AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Chrysler fetes its most eco-friendly dealers, with bamboo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/chrysler-fetes-its-most-eco-friendly-dealers-with-bamboo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/chrysler-fetes-its-most-eco-friendly-dealers-with-bamboo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/chrysler-fetes-its-most-eco-friendly-dealers-with-bamboo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The company may be best known for tire-melting Hemi engines, but at least some of its dealerships are showing some love for the environment.

Chrysler, which launched a program last year to commemorate its most eco-friendly dealers, has named its first batch of 30 winners as part of its Dealer ECO (that stands for Environmentally Conscious Operations) Program.

The U.S. automaker awarded five dealers in Michigan as well as three dealerships each in New York and California among the 30. One Arkansas dealership was rewarded for having a 2,000-square-foot solar-panel system on its roof (pictured), while another, in Michigan, was singled out for using used motor oil to heat the facility.

In all, the dealers were noted for their energy efficiency, oil containment, waste recycling and community involvement. And each of the dealers received a bamboo plaque commemorating their achievements.

Continue reading Chrysler fetes its most eco-friendly dealers, with bamboo

Chrysler fetes its most eco-friendly dealers, with bamboo originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 11 May 2012 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiachryslerecologyenvironmentmichigannew yorkFri, 11 May 2012 10:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20234980/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20234980/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/11/chrysler-fetes-its-most-eco-friendly-dealers-with-bamboo/20234980/article-detail.xml 20234980 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/chrysler_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/chrysler.jpg <![CDATA[U.S., German automakers will demo fast-charging system at EVS26]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/04/u-s-german-automakers-will-demo-fast-charging-system-at-evs26/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/04/u-s-german-automakers-will-demo-fast-charging-system-at-evs26/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/04/u-s-german-automakers-will-demo-fast-charging-system-at-evs26/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



BMW, Ford, General Motors and Volkswagen are among the eight U.S. and German automakers that will demonstrate a single-port fast-charging system for electric vehicles at the Electric Vehicle Symposium 26 (EV26) in Los Angeles starting next week.

Audi, Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler and Porsche will also show off the so-called DC-fast system, which will be able to recharge most battery-electric vehicles in as little as 15 minutes.

With a combination AC and DC charging capabilities, the DC-fast system is supposed to start sales by the end of the year and will enable U.S. and German plug-ins to be able to be recharged at most public charging stations while also accommodating high-powered fast-charging stations. The International Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has officially tapped the system as the standard for fast-charging.

Electric-vehicle proponents consider the establishment of a fast-charging standard to be an important key to plug-in vehicle adoption because the availability of publicly accessible fast chargers that can recharge a vehicle in minutes instead of hours makes range anxiety a moot point. Pike Research said last year that annual revenue generated by makers of electric-vehicle charging equipment will increase more than tenfold between 2011 and 2017 to about $4.3 billion.

Still, the fast-charging issue is far from settled because a separate fast-charging standard - CHAdeMO - has been proposed by the Japanese automotive industry. Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries are all partners in the CHAdeMO Association.

Continue reading U.S., German automakers will demo fast-charging system at EVS26

U.S., German automakers will demo fast-charging system at EVS26 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 04 May 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibmwchademocharging stationschryslerdaimlerdc-fastelectric vehiclefordgmporschevolkswagenFri, 04 May 2012 09:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20230451/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20230451/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/04/u-s-german-automakers-will-demo-fast-charging-system-at-evs26/20230451/article-detail.xml 20230451 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/dccombined_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/dccombined.jpg <![CDATA[Will Detroit Three Survive and Thrive?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/will-detroit-three-survive-and-thrive/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/will-detroit-three-survive-and-thrive/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/will-detroit-three-survive-and-thrive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

All are looking good for now... but it depends



As you probably know, Chrysler has reported its best quarterly profits in 13 years, has just introduced a very nice new Dodge Dart compact sedan and continues to gain sales and market share. GM has also been highly profitable with a string of solid product hits, though it has not gained share working with just half of its former eight U.S. brands.

As you also know, both of these iconic American car companies were upside down four years ago and likely would have been dissolved - along with millions of good U.S. jobs - had both the Bush and Obama administrations not decided to invest taxpayer money in saving them.

Now, with election season heating up, we'll be hearing much from both sides on the GM and Chrysler "bailouts." Democrats will rightly claim credit (though it began under Bush) for saving the U.S. auto industry and millions of jobs. Republicans will correctly counter that they did it all wrong (stiffing private investors, destroying thousands of dealer businesses for no good reason and handing Chrysler to Italy's Fiat) and for the wrong reason (to save the UAW).

"Let them fail," conservatives crowed then, and still. "That's how capitalism works."

"Let them fail," conservatives crowed then, and still. "That's how capitalism works." But there was no private capital in late 2008 for business loans or bankruptcies, so federal support was the last resort. Ford had sufficient capital to weather the crisis only because it had run out of money two years earlier, when it still could (and did) mortgage itself for working capital.

There has been no end to political rhetoric about creating new jobs, but little knowledgeable discussion around saving those millions of auto (and industry-dependent) jobs that we already had. What very few outside the industry - including financial gurus and media pundits - understand is how this industry is a huge, fragile, interdependent house of cards.

Continue reading Will Detroit Three Survive and Thrive?

Will Detroit Three Survive and Thrive? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutbankruptcybig threechryslerdetroit threefordgary witzenburggmMon, 30 Apr 2012 12:14:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20226847/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20226847/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/30/will-detroit-three-survive-and-thrive/20226847/article-detail.xml 20226847 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/first-aid-kit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/first-aid-kit.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler delivers first plug-in minivans in $26m demonstration project]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/chrysler-delivers-first-plug-in-minivans-in-26m-demonstration-p/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/chrysler-delivers-first-plug-in-minivans-in-26m-demonstration-p/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/chrysler-delivers-first-plug-in-minivans-in-26m-demonstration-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



OK, so these really may be the world's coolest minivans.

Chrysler has deployed four plug-in hybrid-electric Town & Country minivans to the city of Auburn Hills, MI as part of a $26-million demonstration project. Chrylser says it plans for each minivan to rack up 16,800 miles during the two-year program. In all, Chrysler will make 25 minivan plug-ins and spend $15.8 million on the project, with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) chipping in another $10 million. No word on if or when the plug-in minivans will be sold to the public.

Last year, Chrysler started deploying the first of 140 Ram plug-in hybrid-electric pickup trucks as a way for the automaker and the U.S. government to explore more fuel-efficient alternatives for gas-guzzling trucks. Chrysler and the DOE split the $97 million bill on that project as well.

Continue reading Chrysler delivers first plug-in minivans in $26m demonstration project

Chrysler delivers first plug-in minivans in $26m demonstration project originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auburn hillschryslerchrysler town countrydemonstration projecthybrid minivanmichiganminivanplug-in hybridplug-in hybrid minivantown countryWed, 18 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20218121/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20218121/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/18/chrysler-delivers-first-plug-in-minivans-in-26m-demonstration-p/20218121/article-detail.xml 20218121 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/towncountry_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/towncountry.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-unveiled-with-eight-speed-auto-start-stop-air-su/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-unveiled-with-eight-speed-auto-start-stop-air-su/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-unveiled-with-eight-speed-auto-start-stop-air-su/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 will receive a significant refresh for the 2013 model year, and the majority of the changes are indeed more than skin-deep. That's because the 2013 Ram will hit the showroom floor with a host of powertrain upgrades, including features that have never been offered on American pickup trucks until now.

Chrysler promises that the new 3.6 will improve fuel efficiency by "at least 20 percent."

Many of the Ram's new technologies speak to its fuel-saving nature, including an eight-speed automatic transmission for both six- and eight-cylinder models, stop-start, improved aerodynamics, electric power steering, grille shutters and an auto-adjusting air suspension. The air suspension is essentially a version of the setup used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee and features an Aero Mode, lowering the ride height by 1.2 inches to help cut through the wind more efficiently. Ram will also offer the Chrysler Group's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 as the base powerplant, delivering 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. For reference, Ford rates the 2012 F-150 pickup's naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 at 302 hp and 278 lb-ft.

Chrysler promises that the new 3.6 will improve fuel efficiency by "at least 20 percent" compared to the old 3.7-liter unit. Another 20 percent added to 20 miles per gallon on the highway and 14 mpg in the city equates to a class-leading 24 mpg highway and 17 mpg city.

Of course, V8 power is available, courtesy of Chrysler's tried-and-true 5.7-liter Hemi, which now delivers 395 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. That's five more horsepower compared to the 2012 model, and that improvement comes courtesy of the new electronic power steering system. The most impressive part is that the Hemi-equipped model will also boast 20 percent better fuel economy, thanks largely to the fact that the eight-speed automatic is also fitted to this eight-pot mill. Chrysler will announce official fuel economy numbers closer to the Ram's on-sale date.

2013 Ram aerodynamics
2013 Ram grille shutters 2013 Ram wheel

The Ram 1500 can achieve these substantial efficiency gains because of the aforementioned fuel-sipping technologies, but engineers have also cut considerable weight. The V6 powertrain is an amazing 76 pounds lighter than the outgoing 3.7-liter, and the TorqueFlite eight-speed and Hemi combine for a 30-pound reduction in the 5.7-liter model. Other weight savings come from an aluminum hood (26 pounds), chassis with more high-strength steel (up to 30 pounds), new floor cross-members in the bed (seven pounds), new front bumper (four pounds) and the electronic steering system (four pounds).

Additional improvements include upgraded exterior styling, a richer-looking cabin and a stiffer chassis that promises decreased noise, vibration and harshness. The Ram will also feature improved available infotainment tech, including an 8.4-inch navigation screen and a configurable seven-inch thin-film transistor screen that is standard on Sport, Laramie and Laramie Longhorn models.

Scroll down to read over the Chrysler press release, which includes a ton more information. You can also watch a few videos that highlight some of the new features.

Continue reading 2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos]

2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 07:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ram 1500new yorknew york 2012new york auto showramram 1500Thu, 05 Apr 2012 07:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20209148/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20209148/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-unveiled-with-eight-speed-auto-start-stop-air-su/20209148/article-detail.xml 20209148 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ram-1500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ram-1500.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler Ram 2500 CNG starts deliveries in July]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/chrysler-ram-2500-cng-starts-deliveries-in-july/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/chrysler-ram-2500-cng-starts-deliveries-in-july/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/chrysler-ram-2500-cng-starts-deliveries-in-july/#commentsFiled under: ,



Chrysler will build the first U.S. production compressed natural gas-powered pickup truck when it starts deliveries of its Ram 2500 CNG this summer, as the U.S. automaker looks to offer a cheaper refueling cost for its utility vehicles.

Chrysler, which has started taking reservations for the truck, said the model will include an 18.2-gallon-equivalent CNG tank that will provide 255 miles of driving range as well as an eight-gallon gas tank that will provide another 112 miles. Pricing for the Ram 2500 CNG, which uses a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine, starts at $47,500.

The company says it's offering fleet buyers a cheaper refueling alternative because burning CNG is about a third cheaper than regular gas. AAA says regular gas prices, which jumped about 27 percent last year, average about $3.75 a gallon, up about 40 cents since the beginning of the year. Chrysler says there are about 1,500 CNG refueling stations across the U.S. - about half of which are publicly accessible - while the U.S. Department of Energy puts that number closer to 1,000.

CNG proponents have pitched natural gas as a preferable refueling option to gasoline because, as opposed to petroleum-dependent gasoline, most CNG is produced in North America. Meanwhile, Chrysler's Italy-based parent Fiat has built almost a half-million CNG-powered vehicles in Europe during the past five years and has more than an 80 percent CNG market share there.

Earlier this week, General Motors unveiled two bi-fuel CNG- and gas-powered trucks. The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2013 GMC Sierra 2500 HD, which GM showed off at the 2012 Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, will be available by the end of the year.

Overall, green-technology research firm Pike Research forecast last year that worldwide annual CNG vehicle sales would jump 68 percent to 3.2 million in 2016 from 1.9 million in 2010. In the U.S., CNG vehicle sales would grow by more than 25 percent a year and would reach almost 33,000 units in 2016.

Continue reading Chrysler Ram 2500 CNG starts deliveries in July

Chrysler Ram 2500 CNG starts deliveries in July originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslercngcompressed natural gasnatural gaspickuppickup truckramram 2500ram 2500 cngtruckFri, 09 Mar 2012 16:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188317/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188317/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/09/chrysler-ram-2500-cng-starts-deliveries-in-july/20188317/article-detail.xml 20188317 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ramcng_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ramcng.jpg <![CDATA[Future Fuel Economy Mandates, Part III: Chrysler]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/future-fuel-economy-mandates-part-iii-chrysler/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/future-fuel-economy-mandates-part-iii-chrysler/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/future-fuel-economy-mandates-part-iii-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fiat 500 C

As regular readers know, I set out this year to interview as many Detroit automaker executives as I could at the Detroit and Chicago auto shows to get their takes on meeting future fuel economy standards. And these reports are generating a lot of comments.

For example, "Nick" responded to my Ford interviews: "I don't get how 'electrifying global platforms' is any good. They're essentially taking cars that were 100% engineered with ICE in mind, and 'adapting' them into EVs. Not an optimal solution, to say the least. You end up with a car that looks exactly like its ICE counterpart, costs $15k more, is heavy and has poor range. Tesla is a billion miles ahead of these clowns."

Nick is right that electrified conventional vehicles will be somewhat heavier and less efficient than dedicated-platform cars, but Ford has chosen the former path for its early EVs because the latter is hugely expensive. Ford (and virtually all others) believe that potential EV buyers will be willing to sacrifice some range for much more affordable prices.

The idea that designing, developing and building unique, dedicated-platform EVs instead of electrifying conventional ones would result in lower costs is completely wrong. And I'm wondering what credentials justify Nick's calling Ford's incredibly hard-working, capable and dedicated engineers "clowns." And why he thinks, "Tesla is a billion miles ahead" of them. Really? How many dedicated-platform EVs has Tesla sold?

That said, let's start our Chrysler CAFE interviews at the very top with Chrysler (and parent company Fiat) CEO Sergio Marchionne. "If you ask GM and Ford," he said, "we all have the same types of technology, and we all carry the same burden in terms of the sizes of vehicles we are manufacturing. The 50-plus miles per gallon by 2025 cannot be achieved by just redesigning established combustion technologies. We know that some type of hybrid solution needs to be implemented, and if we don't make [sufficient] changes in combustion engines, hybrids will become the mainstay in the United States. At that point, economies of scale will drive down cost. They will never be equivalent, but they will come down. But if you think we're going to get there without passing on additional costs to the consumer, I've got news for you: we will have to.

Continue reading Future Fuel Economy Mandates, Part III: Chrysler

Future Fuel Economy Mandates, Part III: Chrysler originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgedodge mpgfiatfiat 500fiat 500 evmpgsergio marchionnesrtFri, 24 Feb 2012 16:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20179146/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20179146/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/24/future-fuel-economy-mandates-part-iii-chrysler/20179146/article-detail.xml 20179146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat-500-c-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat-500-c-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler withdraws government loan request, calls DOE terms too restrictive]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/chryser-withdraws-government-loan-request-calls-doe-terms-too-r/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/chryser-withdraws-government-loan-request-calls-doe-terms-too-r/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/chryser-withdraws-government-loan-request-calls-doe-terms-too-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chrysler logo

If you have a hate on for automakers that take government money then it may be time to upwardly revise your feelings towards Chrysler. The pentastar brand had originally sought up to $7 billion from the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) loan program, though since its original request in 2007, it had reduced that amount downward to a more reasonable $3.5 billion. Now, it has withdrawn its application completely.

Apparently, the terms sought by the DOE were too restrictive for Chrysler's needs - something PHEV-maker Fisker is all too familiar with. While we don't think the decision will impact the launch of the company's only announced battery powered vehicle, the Fiat 500 EV, big kahuna Sergio Marchionne is clearly unimpressed with the whole process. Says the Chrysler-Fiat CEO, comparing its position to its Detroit-based competitors,

One blocked DoE funding and the other one was using equity capital, which is probably even a better substitute than DoE funding at a lower rate. So I'm the only guy who is sitting over here that pays back everything with interest and I am sitting over there and I don't want to be favored, I just don't want to be mistreated.

U.S. Representative John Dingell (D-MI) issued a statement that he's disappointed in the situation, saying he, "regret[s] that DoE and Chrysler were not able to come to an agreement that clearly would have benefited American workers and manufacturers." Read the whole thing after the jump.

Continue reading Chrysler withdraws government loan request, calls DOE terms too restrictive

Chrysler withdraws government loan request, calls DOE terms too restrictive originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturingatvmpavtmchryslergovernment assistancegovernment bailoutgovernment loanSergio MarchionneThu, 16 Feb 2012 18:16:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20173711/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20173711/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/16/chryser-withdraws-government-loan-request-calls-doe-terms-too-r/20173711/article-detail.xml 20173711 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chrysler-logo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chrysler-logo-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat will start building battery-electric 500 this year, CEO tweets]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/fiat-will-start-building-battery-electric-500-this-year-ceo-twe/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/fiat-will-start-building-battery-electric-500-this-year-ceo-twe/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/fiat-will-start-building-battery-electric-500-this-year-ceo-twe/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Fiat will start building a battery-electric version of its 500 compact this year, marking the Italian automaker's entrance into the EV production market. So said Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne in an official Chrysler tweet recently that said:

Marchionne: at Chrysler we are working on an electric version of the Fiat 500 that we'll begin manufacturing later this year.

As you can read, Marchionne didn't say how many EVs would be produced or how much it would cost, though the 500 EV will likely have about 100 horsepower as well as about a 90-mile single-charge range, the website said. Marchionne once estimated that Fiat would lose about $10,000 on each 500 EV sold. Fiat hasn't put out an official statement on the model.

Fiat unveiled its 500 Elettra battery-electric concept at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, though has been relatively quiet since. A privately converted 500 EV was notably owned by now-deceased Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Earlier this month, Corrado Clini, a member of Italy's Ministry of the Environment, said Fiat missed an opportunity to gain from growing global demand for electric-drive vehicles by choosing to work on more fuel-efficient internal combustion engines instead of hybrids and electric powertrains, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Fiat will start building battery-electric 500 this year, CEO tweets originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500electric vehicleevfiatfiat 500fiat 500 EVsergio marchionneFri, 10 Feb 2012 17:51:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167564/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167564/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/fiat-will-start-building-battery-electric-500-this-year-ceo-twe/20167564/article-detail.xml 20167564 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat500-1328736960_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat500-1328736960.jpg <![CDATA[Why the 2013 Dodge Dart won't really get 40 mpg combined]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Dodge Dart

Chrysler dropped a bombshell today, insinuating that its forthcoming 2013 Dodge Dart will have a combined fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon. Some media outlets have regurgitated this number without question. But it just isn't true, as that 40-mpg fuel economy number is unadjusted and will most certainly be lower once it gets printed on window stickers.

To better understand the way fuel economy numbers get calculated, we'll point you to this page on the Environmental Protection Agency's website. The short version is that cars are tested by the EPA to determine fuel economy for Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE), then adjusted for real world conditions before they are published, both on the EPA website and on Monroneys, or window stickers. City numbers are dropped by 10 percent, while highway numbers get a 22-percent reduction. Some rough estimating says that the Dart will probably be rated at about 34-mpg combined once the final adjustments are made. Still a good score, for sure, but far from 40.

So why did Chrysler even mention 40? In its big announcement today that Fiat had increased its ownership stake, the explanation is that Chrysler has met one of the conditions of the bankruptcy agreement, that it produce a 40-mpg vehicle for CAFE. That vehicle is the Dart.

Could Chrysler have done a better job of explaining what the fuel economy number really means? Sure, but then we wouldn't have been able to write this post.

Continue reading Why the 2013 Dodge Dart won't really get 40 mpg combined

Why the 2013 Dodge Dart won't really get 40 mpg combined originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 dodge dartcafedartdodgeenvironmental protection agencyepafuel economyThu, 05 Jan 2012 13:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20141137/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20141137/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/20141137/article-detail.xml 20141137 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-dodge-dart-teaser-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-dodge-dart-teaser-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit utility gets plug-in hybrid Ram 1500s for test fleet]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/detroit-utility-gets-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-for-test-fleet/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/detroit-utility-gets-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-for-test-fleet/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/detroit-utility-gets-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-for-test-fleet/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ram 1500 phev

Talk to anyone who studies the U.S. truck market, and you'll hear a prevailing message that customers care about strong performance figures - not high-mpg ratings or other efficiency measures - when they buy a truck. For the most part, trucks are still for people who need to get stuff done, and this stuff need to get done no matter where gas prices are. As Ram CEO Fred Diaz once said, "Truckers don't want to buy hybrids."

Still, there's a good case to be made that fuel-efficient trucks will be more and more important as gas prices continue to climb in the future, and so it makes sense that Chrysler is still testing its Ram 1500 plug-in hybrid pick-up truck. This time, Chrysler is giving ten PHEV Ram 1500 pickups to Detroit-area utility DTE Energy as part of a project with the U.S. Department of Energy. The trucks will be used for three years, gaining "real world city miles" as they "evaluate city drive cycles, charging performance, fuel economy and real-world performance." The trucks use a liquid-cooled 12.9-kWh lithium ion battery pack from Electrovaya and a 6.6 kW on-board charger for the plug-in side combined with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine and a two-mode hybrid transmission.

Chrysler is also testing more trucks in other areas, for a total of 140 nationwide. Over 100 are already deployed but there are no plans to put the PHEV into production. So, basically, even with the tests, it looks like the truck market isn't going to get a plug-in Chrysler product any time soon. There is a hint that a more consumer-friendly Pentastar PHEV may be coming, though, as Chrysler is developing a fleet of 25 Town & Country PHEV minivans.

Continue reading Detroit utility gets plug-in hybrid Ram 1500s for test fleet

Detroit utility gets plug-in hybrid Ram 1500s for test fleet originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclehybrid pick-uphybrid truckplug-in hybridramram 1500 phevram 1500 plug-in hybridFri, 16 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20129122/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20129122/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/16/detroit-utility-gets-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-for-test-fleet/20129122/article-detail.xml 20129122 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/ram-1200-phev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/ram-1200-phev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Refinement concerns have fuel-saving dual-clutch on hold at Chrysler]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/refinement-concerns-have-fuel-saving-dual-clutch-on-hold-at-chry/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/refinement-concerns-have-fuel-saving-dual-clutch-on-hold-at-chry/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/refinement-concerns-have-fuel-saving-dual-clutch-on-hold-at-chry/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chrysler dual-clutch transmission
Chrysler has delayed plans for a dual-clutch gearbox in the United States, according to The Car Connection. The high-tech gearbox was slated to be introduced with the 2012 Dodge Avenger and Chrysler 200, but refinement issues have reportedly put that introduction on hold. At present, the best automatic offered with the front-wheel-drive sedans is a conventional six-speed automatic.

While both gearboxes allow the engine access to various ratios, a dual-clutch box can generally be counted on for increased fuel efficiency, sometimes even surpassing manually operated units.

Fiat and Chrysler head Sergio Marchionne has said that any new product released by the reborn Detroit-based automaker has to be perfect before being offered to the public, and the automaker was concerned that Americans wouldn't like the feel of a dual-clutch gearbox. Europeans have had access to dual clutches in Chrysler products mated to diesel engines for several years.

The Car Connection highlights the latest Ford Focus as an example of a dual-clutch gearbox that feels unnatural to drivers who are used to a conventional automatic transmission, though the unit is functioning as designed. Consumer Reports has cited gearbox complaints from Focus and Fiesta owners as a reason Ford's scores have dropped on its pages in the last year.

After being further refined to suit American tastes, it's possible the new cog-swapper may be introduced in Chrysler's upcoming small car (possibly known as the Dodge Hornet) instead of first seeing duty in its range of mid-sizers.

Refinement concerns have fuel-saving dual-clutch on hold at Chrysler originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler dual clutchchrysler transmissiondodgedual clutchdual-clutch transmissionhornetThu, 10 Nov 2011 07:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20102701/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20102701/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/10/refinement-concerns-have-fuel-saving-dual-clutch-on-hold-at-chry/20102701/article-detail.xml 20102701 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/chrysler-dual-clutch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/chrysler-dual-clutch.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler CEO: Guess we'll build more hybrids after all]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/chrysler-ceo-guess-well-build-more-hybrids-after-all/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/chrysler-ceo-guess-well-build-more-hybrids-after-all/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/chrysler-ceo-guess-well-build-more-hybrids-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Chrysler-Fiat chief executive officer Sergio Marchionne has never seemed too excited when speaking of electrified vehicles. Sometimes, people don't change; they're dragged kicking and screaming into the new reality.

CEO Marchionne recently told Automotive News that Chrysler is left with no choice but to build more hybrid vehicles in the future. This, according to Marchionne, will be necessary for Chrysler to comply with the 54.5 mpg fuel economy standards proposed for 2025.

Right now, Chrysler has a single conventional hybrid in the works: a gas-electric version of the 300 due in 2013. That's not enough, as even Marchionne, a hybrid skeptic, admits. He says, in a passive, non-enthusiastic way, that more gas-electric Chrysler and Dodge vehicles will show up sometime in the future: "I have no other way of getting to 2025 [CAFE] numbers than by going to hybrids."

Chrysler CEO: Guess we'll build more hybrids after all originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cafechryslerchrysler 300chrysler hybriddodgedodge hybridfiathybridhybrid vehiclesmpgsergio marchionneWed, 19 Oct 2011 14:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20083531/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20083531/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/19/chrysler-ceo-guess-well-build-more-hybrids-after-all/20083531/article-detail.xml 20083531 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-chrysler-300-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-chrysler-300-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat details Euro-VI 1.8-liter 300 hp Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder engine]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/08/fiat-euro-vi-1-8-liter-300-hp-alfa-romeo-4-cylinder-engine/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/08/fiat-euro-vi-1-8-liter-300-hp-alfa-romeo-4-cylinder-engine/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/08/fiat-euro-vi-1-8-liter-300-hp-alfa-romeo-4-cylinder-engine/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fiat logoMade almost entirely of aluminum and featuring direct injection, variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust sides and a high-efficiency turbocharger, the new-for-2013 1.8 liter gasser from Alfa Romeo and Fiat Powertrain Technologies is one of those downsized engines that combines all of the latest technologies into a single package.

This Euro VI-compliant turbo'd four-banger is designed to meet stringent emissions standards (U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5), while cranking out up to 300 horsepower. It's this engine that's expected to power the production version of the Alfa Romeo 4C and, given that it has been engineered to be mounted either in back or up front, longitudinally or transversely, it's sure to end up in other Alfa Romeo and Fiat vehicles, too. It's by no means a stretch to assume this 1.8-liter gasser will someday power at least a couple of future Chrysler vehicles, too, don't you think? Details in the press blast after the jump.

Continue reading Fiat details Euro-VI 1.8-liter 300 hp Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder engine

Fiat details Euro-VI 1.8-liter 300 hp Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder engine originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.8-literalfa romeaalfa romeo guiliachryslerenginefiatgas enginegasoline enginegiuliaSat, 08 Oct 2011 12:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20072479/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20072479/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/08/fiat-euro-vi-1-8-liter-300-hp-alfa-romeo-4-cylinder-engine/20072479/article-detail.xml 20072479 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/fiat-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/fiat-250.jpg <![CDATA[U.S. House votes to cut $1.5 billion from Federal advanced auto loan program]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/house-approves-bill-to-cut-1-5-billion-in-advanced-auto-loans/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/house-approves-bill-to-cut-1-5-billion-in-advanced-auto-loans/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/house-approves-bill-to-cut-1-5-billion-in-advanced-auto-loans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

chrysler emblem

Early this morning, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to approve (291-in-favor, 27-against) a stopgap funding bill that cuts $1.5 billion from the Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program.

Republicans narrowly won support of a bill that funds government operations for six weeks and sends $3.7 billion to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) disaster relief program at the expense of advanced automotive technology loans. Six Democrats voted in favor of the bill; 17 Republicans opposed it.

Democrats opposed the bill's cutting of $1.5 billion of the remaining $4 billion in the DOE's AVTM program and warn that at least ten loan applicants could be in jeopardy of losing out, including Chrysler with its pending $3.5-billion application.

To date, the AVTM program has awarded $9.2 billion in loans to six automakers, including Ford, Nissan, Fisker and Tesla.

U.S. House votes to cut $1.5 billion from Federal advanced auto loan program originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced technology loansauto loanautomotive loansavtmbreakingchryslerdepartment of energydoefordnissanteslaFri, 23 Sep 2011 14:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20050910/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20050910/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/23/house-approves-bill-to-cut-1-5-billion-in-advanced-auto-loans/20050910/article-detail.xml 20050910 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/02-2011-chrysler-300-teaser-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/02-2011-chrysler-300-teaser-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Republicans want to halve advanced technology loans, Chrysler's bid for funds in jeopardy]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/republicans-want-to-advanced-technology-loans-chryslers-bid-fo/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/republicans-want-to-advanced-technology-loans-chryslers-bid-fo/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/republicans-want-to-advanced-technology-loans-chryslers-bid-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

chrysler emblem

Republican leaders in the House of Representatives reportedly want to cut in half the balance of a U.S. government fund, the Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program, that was set aside to help the automotive industry develop more fuel efficient vehicles.

If the scheme to shift some $1.5 billion from the DOE's AVTM program to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) disaster relief fund is successful, serious questions would arise surrounding Chrysler's chances of ever receiving the $3 billion it's seeking in vehicle technology loans.

House Republican leader Eric Cantor, not a FEMA fan, says the government needs to prioritize spending, while his Democratic counterpart, Steny Hoyer, says the technology loan money is vital to the creation of thousands of jobs in the automotive industry. Transferring of funds from AVTM to FEMA commenced back in May when the House Appropriations Committee approved the FY12 Homeland Security Appropriations bill (pdf). As part of this bill, the Committee pushed through an amendment that added $1 billion in funding to FEMA's disaster relief fund. The Committee offset the increase in FEMA funds by swiping money directly from the DOE's AVTM program.

To date, Ford and Nissan are the only major automakers to have received funds from the AVTM program, but several smaller firms, including Fisker and Tesla, have benefited from the DOE's vehicle technology assistance program.

Republicans want to halve advanced technology loans, Chrysler's bid for funds in jeopardy originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced technology vehicle manufacturingavtmchryslerdepartment of energydoedoe loansfordfundinggovernment fundinggovernment loansnissanFri, 16 Sep 2011 14:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20044646/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20044646/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/16/republicans-want-to-advanced-technology-loans-chryslers-bid-fo/20044646/article-detail.xml 20044646 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/02-2011-chrysler-300-teaser-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/02-2011-chrysler-300-teaser-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger get 31 mpg thanks to 8-speed trans]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/2012-chrysler-300-dodge-charger-get-31-mpg-thanks-to-8-speed-tr/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/2012-chrysler-300-dodge-charger-get-31-mpg-thanks-to-8-speed-tr/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/2012-chrysler-300-dodge-charger-get-31-mpg-thanks-to-8-speed-tr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Chrysler 300S

The first eight-speed automatic transmission in a domestically manufactured automobile will debut in both the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger for 2012. The eight-speed slushbox, developed by German transmission specialist ZF and often found packed in luxury vehicles from automakers including Audi, Bentley, BMW, Range Rover and Rolls-Royce, will be mated to Chrysler's 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar engine on select models within the 300 and Charger lineups.

The result, says Chrysler, is a four mile-per-gallon increase that bumps up the highway fuel economy rating to 31 miles per gallon for both the 300 and Charger - up from the 27-mpg rating found on five-speed, auto-equipped 2011 300s and Chargers. City fuel economy for both of the full-size sedans checks in at 19 mpg - an increase of five percent over 2011's five speed slushbox.

Compact and lightweight, the ZF eight-speed fit into the 300 and Charger with no structural changes and, despite the addition of three more gears, the transmission actually weighs only 6.6 pounds more than the five-speed tranny. By adding a dash of German ingenuity, Chrysler has gotten two significantly improved sedans. We'll see what the Italians can add.

Continue reading 2012 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger get 31 mpg thanks to 8-speed trans

2012 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger get 31 mpg thanks to 8-speed trans originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 08:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat MultiAir engine

In the coming years, Chrysler will add a megadose of Fiat's fuel-saving technology to tame its gas-guzzling lineup of vehicles. The goal: Hit the target that the Fiat-Chrysler chief executive officer, Sergio Marchionne, set: increasing fuel economy 25 percent by 2014.

Chrysler will take a multi-pronged approach to reach this goal. With assistance from Fiat, Chrysler will shift from six- and eight-cylinder engines to more four-cylinder units and employ Fiat's award-winning MultiAir technology if possible. Aside from downsized engines and MultiAir, Chrysler will license transmission technology from ZF to replace some of the automaker's existing slushboxes. Eight- and nine-speeds transmissions are in the works, with the former showing up in rear-wheel-drive vehicles and the later in front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Additionally, Chrysler will offer more direct-injected turbocharged engines, debut a dual-clutch transmission in 2012 and, of course, launch the electric Fiat 500 in 2012. Chrysler says this lengthy list of changes is exactly what's needed, and we only have to wait three years to find out if it's right.

Chrysler to get MPG boost from Fiat technologies, ZF 8- and 9-speed transmisions originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 21 Aug 2011 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgeeight speed transmissionfiatmulti airmultiairnine speed transmissiontiger sharkturbochargedSun, 21 Aug 2011 08:46:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20017264/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20017264/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/21/chrysler-to-get-mpg-boost-from-fiat-technologies-zf-8-and-9-sp/20017264/article-detail.xml 20017264 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fiat_multiair_580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fiat_multiair_580.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler signs cellulosic ethanol agreement with ZeaChem]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/chrysler-signs-cellulosic-ethanol-agreement-with-zeachem/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/chrysler-signs-cellulosic-ethanol-agreement-with-zeachem/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/chrysler-signs-cellulosic-ethanol-agreement-with-zeachem/#commentsFiled under: ,

ZeaChem demonstration facility

Remember that cellulosic ethanol deal between GM and Coskata? Or the one between GM and Mascoma? Those are a couple years old at this point and haven't exactly set the ethanol markets on fire, but that doesn't mean that the idea of an automaker and a next-gen biofuel company working together isn't passé. Want proof? See a new announcement from Chrysler and ZeaChem to accelerate the development of cellulosic ethanol and spiff up the automaker's green credentials.

The two firms signed a memorandum of understanding to "strengthen the credibility" of ethanol made from non-food sources. Terms of the deal call for Chrysler to push the case for cellulosic ethanol with regulators, while ZeaChem will focus on refining its process that uses microbes to convert woody biomass into ethanol. There also seems to be a possibility that Chrysler will buy cellulosic ethanol from ZeaChem.

ZeaChem is currently constructing a demonstration facility in Oregon. ZeaChem says that, beginning this fall, the site will convert wood chips and wheat straw into ethanol. ZeaChem's grand plan is to secure government funding for the construction of commercial-scale facility in Oregon. That's where Chrysler's connections come in to play.

Continue reading Chrysler signs cellulosic ethanol agreement with ZeaChem

Chrysler signs cellulosic ethanol agreement with ZeaChem originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biofuelcellulosic ethanolchryslerethanolzeachemWed, 17 Aug 2011 12:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20017694/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20017694/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/17/chrysler-signs-cellulosic-ethanol-agreement-with-zeachem/20017694/article-detail.xml 20017694 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/zeachemdemoaug11610x322_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/zeachemdemoaug11610x322.jpg <![CDATA[28 plug-in hybrid Ram 1500s go to San Francisco, Sacramento]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/28-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-go-to-san-francisco-sacramento/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/28-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-go-to-san-francisco-sacramento/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/28-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-go-to-san-francisco-sacramento/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dodge Ram 1500 PHEV

On August 2, Chrysler handed over the keys to 14 plug-in hybrid Dodge Ram 1500 to the city of San Francisco as part of a three-year evaluation program. Fourteen also went to Sacramento. The cities will evaluate the vehicles by driving them and regularly reporting all driving and charging experiences with the loaned demonstration vehicles to Chrysler.

The heavy-hauling PHEVs use Electrovaya's 12-kWh lithium ion "SuperPolymer" battery system that provides enough juice to move the light-duty truck for up to 20 miles in electric-only mode. Additionally, the plug-in Ram comes packing a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 gasoline engine, a two-mode hybrid transmission and a 6.6-kilowatt on-board charger.

Chrysler, along with Electrovaya, will build a test fleet of 140 PHEV Ram thanks, in part, to a $48-million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act DOE Vehicle Electrification Program and a $5-million grant from the Canadian government. The Ram plug-in project is a $97.4-million effort that will soon expand to another ten locations. Earlier this year, Chrysler sent 10 PHEV Rams to Yuma, AZ and Clark County, NV.

Continue reading 28 plug-in hybrid Ram 1500s go to San Francisco, Sacramento

28 plug-in hybrid Ram 1500s go to San Francisco, Sacramento originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrylserdodgedodge ram phevdodge ram plug-in hybridplug-in hybrid truckplug-in hybrid vehiclesan franciscoWed, 10 Aug 2011 08:11:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20006455/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20006455/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/10/28-plug-in-hybrid-ram-1500s-go-to-san-francisco-sacramento/20006455/article-detail.xml 20006455 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/dodge-ram-phev_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/dodge-ram-phev.png -1 2