Reimagining a Classic Workhorse: The 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas played host to a stunning creation from Mopar: the Lowliner Concept. Taking a classic 1968 Dodge D200 pickup truck as its foundation, Mopar’s design and engineering teams crafted a radical reimagining, transforming the utilitarian workhorse into a ground-hugging, diesel-powered hot rod. The Lowliner Concept masterfully blended vintage truck aesthetics with modern performance upgrades and a distinctly lowrider stance, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and showcasing Mopar’s creative prowess in the custom vehicle realm.
A Stance That Commands Attention: The most immediately striking aspect of the Mopar Lowliner Concept was its dramatically lowered ride height. Achieving this extreme “slammed” look required significant chassis modifications. The frame of the original D200 was sectioned both at the front and the rear, effectively bringing the body closer to the ground and creating an undeniably aggressive profile. This low stance, paired with the truck’s classic lines, resulted in a unique visual juxtaposition that was both captivating and undeniably cool, embodying the spirit of a true lowrider build.
Modern Diesel Power: Underneath the Lowliner’s vintage sheet metal resided a thoroughly modern and potent heart: a Cummins 5.9-liter turbodiesel engine. This robust powerplant, renowned for its torque and reliability, provided a significant departure from the D200’s original engine options, injecting a dose of contemporary performance into the classic platform. The choice of a diesel engine further underscored the concept’s blend of workhorse heritage with custom hot-rod attitude, offering both grunt and a distinctive diesel rumble.
Manual Control: Pairing the torquey Cummins engine was a DaimlerChrysler-era six-speed manual transmission. This deliberate choice catered to driving enthusiasts who appreciate the engagement and control offered by a manual gearbox. Mopar’s team even shortened the throw of the shifter to ensure it wouldn’t interfere with the custom bench seat, demonstrating a keen attention to detail in both performance and ergonomics. The manual transmission further solidified the Lowliner’s hot-rod character, making it a truck meant to be driven and enjoyed.
Custom Interior Comfort: The interior of the Mopar Lowliner Concept received a comprehensive makeover, seamlessly blending vintage design elements with modern comfort and style. A custom-stitched bench seat, upholstered in rich tan leather with contrasting orange stitching, provided a comfortable and stylish place to sit. The dashboard and door panels likely received subtle updates to complement the overall aesthetic, creating a cohesive and inviting cabin that honored the truck’s heritage while embracing modern craftsmanship.
Wheels and Finish: The Lowliner Concept rolled on custom-designed 22-inch front and rear wheels featuring a classic “smoothie” look, a nod to traditional hot-rod styling. These large-diameter wheels filled the dramatically reduced wheel wells, further emphasizing the truck’s slammed stance. The exterior finish was a unique “Candy Apple Red” paint with a carefully applied distressed or patina effect. This deliberate choice gave the truck a sense of history and character, suggesting a well-loved vehicle that has been given a new lease on life with modern upgrades.
A SEMA Showstopper: The Mopar Lowliner Concept was undoubtedly one of the standout vehicles at the 2019 SEMA Show. Its radical transformation of a classic pickup, combining a slammed stance with modern diesel power and thoughtful custom touches, resonated strongly with show attendees. The concept served as a powerful demonstration of Mopar’s ability to blend heritage with innovation, creating a truly unique and memorable vehicle that captured the spirit of customization and hot-rodding.
Summary:
- Mopar Lowliner Concept: a slammed 1968 Dodge D200 pickup.
- Powered by a Cummins 5.9-liter turbodiesel engine.
- Six-speed manual transmission with a shortened throw.
- Heavily modified chassis for an extreme lowrider stance.
- Custom interior with tan leather bench seat and orange stitching.
- “Candy Apple Red” paint with a distressed patina finish.
Disclaimer: Concept vehicles may include features that are not available on production models. Specifications and availability of custom parts may vary.
Source : Dodge
AI Assistance: Gemini
