automotive media are starting to take notice. Yesterday, Motor Trend magazine selected the new Ram Heavy Duty as its Truck of the Year, giving the North American steel industry and AISI's Steel Market Development Institute a reason to celebrate.

The Ram Heavy Duty features a road-tested, proven commercial-grade frame and suspension system with best-in-class frame steel strength. Advanced high-strength steel is also used on the truck's one-piece C-channel rear frame rail for added strength and durability.

"Lightweight advanced and ultra high-strength steels offer automakers a cost-effective solution to meet market demands for safety, fuel economy and emissions standards," said Ron Krupitzer, vice president of automotive applications for AISI's Steel Market Development Institute. "Dodge's use of high-strength steels in the new Ram Heavy Duty truck also demonstrates steel's structural benefits and capacity for strength and stability. From the steel frame and suspension, right down to the steel wheels, the Dodge Ram is as tough as nails."

Motor Trend's Truck of the Year award began in 1979. Candidates for the Motor Trend Truck of the Year are evaluated based on design advancement, engineering excellence, intended function, efficiency, safety and value. In addition, eligible vehicles must have been substantially changed from the previous model.

To learn more about AISI's Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI) and advanced and ultra high-strength steel, visit www.autosteel.org.

AISI serves as the voice of the North American steel industry in the public policy arena and through its business unit, SMDI, conducts research with its member companies in partnership with its customers to advance the use of steel in the marketplace.

The Automotive Applications Council is a part of AISI's Steel Market Development Institute. The council focuses on advancing the use of steel in the highly competitive automotive market. For more news or information, visit www.autosteel.org.

Automotive Applications Council investors are:

• ArcelorMittal Dofasco
• ArcelorMittal USA
• Nucor Corporation
• Severstal North America
• United States Steel Corporation

SOURCE American Iron and Steel Institute

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