LA 2007: Chrysler shows off their Two-Mode SUVs, falls short of GM
At the LA Auto Show today, Chrysler showed their upcoming Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrids for the first time at an auto show although it's not the first time we've seen them. We actually got to drive a prototype last June at the Chrysler Proving Ground. Chrysler is still nearly a year away from production of their first hybrids and obviously the mileage numbers are not finalized yet. But when Executive VP for product development Frank Klegon made the announcement, he said the Chrysler SUVs would get a forty percent improvement in city mileage and twenty five percent overall. Unfortunately for Chrysler, this falls short of what GM has achieved with the same two-mode hybrid system in the Tahoe/Yukon. Those vehicles managed a fifty percent bump in town and thirty plus percent overall. Hopefully between now and launch, Chrysler will manage to eek a little more.
[Source: Chrysler]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Hank 11:20AM (11/15/2007)
Why are both companies only offering the system with large V-8s? Why not offer the same with a good V-6 as well. This would get people who need an SUV but don't need to pull 8,000lbs of trailer behind them (even most people with boats, jet-skis, ATVs, etc. don't ever approach the need of an 8,000lb rating). It would immediately up the mpg/emissions gain of the hybrid system, and still offer the power most need/want.
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MemphisNET 12:25PM (11/16/2007)
How come everything else I've read on the GM vehicles states the same 40% and 25% - where did this 50% and 30% come from? I've been stuck in the airport for the last 30hours.... maybe I've missed something lol.
Also, EPA numbers are more 'realistic' now - so achiving what's on the sticker and what the car gets should be similar. Hell, my Neon gets better mileage than the stated sticker if I just go the speed limit (7litres/100km city, 5.9litres/100km)
Part of it may be the strain on a V6 motor / reliability. But really, when you're getting the same mileage of a Camery, it's nice to have the option of 4 wheelin' and towing etc while not killing yourself (as bad) at the pumps.
Pure economy isn't always the answer.
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