2025 vs. 2026 Ram 1500: What's Changed and What Still Shines?

Truck buyers who want electric-driving benefits without giving up towing muscle or long-distance freedom have a new option to watch. The 2027 Ramcharger range extended EV specs, now finalized under the Ram 1500 REV name, describe a full-size Ram truck that runs primarily on battery power while carrying its own onboard generator, so drivers never have to plan a trip around public charging stations. We're tracking what's known so far about this truck and why it matters for owners around Carmel, NY. What Is the 2027 Ram 1500 REV? The Ram 1500 REV is built on the fifth-generation Ram 1500 platform and marketed as a range-extended full-size EV, or EREV. Unlike a standard hybrid, it's designed to drive on electric power for most trips while keeping a gas-powered generator on board as a backup energy source rather than a direct source of wheel power. This setup targets drivers who want EV efficiency around town but still need serious range and towing capability for weekend projects or long commutes. You can browse the current Ram 1500 inventory in Carmel, NY while we track this truck's arrival. A Quick Naming Note If you've searched for "Ramcharger Carmel NY," you're not far off. The truck was originally announced as the Ram 1500 Ramcharger before Ram officially renamed it the Ram 1500 REV. From here on, we'll call it the Ram 1500 REV, since that's the name you'll see on the truck once it reaches dealer lots. How the Range-Extended Powertrain Works The Ram 1500 REV pairs electric drive motors with a gas-powered generator, giving it a layered approach to power delivery. A range extender, in plain terms, is a gas engine that makes electricity instead of turning the wheels. That electricity either feeds the battery or powers the electric motors directly, and the truck decides which path makes sense based on how you're driving. Dual Electric Drive Modules: Pure Electric Propulsion Two Electric Drive Modules, or EDMs, handle propulsion: a 250 kW unit up front and a 248 kW unit at the rear. This dual-motor layout supports AWD traction and gives the truck immediate torque response, since electric motors deliver full power the instant you press the pedal. The front EDM also includes an automatic wheel-end disconnect, which improves efficiency by disengaging the front motor when extra traction isn't needed. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 Generator's Role The 3.6L Pentastar V6 never turns the wheels directly. It runs as a generator instead, converting mechanical power into electricity that recharges the 92-kWh battery or feeds the EDMs when needed. Gas power extends range without ever bypassing the electric drivetrain, so the driving experience stays consistent whether you're running on battery or generator support. Key Battery, Power, and Range Specs The numbers behind the Ram 1500 REV point to a truck built for both daily electric use and long hauls: Battery: 92 kWh liquid-cooled, roughly 69.7 kWh usable Onboard generator: 130 kW, fed by a 27-gallon fuel tank Electric drive modules: 250 kW front, 248 kW rear Electric-only range: 145 miles Total combined range: 690 miles DC fast charging: up to 145 kW, adding 50 miles in about 10 minutes In-bed power panel: up to 7.2 kW for job sites or tailgates Output: 647 hp, 610 lb-ft, 0-60 in 4.5 seconds Towing: up to 14,000 lbs with a Class 5 hitch Payload: up to 2,625 lbs That 92-kWh figure comes with a caveat worth knowing: about 69.7 kWh is usable, with the rest held in reserve so the truck doesn't lose power as the battery drains. That buffer matters most when there's 14,000 pounds behind you. Compared with a pure BEV, the REV doesn't need frequent charging stops, since the generator recharges the battery on the move. Compared with a gas truck, it offers 145 miles of quiet electric-only driving before the generator kicks in at all. Carmel drivers watching this truck are looking at something that sits between the two. Power Mode Selector and One Pedal Driving Explained The Power Mode Selector lets drivers choose how the truck balances electric and generator power, built around real-world driving scenarios rather than just spec-sheet settings. Alongside Electric+, E-Save, and Eco Modes, the system also includes eAWD Mode and eSport Mode for added traction and performance tuning. One Pedal Driving rounds out the experience by using regenerative braking to capture energy when you ease off the accelerator, feeding it back into the battery. It's a small feature with real impact around town, since every stoplight and off-ramp becomes a chance to recover a bit of range. Electric+, E-Save, and Eco Modes Electric+ Mode maximizes battery-only driving, which suits local errands or a commute where you'd rather skip the generator entirely. E-Save Mode does the opposite, using the generator to preserve battery charge, which comes in handy if you know you'll need electric-only power later, say for a quiet campsite or a low-emission zone. Eco Mode blends the two for balanced, everyday efficiency without asking the driver to think about it. Full-Size Truck Utility: Horsepower, Torque, and Towing Ram built the REV to hold its own against traditional full-size pickups. Ram's targeted figures put output at 647 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. On the towing side, Ram targets up to 14,000 lbs with a Class 5 hitch and a payload rating up to 2,625 lbs, its own marketing claims rather than independently verified rankings. That's the kind of towing capacity that matters for anyone hauling equipment, trailers, or livestock on a regular basis. Driving Freedom for Putnam County Truck Owners For Ram 1500 REV Putnam County shoppers, along with drivers across Westchester County and the wider Hudson Valley, the appeal comes down to flexibility. You get electric efficiency for daily driving and a built-in backup plan for longer trips or heavy towing days, without needing to map out charging stops in advance. Winter Commutes on the Taconic State Parkway Cold-weather commuting on routes like the Taconic State Parkway between Carmel and Poughkeepsie asks a lot of any vehicle. The REV's AWD setup and instant electric torque help with traction on slick roads, while the onboard generator means a dead battery from cold-weather range loss isn't a concern for your daily drive. Towing Across the Hudson Valley Without Public Charging Local trades, landscaping crews, and weekend boaters across the Hudson Valley often haul trailers well outside city limits, where charging stations are scarce. Because the generator recharges the battery while driving, range doesn't depend on finding a charger, and that's what separates this truck from a bigger number on a spec sheet. Ram 1500 REV FAQs for Carmel, NY Drivers Is the Ramcharger the same as the Ram 1500 REV? Yes. The truck was first announced as the Ramcharger before Ram settled on the Ram 1500 REV name for production. What is the Ram 1500 REV's electric-only range? Ram states 145 miles of all-electric range, with a total combined range of 690 miles once the generator is factored in. Does the Ram REV need public charging to hit its full range? No. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 generator recharges the battery on the go, so the truck doesn't depend on charging infrastructure for extended trips. What is the Ram REV's towing capacity? Ram's targeted figures list towing up to 14,000 lbs with a Class 5 hitch and payload up to 2,625 lbs. When is the Ram 1500 REV release date? Ram has not finalized a firm on-sale date, so we recommend checking with our sales team for the latest availability updates as launch details are confirmed. Watch for the Ram 1500 REV at Meadowland of Carmel CDJR The Ram 1500 REV is shaping up to be one of the more interesting releases in the full-size truck class, combining genuine towing capability with a range-extended EV powertrain built for drivers who don't want to plan their day around a charger. We'll keep sharing updates on availability as Ram finalizes launch details. Browse Inventory or Reach Out Keep an eye on our Ram truck inventory in Carmel, NY. The moment 2027 Ram 1500 REV units are allocated to us, that's where they'll show up first. In the meantime, our sales team at 845-704-4245 can answer questions about how the REV compares to a gas 1500 for your towing needs. Meadowland of Carmel CDJR has served the Carmel, Poughkeepsie, Brewster, and Danbury communities since 1972, and as part of Volz Auto Group, we're looking forward to bringing the Ram 1500 REV to our customers once it arrives.

Choosing between the 2026 Ram ProMaster Gas vs. ProMaster EV comes down to one question: what does your route actually demand? A contractor hauling equipment through rural Putnam County has very different needs than a delivery operation running tight loops around downtown Carmel. Both vans wear the ProMaster name, but they're built for different jobs. We work with fleet managers and small business owners across Carmel, Poughkeepsie, Brewster, and Mahopac every week, and this breakdown reflects the questions we hear most often. You can also browse our new commercial inventory now. 2026 Ram ProMaster: Choosing the Right Powertrain for Hudson Valley Businesses The 2026 Ram ProMaster lineup splits into two distinct paths. The gas ProMaster runs on a proven V6 and delivers the payload and towing numbers that heavy-duty operations depend on. The EV gives up some of that hauling muscle in exchange for lower running costs and a quieter ride, which works well for businesses sticking to local, predictable routes. For Hudson Valley businesses, geography matters as much as spec sheets. A route that stays within Carmel's town limits looks nothing like one that stretches out toward Cold Spring or across the state line into Danbury, CT. Before comparing numbers, think honestly about how many miles you drive each day, how heavy your loads run, and how much flexibility your operation actually needs. Key Specs Comparison: ProMaster Gas vs. ProMaster EV Below is how the two powertrains stack up on paper, based on Ram's published specifications for the 2026 model year. Powertrain Torque/Horsepower Payload Towing Cargo Volume Range/MPG Gas (3.6L Pentastar V6) 276 hp / 250 lb-ft Up to 4,750 lbs Up to 6,910 lbs Up to 524 cu ft Owner-reported 14-20 MPG ProMaster EV 268 hp / 302 lb-ft Up to 3,170 lbs Not published Comparable cargo configs Up to 164 miles combined The gap in payload and towing is the biggest differentiator here, and it's the number most fleet managers ask about first. Powertrain Performance: V6 Towing Power vs. Instant Electric Torque The gas ProMaster's 3.6L Pentastar V6 produces 276 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, paired with a TorqueFlite automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It's a well-established combination Ram has refined over years of commercial use. The EV counters with a 200-kW electric motor generating 268 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque, delivered instantly from a standstill. That instant torque advantage isn't just a spec sheet talking point. In stop-and-go traffic, it means smoother, more responsive acceleration without the lag of a traditional engine building power. Businesses running frequent short stops, delivery drivers hopping in and out every few blocks, for example, tend to notice the difference right away. Gas ProMaster: Highway Range and Heavy-Duty Capability The gas ProMaster still holds the edge for long-distance work. Since it runs on conventional fuel, refueling takes minutes rather than hours, and the van isn't limited by charging infrastructure availability. With a 10,000-mile oil change interval and best-in-class 36-foot turning diameter, it handles both highway stretches and tighter job-site maneuvering with ease. For businesses covering ground between Carmel, Brewster, and Poughkeepsie, that flexibility matters. ProMaster EV: 110-kWh Battery and 164-Mile City Range The ProMaster EV is built around a 400-volt, 110-kWh battery pack. Ram's manufacturer estimates put combined range at up to 164 miles when loaded at 50% payload, with city range estimated up to 161 miles. That range comfortably covers most local delivery loops within and around Carmel, but it requires planning around charging access, especially for businesses without a home base to plug in overnight. Ram offers three charging options: Level 1 (120V top-off), Level 2 (240V, full overnight charge), and Level 3 DC fast charging. Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, Level 2 typically brings a battery-electric van from empty to 80% in 4-10 hours, while DC fast charging reaches 80% in as little as 20 minutes to an hour. If you want to feel the difference in torque and cabin quiet for yourself, scheduling a test drive is the easiest way to judge fit. Payload, Cargo, and Upfit Capabilities for Local Fleets Payload capacity often decides this comparison before range or performance even enter the conversation. Businesses hauling tools and equipment need to know exactly how much weight they can carry without exceeding GVWR limits. Payload and Towing Limits Compared The gas ProMaster's payload tops out at 4,750 lbs, with towing capacity reaching 6,910 lbs depending on configuration. Ram lists the EV's max payload at 3,170 lbs. If your business tows trailers or hauls heavy equipment regularly, that payload gap alone often settles the decision in favor of gas. Cargo Configurations and Upfit Options by Powertrain The gas ProMaster comes in three roof heights (66", 77", and 86") and four cargo lengths up to 13 feet. A low-roof extended wheelbase configuration offers 4,430 lbs of payload paired with 304 cu ft of cargo volume, a useful middle-ground setup for businesses balancing space and weight. Both powertrains come in Tradesman®, SLT, and SLT+ trims, so upfitters have flexibility regardless of which engine you choose. Our team can walk through upfit options in person if you stop by to view the new Ram vehicles for sale in Carmel, NY. Operating Costs for Putnam and Westchester County Routes Total cost of ownership is where the EV starts closing the gap, at least for the right kind of route. Fuel and electricity pricing in New York directly affects which powertrain makes more financial sense over time. Fuel and Charging Costs Per Mile According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, New York's regular gas price has recently run around $3.35 per gallon, dipping as low as $2.86 over the past year. New York's average commercial electricity rate sits near 22.4 cents per kWh, with a statewide commercial benchmark of 23.49 cents per kWh reported for February 2026. For businesses running high daily mileage, that per-mile cost difference adds up fast, particularly on routes that stay within the EV's range and can rely on overnight Level 2 charging. Maintenance Savings and Available EV Incentives The ProMaster EV's simpler drivetrain means fewer moving parts and less routine maintenance compared to the gas V6, which still needs oil changes every 10,000 miles. On incentives, it's worth being precise. The federal EV purchase tax credit is no longer available for vehicles placed in service after September 30, 2025. State programs and Section 179 treatment both depend on how the van is configured, so ask our commercial team what currently applies and confirm the tax side with your accountant before you budget. Matching the Right ProMaster to Your Business Route Spec sheets matter, but your actual route determines which van earns its keep. Best for Downtown Carmel Deliveries and Tight-Street Navigation A delivery business running repeated loops through downtown Carmel, with predictable mileage and access to overnight charging, is a strong match for the ProMaster EV. The instant torque helps with frequent starts and stops, and the 164-mile range comfortably covers a full day of local runs without needing a midday charge. Best for Long-Haul and Rural Hudson Valley Routes Gas ProMaster territory looks different: a contractor towing equipment across rural Putnam County, say, or a route that runs out to Poughkeepsie or Danbury, CT on a regular basis. The extended range, higher payload, and towing capacity remove the range anxiety that comes with longer, less predictable driving patterns. Many businesses we work with don't fit neatly into one category; they run a mix of tight local deliveries and occasional long hauls. In those cases, we help fleets configure a mixed gas and EV lineup, matching each van to the specific route it'll run rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all decision. Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ram ProMaster Lineup How far can the 2026 ProMaster EV travel on a single charge? Ram's manufacturer estimate puts the ProMaster EV's range at up to 164 miles combined when loaded at 50% payload, with city range estimated up to 161 miles. That's typically enough for a full day of local delivery routes around Carmel and surrounding towns. Is the gas ProMaster better for towing and long routes? Yes. The gas ProMaster offers up to 6,910 lbs of towing capacity, while Ram hasn't published a towing figure for the 2026 ProMaster EV. For long-distance or towing-heavy work, gas remains the stronger choice. What are the payload differences between gas and EV models? The gas ProMaster's max payload reaches 4,750 lbs, compared to up to 3,170 lbs for the ProMaster EV. That difference matters most for businesses hauling heavier equipment or bulk inventory regularly. Are there fleet incentives for choosing the ProMaster EV? New York's Drive Clean Rebate can offer up to $2,000 toward a qualifying new EV purchase or lease. Note that the federal EV purchase tax credit is no longer available for vehicles placed in service after September 30, 2025, so we'd recommend confirming current state and local programs before budgeting. Talk to Meadowland of Carmel CDJR's Commercial Vehicle Team Warranty Coverage on Both Powertrains Both the gas and electric 2026 Ram ProMaster are backed by Ram's official coverage: the gas model carries a 10-Year/100,000-Mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, while the ProMaster EV includes an 8-Year/100,000-Mile E-Powertrain and Battery Limited Warranty. Get Started Whichever powertrain fits your routes, our commercial vehicle team can help you configure the right ProMaster, or a mixed fleet of both, based on your actual delivery patterns and load requirements. Reach out through our contact form or start a fleet financing application today, and let's find the setup that fits your business.

Choosing between the 2026 Ram 2500 and the Ford F-250 is a big decision for anyone who depends on a truck to earn a living. Contractors hauling equipment, drivers pulling trailers on I-84 and Route 6, crews shuttling gear between sites: they all need a truck that won't quit on them. This 2026 Ram 2500 vs Ford F-250 comparison breaks down what actually matters, torque, towing numbers, cabin tech, ride quality, so you can make a confident call. If you're ready to see what's available now, browse our new Ram lineup at Meadowland of Carmel CDJR. 2026 Ram 2500 vs. Ford F-250: Built for Putnam County's Toughest Jobs The Ram 2500 blends serious capability with a refined driving experience, built for people who need a legitimate workhorse but don't want to sacrifice comfort on long days behind the wheel. The F-250 leans into a rugged, utility-first identity that appeals to traditional heavy-duty buyers, per Ford's 2026 specs. Know that split going in, because it can save you from a costly mismatch down the road. 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel: The Torque Advantage Ram equips the 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel. Ford offers the F-250 with its own 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel, a capable unit in its own right. For Putnam County contractors, landscapers, and fleet operators, the torque gap shows up every time you hook up a trailer and pull out onto the road. To see how this heavy-duty matchup has evolved year-over-year, check out our previous 2025 Ram 2500 vs. Ford F-250 comparison. Horsepower and Torque: Ram 2500 vs. F-250 Spec Ram 2500 (HO Cummins) Ford F-250 (Power Stroke) Engine 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel Horsepower 430 hp 475 hp Torque 1,075 lb-ft (best-in-class) 1,050 lb-ft Transmission 8-speed TorqueFlite HD auto 10-speed TorqShift auto Ram's high-output Cummins configuration produces best-in-class torque, per Ram's 2026 specs, which is what lets you pull confidently right from a standstill. The F-250's Power Stroke carries a horsepower edge, appealing to buyers who prioritize acceleration and overall engine output. If you haul heavy loads often and want steady pulling power across a wide RPM range, the Cummins has a long track record behind it. Real-World Performance on I-84 and Route 6 Local roads like I-84 through Brewster and Route 6 near Carmel aren't the smoothest stretches of asphalt in New York, and they ask real questions of heavy-duty trucks under load. Ram 2500 owners frequently report a composed, smooth ride even when loaded, thanks in part to the available rear air suspension that adjusts to weight and road conditions. The F-250 performs reliably in towing scenarios on these same roads, though its suspension tuning can feel noticeably stiffer on long drives. Towing and Payload Capacity Compared Towing and payload ratings define the outer limits of what each truck can safely do, and getting that math wrong on a job site or highway can be dangerous. Both trucks are impressively capable, but their strengths lean in slightly different directions. Spec Ram 2500 Ford F-250 Max conventional towing ~20,000 lbs (6.7L Cummins H.O. diesel) ~22,000 lbs (6.7L Power Stroke diesel) Max fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing ~20,000 lbs (diesel) ~23,000 lbs gooseneck (6.7L H.O. diesel) Max gas payload ~4,420 lbs (6.4L HEMI V8) ~4,246 lbs (7.3L gas V8) Max diesel payload ~3,140 lbs (6.7L Cummins) ~4,048 lbs (6.7L Power Stroke) The Ram 2500 makes its strongest case in the bed, posting the higher maximum gas payload of the two, which gives it a real edge for contractors and crews who spend more time loading gear than pulling a trailer. Its 6.7L Cummins also earns a reputation for smooth, confident real-world towing that owners consistently praise on long hauls. The F-250 answers with higher max conventional and gooseneck ceilings on paper, per Ford's published data, making it worth a look for owners whose heaviest loads ride on a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch, though those figures are reached only in specific configurations. For most buyers, the Ram 2500 hits the sweet spot: standout payload, refined towing manners, and the kind of everyday livability that matters once the spec sheet is behind you. The right pick still comes down to which number matters most for your work, and which engine you choose changes the answer. All figures are maximums reached only in specific cab, bed, drivetrain, and axle configurations, and no single truck hits every max at once, so confirm exact build specs with our team before you commit. Cabin Technology and Comfort for Long Workdays For many owners, a heavy-duty truck doubles as an office, the place where they spend eight to ten hours a day. Cabin quality has become a real differentiator in the segment, and the 2026 Ram 2500 takes a clear lead here. Feature Ram 2500 Ford F-250 Standard touchscreen 12-inch Uconnect 5 8-inch SYNC 4 Available touchscreen 14.5-inch Larger SYNC 4 displays Passenger interactive screen Available Not offered 360-degree camera Available Available Smartphone connectivity Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Ram's Uconnect 5 system feels modern and responsive, which matters when you're managing routes or monitoring trailer performance data. Step into a Ram 2500 Laramie or Limited trim and the cabin feels closer to a luxury SUV than a traditional work truck, with upscale materials and spacious seating. Ford's SYNC 4 is user-friendly and functional, and the F-250 Lariat and Platinum trims are comfortable and well-equipped, but Ford leans toward durable materials that prioritize function over refinement. If you're logging long hours in the cab, the Ram's interior tends to hold up better as a place to actually live in. If heavy-duty towing isn't mandatory and you prefer everyday light-duty versatility, explore our 2026 Ram 1500 interior guide. Handling Heavy Trailers and Job Site Demands Raw numbers tell part of the story, but the way a truck handles a loaded trailer on a windy highway or navigates a muddy job site tells the rest. The Ram 2500's available rear air suspension automatically adjusts to load weight, so the truck stays level and rides smooth under heavy cargo, cutting down on fatigue over a long haul. The F-250's solid rear axle and leaf spring setup is proven and durable, holding steady over rough terrain when the bed or trailer is loaded up. Ram's available Trailer Reverse Steering Control is one of the most practically useful towing technologies in the segment. It lets you back a trailer by simply turning a knob, a genuine quality-of-life improvement for anyone maneuvering trailers into tight spaces. Ford counters with Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which works on a similar principle and is well-regarded by F-250 owners. Both systems work well, but Ram's version tends to feel more intuitive day to day. Reliability, Warranty, and Total Cost of Ownership Long-term dependability matters enormously in the heavy-duty segment. These trucks take a beating, and repair downtime can translate directly into lost revenue for contractors. Contractors needing dedicated fleet trucks for heavy Hudson Valley jobs can also browse our specialized new commercial inventory. Both the Cummins and Power Stroke diesels are known for reliability, and for 2026 Ram backs the 2500 with a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, covering the Cummins diesel along with the transmission and driveline. That is double the duration of the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage typical on competing full-size trucks, and it is a meaningful edge for original owners who plan to keep their truck for the long haul. Coverage applies to the first registered owner and excludes fleet purchases, so fleet buyers should confirm the terms that apply to their situation. Total cost of ownership comes down to more than the sticker price. Getting parts fast, finding a shop that knows the truck, and having service nearby all factor into what a truck really costs to keep on the road. For buyers near Carmel and Putnam County, having a trusted dealership with factory-trained technicians nearby makes a real difference, and strong resale demand for Ram heavy-duty trucks in this region adds another point in the 2500's favor. Find Heavy-Duty Ram Trucks Near Carmel If you're searching for heavy-duty Ram trucks near Carmel, Meadowland of Carmel CDJR puts the full 2500 lineup within easy reach for buyers in Carmel, Brewster, Poughkeepsie, and Danbury, CT. We carry a wide selection of new, used, and certified pre-owned Ram trucks, and because we share inventory across the Volz Auto Group network, CPO Ram availability is often stronger than a single-store lot can offer. Working with our sales team means getting access to staff who understand the demands Putnam County buyers place on their trucks. Whether you're evaluating the Tradesman for fleet use, the Laramie for daily driving, or the Limited for a more premium experience, our team can walk you through configurations that match your actual workload. Check out the new Ram 2500 for sale in Carmel to see current stock. Explore Work Trucks and Value Your Trade-In at Meadowland of Carmel CDJR Trade In and Finance With Confidence Moving into a new Ram 2500 is easier when you can put your current vehicle to work in the deal. We offer trade-in valuation so you know exactly what your current truck is worth before you sign anything, plus competitive financing with flexible payment plans built to fit a range of budgets. Fleet operators and businesses managing multiple vehicles can work directly with our team for a straightforward path to equipping their crew. Contact Meadowland of Carmel CDJR Call 845-704-4245 during sales hours, Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Friday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, or reach the service department at 845-842-7355. You can also connect through our contact page. When the 2026 Ram 2500 vs Ford F-250 decision comes down to the wire, having a local team in your corner makes all the difference.