AEV, or American Expedition Vehicles, is a very big name in the overlanding/expedition world. They’re known for creating cool and unique vehicles and then offering those vehicles as upgrade packages for their customers to enjoy. Back in 2017, they showed off their Ram 1500 Recruit, which was an off-road oriented upgrade package. Fast forward to 2018 and they now offer the Ram 1500 Rebel Recruit, a $15,000 upgrade package designed for overlanding purposes, and it features everything from a suspension lift to off-road bumpers, and the looks to go along with it.

Starting from the bottom, the Rebel Recruit uses a bolt-on three-inch suspension lift kit that relies on all the OEM geometry and mounting points. Changing the geometry may result in better off-road performance, but it vastly increases cost and introduces a whole host of other problems, so sticking with the OEM geometry is a viable option. Thanks to those additional three inches, the Rebel Recruit can fit radical 37-inch mud terrain tires.

With optional features such as upgraded wheels, a bed-mounted fridge/freezer, Euro-style lighting, tonneau covers and more, plus off-road bumpers and parts, the Rebel Recruit is a touch on the heavy side. This isn’t a major issue for the most part, but with stock-sized brakes, don’t expect it to stop on a dime or stop hard repeatedly. Of course, this issue can easily be fixed with a set of aftermarket brakes. The brakes could also be addressed in the 2019 AEV Recruit if they continue the model.