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Dodge had a popular hit in '78 with its Li'l Red Truck — a vehicle now in demand by collectors. It had a macho truck image and good performance from a converter-free 360-cu.-in. V8. The Mopar folks are trying to recapture some of that magic with their LRT (Little Red Truck) convertible based on the V8-powered Dakota.
The unique front-end treatment is designed to look tough and aggressive. According to the designers, the grille pontoon fenders with flush aero lamps and integral bumper emulate a Peterbilt look.
The top and bed are special features on this 4x4. The convertible top uses retractable metal panels which stow behind the bucket seats. They are moved by electric motors, similar to the old Ford retractable hardtop. The tracking mechanism for the system is housed in the sports bar, which also supports off-road lights.
The bed tilts like a dump truck, and a winch/conveyor track allows easy loading/unloading of an ATV. The package is rounded out by 17-in. wheels similar to those used on the '89 Dodge Viper R/T concept car.
Source: Cliff Gromer "Trucks Dream Haulers" - Popular Mechanics, Sep 1990
Images: Dodge
