Dodge Hybrid manager answers reader questions, without saying much
As Chrysler gets ready to launch their first hybrids this fall in the shape of the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen two-modes, Hybrid manager Abdullah Bazzi has posted answers to some reader questions over on the Dodge blog. While none of the questions are particularly deep or earth shattering, Bazzi does reiterate that a hybrid version of the Ram pickup is coming in 2010. Although at least one reader would like to see a hybrid version of the new Dodge Challenger, Bazzi says that would depend on making a business case for it. The likelihood of that happening is pretty slim. Sales projections for the Challenger are only about 40,000 units a year and it remains to be seen how sales will hold up after the demand for the first year's run is satisfied. At the moment all of Chrysler's future product plans are in flux as the new bosses revamp the lineup. Beyond the Durango/Aspen/Ram hybrids and the diesel Grand Cherokee, nothing is certain. Head over to the Dodge blog to read the rest of Bazzi's responses.
[Source: Red Letter Dodge]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Throwback 1:25PM (4/10/2008)
I am a Mopar fan from way back, but alas they build nothing that interests me now. Not even the new Challenger (although good looking)I owned an original, so no need to go back in time. Build the Zeo however and I will buy.
Reply
Whopper 2:43PM (4/10/2008)
I too am an old Mopar fan, Throwback. However, Cerberus bit off way more than they can chew and it is patently obvious. Not since Ron Zarrella nearly destroyed GM single handedly has a worse executive been placed in charge of an auto manufacturer until Bob Nardelli. Look for a Korean or Chinese corporation to take Chrysler off Cerberus' hands, at a loss, in a couple of years.
Reply
phil easler 3:23PM (4/10/2008)
I agree. Its only a matter of time before Chrysler sells the Jeep and minivan models and stops manufacturing. Too bad.
Reply
Throwback 3:35PM (4/10/2008)
I think only the Jeep brand will survive. My guess, they will be owned by Mahindra, how ironic since Mahindra used to make Jeeps under license.
Reply
Kevin Nugent 5:59PM (4/11/2008)
Well he's trying
Reply
66coronet 8:11AM (4/11/2008)
I think everything is hinged on the new pheonix V-6 MDS motors and the ability to tie them in with the two types of hybrids they plan to offer. One hybrid is the 2 mode hybrid that is part of the tranny and the other is just a engine shut down hybrid. So a standard starter will not start the motor, but an electric motor will. So there is enough battery power to move the car and start the motor at the same time, I think.
I'm disappointed that the Grand Cherokee will be the only diesel besides the rams. Europe just gets the better diesels, do to US regulations. Plus why is diesel so expensive, other than removing all the sulfer to 15ppm.
Reply
66coronet 8:17AM (4/11/2008)
OOps, I forgot about the OM651 MB 2.2Lcrd or in latest new release MB2.1Lcrd. This is to be used in the minivans for chrysler & Dodge. Plus most likely to replace all VM2.8L crd motors.
If only Chrysler can co-produce this motor to be used through out their lineup.
http://www.whnet.com/4x4/om651.html
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/02/05/chrysler-considering-diesel-minivans-for-2010/
Reply
Whopper 9:04AM (4/11/2008)
Late yesterday Automotive News reported that one of Cerberus' underwriters sold off hundreds of millions of dollars worth of Chrysler LLC loans at $0.61 on the dollar.
Reply