Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 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[Two-mode hybrid joint development disbanded; Ram hybrid coming in 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/two-mode-hybrid-joint-development-disbanded-ram-hybrid-coming-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/two-mode-hybrid-joint-development-disbanded-ram-hybrid-coming-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/two-mode-hybrid-joint-development-disbanded-ram-hybrid-coming-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



The big joint development program formed several years ago between General Motors, Daimler, Chrysler and BMW to develop the two-mode hybrid system for light duty vehicles is over. With all four automakers now having launched or about to introduce versions of the hybrid system, the joint program is being wound down and the Troy, Michigan office where engineers from each company collaborated will be closed by the end of this year. Most of the joint work actually ended last June and many of the staff have already been relocated to other facilities.

The Mercedes ML450 hybrid and BMW X6 ActiveHybrid are both going into production about now using a version of the two mode transmission built by Daimler.

Chrysler, which briefly built a version of the Durango and Aspen SUVs with the hybrid system last year, remains committed to re-launching the system in the Ram pickups in 2010. At this point however, it looks unlikely the planned light duty hybrid will launch anytime soon in the Ram 1500.

[Source: Detroit News]

Two-mode hybrid joint development disbanded; Ram hybrid coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge ram hybridDodgeRamHybridtwo modetwo mode hybridtwo mode hybrid towingtwo mode ramTwoModeTwoModeHybridTwoModeHybridTowingTwoModeRamTue, 27 Oct 2009 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler owners' manuals go digital for 2010, saves 20,000 trees]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/chrysler-owners-manuals-go-digital-for-2010-saves-20-000-trees/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/chrysler-owners-manuals-go-digital-for-2010-saves-20-000-trees/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/chrysler-owners-manuals-go-digital-for-2010-saves-20-000-trees/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Jeep Liberty Owners' Manual - Click above to enlarge

It was bound to happen sooner or later. For the 2010 model year, Chrysler will no longer be providing traditional owners' manuals on any of its vehicles. Instead, all Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep cars and trucks will come with "a consolidated, customer-friendly user guide and DVD." That consumer guide will be comprised of 60-80 pages in full color and will cover the most commonly-needed information.

While some will surely miss their thick paperback owners' manuals, Chrysler cites a number of benefits to the switch. For instance, dropping the four-pound books will save 930 tons of paper annually, which equates to about 20,000 trees. We'd also bet it's more informative to watch a video on DVD giving the proper procedure to fold down a Jeep Wrangler's notoriously stubborn soft top than reading about it in print.

Oh, and we'd also guess the Pentastar is saving a good bit of cash by making this switch. Full press release after the break if you're interested in all the sordid details.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler owners' manuals go digital for 2010, saves 20,000 trees

Chrysler owners' manuals go digital for 2010, saves 20,000 trees originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler owners manualChryslerOwnersManualdodgedodge owners manualDodgeOwnersManualjeepjeep owners manualJeepOwnersManualMon, 21 Sep 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Dodge Caliber gets new more efficient diesel, for Europe only]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/2010-dodge-caliber-gets-new-more-efficient-diesel-for-europe-on/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/2010-dodge-caliber-gets-new-more-efficient-diesel-for-europe-on/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/2010-dodge-caliber-gets-new-more-efficient-diesel-for-europe-on/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Dodge Caliber interior - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The 2010 Dodge Caliber is finally getting the new interior that it should have had at launch. Unfortunately for American car buyers, this is the only significant change to the Caliber for the new model year. Mechanically, we are still stuck with the decidedly unrefined World engines which always seem to be short on both power and efficiency. That and they often sound more like an old diesel engine than modern diesels do.

European buyers, on the other hand ,will again be able to get the real thing. The Caliber, like most other Chryslers, is available overseas with a diesel engine and the newmodel gets a freshened motor too. The 2.2-liter four cylinder puts out 163 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque which should be ample for the Caliber. More importantly, it's rated at 40.6 mpg (U.S.) on the EU combined cycle. Yes, it's a different cycle than the EPA, but it should still have real world numbers in the mid- to upper-30s. The EPA rates the 2010 Caliber at just 26 mpg combined. Please Fiat, just let us have one modern, affordable diesel to try.


[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading 2010 Dodge Caliber gets new more efficient diesel, for Europe only

2010 Dodge Caliber gets new more efficient diesel, for Europe only originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 dodge caliber2010 dodge caliber diesel2010 dodge caliber interior2010DodgeCaliber2010DodgeCaliberDiesel2010DodgeCaliberInteriorTue, 01 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler could ditch Cummins for Fiat diesel power]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/29/report-chrysler-could-ditch-cummins-for-fiat-diesel-power/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/29/report-chrysler-could-ditch-cummins-for-fiat-diesel-power/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/29/report-chrysler-could-ditch-cummins-for-fiat-diesel-power/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For years, diesel-powered Dodge Ram pickup trucks have featured powerful inline six-cylinder engines from Cummins. By all accounts, the partnership has been successful and the Cummins diesel engines are highly regarded in the industry. Therefore, it wasn't exactly shocking to hear that the planned light duty diesel engine for the Ram 1500 pickup would be sourced from Cummins.

Not long ago, Chrysler's bankruptcy allowed the automaker to cancel contracts that were no longer desirable for the automaker moving forward. The deal with Cummins for the light duty diesel was one such contract, though later reports indicated that the deal could potentially be revived. According to an unnamed source quoted by Automotive News (sub. req'd), though, that pairing may be in jeopardy.

In place of the Cummins diesel engine may very well be an oil-burning powerplant from Fiat, the Italian automaker that recently partnered up with the Chrysler. In related news, Chrysler may possibly withdraw from its joint venture with Hyundai and Mitsubishi to produce the World Engine that's currently used in a number of Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles. As you may have guessed, the replacement powerplants would almost surely be sourced from Fiat.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Chrysler could ditch Cummins for Fiat diesel power originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cumminscummins dieselcummins diesel v8cummins light-duty dieselcummins ramCumminsDieselCumminsDieselV8CumminsLight-dutyDieselCumminsRamfiat dieselfiat light duty dieselFiatDieselFiatLightDutyDiesellight duty diesellight duty diesel ramLightDutyDieselLightDutyDieselRamram 1500ram 1500 dieselRam1500Ram1500DieselSat, 29 Aug 2009 11:54:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Dodge Circuit production hints, possibly coming in 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/report-dodge-circuit-production-hints-possibly-coming-in-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/report-dodge-circuit-production-hints-possibly-coming-in-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/report-dodge-circuit-production-hints-possibly-coming-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Dodge Circuit EV concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

With all of the recent upheaval at Chrysler, it's no surprise that the fate of the very cool Dodge Circuit is not exactly certain. In May, Chrysler assured everyone that the program was not DOA, and Chrylser ENVI president Lou Rhodes recently said something similar to Car and Driver. Rhodes even gave C&D a few details about how the program is shaping up.

The plan would have the vehicle produced by Lotus in the UK and then shipped to the U.S. for the electric powertrain. Chrysler's sales target is 100,000 EVs in order to benefit from economies of scale for all the expensive EV bits. By selling that many vehicles, Rhodes told C&D that Chrysler's efforts could make the Circuit "tens of thousands" of dollars less than the somewhat similar Tesla Roadster. The Circuit is still likely to be Chrysler's first EV, and could start production next year.

Gallery: SAE 2009: Dodge Circuit quick drive


Photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Car and Driver via All Cars Electric]

REPORT: Dodge Circuit production hints, possibly coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge circuitdodge circuit conceptdodge circuit evdodge circuit productiondodge evDodgeCircuitDodgeCircuitConceptDodgeCircuitEvDodgeCircuitProductionDodgeEvfeaturedlou rhodesLouRhodesTue, 21 Jul 2009 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM persuing Chrysler for repayment of Two-Mode Hybrid development]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/report-gm-persuing-chrysler-for-repayment-of-two-mode-hybrid-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/report-gm-persuing-chrysler-for-repayment-of-two-mode-hybrid-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/report-gm-persuing-chrysler-for-repayment-of-two-mode-hybrid-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In a case that's sure to light up our own comments section along with untold numbers of message boards across the web, our friends at PickupTrucks.com are reporting that General Motors has filed documents in court in an attempt to get New Chrysler to honor its full pre-bankruptcy debt of $531,275 (of which Chrysler has so far only agreed to pay back about a third) for work on the sophisticated Two-Mode hybrid powertrain that was jointly developed by the two American automakers along with Daimler and BMW.

Chrysler and General Motors have both filed for Chapter 11 protection from creditors, which allows the automakers to renegotiate - or in many cases completely cancel - past contracts that are no longer desirable. It seems that Chrysler's contract with The General, which is supplying the hybrid transmissions to Chrysler, has yet to be picked up by New Chrysler.

This case is a bit more intriguing than most - such as Chrysler's canceled contract with Cummins for light-duty diesel engines for the Ram pickup - as it pits General Motors across the courtroom and on the other side of bankruptcy negotiations. We suspect that New Chrysler may be keen to pick up its old tab since the automaker is still planning to use the Two-Mode Hybrid technology for future vehicles, starting with the 2010 Dodge Ram, though possibly with more favorable terms.

Gallery: 2008 GM 2-Mode Hybrid SUVs


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

REPORT: GM persuing Chrysler for repayment of Two-Mode Hybrid development originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler 2-modechrysler bankruptcychrysler contractchrysler gmchrysler gm contractchrysler hybridchrysler two modechrysler two-modeChrysler2-modeChryslerBankruptcyChryslerContractChryslerGmChryslerGmContractChryslerHybridChryslerTwo-modeChryslerTwoModegmgm 2-modegm two modegm two-modeGm2-modeGmTwo-modeGmTwoModeWed, 24 Jun 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[IHS Global Insight report forecasts Dodge Hornet may come by way of Fiat]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/ihs-global-insight-report-forecasts-dodge-hornet-may-come-by-way/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/ihs-global-insight-report-forecasts-dodge-hornet-may-come-by-way/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/ihs-global-insight-report-forecasts-dodge-hornet-may-come-by-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Dodge Hornet concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

So far, the path of the Dodge Hornet from concept to production has been a long and winding road leading to nowhere. We first saw the Hornet way back in 2006, and since then, Chrysler has been searching high and low for a partner to actually assemble the vehicle. First, Chinese automaker Chery was tapped as the supplier of choice, and after that deal fell through Chrysler entered into an arrangement to have Nissan assemble the Hornet in exchange for the use of the Dodge Ram platform for a future fullsize pickup from the Japanese automaker.

Now, Chrysler's recent bankruptcy and tie-up with Italian automaker Fiat may put the Nissan plans on hold as well. Automotive consulting firm IHS Global Insight has released a report with projections on Chrysler's future product line. Included in the missive is a forecast that the Dodge Hornet will finally enter production in 2011 based on the Fiat 199 platform and built at the Belvidere plant in Illinois. Click here to read about the rest of Global Insight's forecasts on the future of Chrysler and Fiat.

Gallery: Dodge Hornet


[Source: Global Insight]

IHS Global Insight report forecasts Dodge Hornet may come by way of Fiat originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 dodge hornet2011DodgeHornetchrysler nissanChryslerNissandodge hornetdodge hornet conceptdodge hornet fiatDodgeHornetDodgeHornetConceptDodgeHornetFiatfiat chryslerfiat dodgeFiatChryslerFiatDodgeFri, 19 Jun 2009 19:51:00 EST<![CDATA[REORT: Chrysler kills light-duty Cummins engine for Dodge Ram 1500, at least for now]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/reort-chrysler-kills-light-duty-cummins-engine-for-dodge-ram-15/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/reort-chrysler-kills-light-duty-cummins-engine-for-dodge-ram-15/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/reort-chrysler-kills-light-duty-cummins-engine-for-dodge-ram-15/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to court documents, Chrysler has put at least a temporary halt to the expected light-duty Cummins diesel engine for the Dodge Ram 1500. Mark Land, director of public relations at Cummins, tells our sleuthy friends at PickupTrucks.com:
This is not a surprise. We're OK with this. We've been trying to rework development of the [light-duty diesel] engine over the last several months, given the current economic climate.
It may not come as too much of a shock to anyone that's been paying attention, but it's unwelcome news nonetheless. Just like all other contracts that Chrysler had with its suppliers, the agreement between Dodge and Cummins to build the diesel powerplant was voided when the automaker filed for bankruptcy and the deal was not transferred to New Chrysler. Fortunately, there's still a ray of hope that the engine program will live on. Says Land:
Chrysler hasn't told us they don't want to [build the engine], it just won't happen under the terms of the original contract with the New Chrysler.
Even without Chrysler, Cummins plans to eventually put the light-duty diesel engine into production. There remains a possibility that another automaker (Nissan perhaps?) may pick up the powerplant for use in a consumer-grade vehicle.


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

REORT: Chrysler kills light-duty Cummins engine for Dodge Ram 1500, at least for now originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cummins dieselcummins diesel v8cummins light-duty dieselcummins ramCumminsDieselCumminsDieselV8CumminsLight-dutyDieselCumminsRamdodge ramdodge ram dieseldodge ram diesel v8DodgeRamDodgeRamDieselDodgeRamDieselV8light duty diesellight-duty diesellight-duty dieselsLight-dutyDieselLight-dutyDieselsLightDutyDieselThu, 18 Jun 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler submits $448m plan to build electric vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/chrysler-submits-448m-plan-to-build-electric-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/chrysler-submits-448m-plan-to-build-electric-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/chrysler-submits-448m-plan-to-build-electric-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Chrysler Town & Country EV - Click above for a high-res gallery

Chrysler has submitted a series of plans to the U.S. Department of Energy intended to speed up the development of plug-in hybrids and fully electric cars and trucks under the DOE's Transportation Electrification Initiative and Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiatives. Under the terms of these initiatives, Chrysler and the DOE would each pay half of a total investment of $448 million.

If approved, Chrysler says it will build a new-vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center at an unnamed location in Michigan that would have the capacity to produce 20,000 vehicles per year. The initial programs would focus on building 100 plug-in hybrid versions of the Dodge Ram pickup truck along with 100 plug-in hybrid Chrysler Town & Country minivans. Further, 165 fully electric Town & Country cargo vans would be used by the U.S. Postal Service for daily mail service.

We'd be remiss if we didn't mention that today is also the day that Chrysler bankruptcy lawyers plan to file a motion to sell all of the automaker's best assets to the so-called New Chrysler group, which will likely be headed by Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne. We can only assume these PHEV and EV programs would be lumped in with the rest of the good stuff.


Gallery: 2011 Chrysler EVs


Gallery: Chrysler EV USPS mini-van


[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler submits $448m plan to build electric vehicles

Chrysler submits $448m plan to build electric vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 27 May 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchryslerchrysler electric carchrysler electric minivanchrysler electric vanchrysler electric vehiclechrysler evchrysler ev uspschrysler llcChryslerElectricCarChryslerElectricMinivanChryslerElectricVanChryslerElectricVehicleChryslerEvChryslerEvUspsChryslerLlcdodge ramdodge ram phevDodgeRamDodgeRamPhevplug-in dodge ramPlug-inDodgeRamWed, 27 May 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Driving the Dodge Circuit, now with video]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/11/driving-the-dodge-circuit-now-with-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/11/driving-the-dodge-circuit-now-with-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/11/driving-the-dodge-circuit-now-with-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Dodge Circuit EV concept - Click above for a high-res gallery

A few weeks ago, we got a chance to step into the Dodge Circuit for a quick spin through downtown Detroit. We shot some video of that drive and now you can see the car in action (from the inside, mostly) and hear John Myers, who works for Chrysler's ENVI and was project lead on the Dodge Circuit EV, talk about the car. The bumpy roads weren't quite long and straight enough for our liking, but at least we got to learn a little bit more about Chrysler's EV strategy and why the automaker thinks its ENVI battery strategy is better than Tesla's. Having driven both the Circuit and the Tesla Roadster, however shortly, I'd just like to say that if we can just get auto companies to keep on competing and making fast and fun all-electric sports cars, I'm all for it. Watch the video after the jump.


Gallery: SAE 2009: Dodge Circuit quick drive

Continue reading Driving the Dodge Circuit, now with video

Driving the Dodge Circuit, now with video originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 11 May 2009 11:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrysler electric carchrysler electric vehiclechrysler evChryslerElectricCarChryslerElectricVehicleChryslerEvdodge circuitdodge circuit evdodge evDodgeCircuitDodgeCircuitEvDodgeEvMon, 11 May 2009 11:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Cummins not ready to give up on light duty diesel regardless of Chrysler's fate]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/10/cummins-not-ready-to-give-up-on-light-duty-diesel-regardless-of/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/10/cummins-not-ready-to-give-up-on-light-duty-diesel-regardless-of/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/10/cummins-not-ready-to-give-up-on-light-duty-diesel-regardless-of/#commentsFiled under: ,


2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery

A short while ago, every manufacturer building and selling light duty full-size trucks for the US market was preparing to add diesel engines to those vehicles. Over the course of the past 12 months, as diesel prices spiked and truck sales tanked, one by one every single manufacturer indefinitely shelved those plans. The last one standing was Chrysler, and even that company pushed back its new Cummins-developed light duty diesel until at least 2011.

Mike Levine from PickupTrucks.com spoke with Mark Land, director of public relations at Cummins, about the new light-duty diesel engine. Apparently, the diesel engine maker is very confident that its new engine will get adopted by someone, even if it isn't Chrysler, which is planning to launch a two-mode hybrid version of the Ram in 2010 and at least publicly said it plans to launch the diesel a year later. If Chrysler decides not to bring the Cummins engine to market, it's possible that Nissan may use the engine in its new light commercial vehicles.



[Source: PickupTrucks.com]
All photos Copyright (C) 2009 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Cummins not ready to give up on light duty diesel regardless of Chrysler's fate originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 10 May 2009 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cumminscummins dieselCumminsDieselcumminsramlight dutylight duty dieselLightDutyLightDutyDieselram dieselRamDieselSun, 10 May 2009 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Dodge Circuit DOA? Not according to Chrysler]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/09/report-dodge-circuit-doa-not-according-to-chrysler/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/09/report-dodge-circuit-doa-not-according-to-chrysler/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/09/report-dodge-circuit-doa-not-according-to-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Dodge Circuit EV concept - Click above for a high-res gallery

In a report primarily focused on future product plans for British sports car maker Lotus, AutoCar happens to mention at the end the Dodge Circuit program has been killed as a result of the current financial crisis. The Circuit is the electric sports car first unveiled by Chrysler last fall and is based on the Lotus Europa.

Last November at the LA Auto Show, Lotus Engineering director, Roger Becker acknowledged that the British company was negotiating with Chrysler to build the Circuit. Chrysler meanwhile has committed to building an electric car beginning in 2010 although it has not said which of the five EV prototypes it has has shown will be first to market. Most observers have expected the Circuit to be the first out of the gate. Chrysler spokesman Nick Cappa told ABG that in spite of the current bankruptcy filing "there has been no change to the product plan." Chrylser ENVI president Lou Rhodes remains "jazzed" about the EV development program.

Rhodes told us in a recent interview that there are five Circuit prototypes running in the US with more in Europe, which points to that being the first car. While Cappa wouldn't absolutely confirm the status of the Circuit he did reiterate that EVs were coming starting next year and further announcements were pending. With Fiat set to take control of Chrysler if it emerges from bankruptcy, anything is possible, but for now, the Circuit still seems the most likely candidate for 2010 production.


Gallery: Dodge Circuit EV


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Dodge Circuit DOA? Not according to Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 09 May 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge circuitdodge circuit conceptdodge circuit evDodgeCircuitDodgeCircuitConceptDodgeCircuitEvlotus europaLotusEuropaSat, 09 May 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge Circuit EV First Drive: electric car makes grand promises on Earth Day]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/dodge-circuit-ev-first-drive-electric-car-makes-grand-promises/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/dodge-circuit-ev-first-drive-electric-car-makes-grand-promises/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/dodge-circuit-ev-first-drive-electric-car-makes-grand-promises/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Two months ago we went for a ride in the Dodge Circuit EV. We can now say with confidence that it is worth waiting 70+ days to make the shift to the left side of the car, following a brief spin around Cobo Hall in a prototype vehicle during the SAE World Congress here in Detroit.

We got to spend about 15 minutes in the car with John Myers, who works for Chrysler's ENVI and was project lead on the Dodge Circuit EV. Not to take anything away from what Chrysler has done here, but every time we get behind the wheel of an EV, we get the same giddy smile. It will be a long, long time before the thrill of driving an all-electric vehicle wears off. Chrysler isn't the first to realize that building an EV off of a Lotus platform makes for an incredibly fast and fun experience (see also: Tesla Roadster)

We escaped from the dark confines of Cobo Hall onto a decently sunny day and cruised along the river and past the Ren Cen, gunning the Circuit whenever possible. A car like the Circuit does not like to be stuck on roads with 25 mph speed limits, but those roads made up most of the prescribed route. Still, the instant torque of the electric motor is a rush you get to experience all the time in city driving; each time you pull away from a red light and stop sign you're wondering why gasoline engines ever became popular. The trouble is you then have to stop right away, which brings about some pretty strong regenerative braking action, something that Chrysler needs to work on before making the Circuit available for sale. Keep reading about the EV's good and bad qualities after the jump.

Gallery: SAE 2009: Dodge Circuit quick drive

Continue reading Dodge Circuit EV First Drive: electric car makes grand promises on Earth Day

Dodge Circuit EV First Drive: electric car makes grand promises on Earth Day originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler electric vehiclechrysler evChryslerElectricVehicleChryslerEvdodge circuitdodge evDodgeCircuitDodgeEvenvifeaturedjohn myersJohnMyersWed, 22 Apr 2009 19:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Dodge HEMI Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/19/spy-shots-dodge-hemi-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/19/spy-shots-dodge-hemi-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/19/spy-shots-dodge-hemi-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It looks like the Dodge Ram Hybrid is on target to be released as a 2010 model, as this series of spy shots proves. Expect a version of the 2-Mode hybrid powertrain Chrysler co-developed with BMW, Mercedes-Benz and General Motors. In the case of the Ram, a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with cylinder deactivation will be hooked to the sophisticated automatic transmission that features twin 60 kW electric motors. A similar setup is used by General Motors for its Chevy Silverado Hybrid and GMC Sierra Hybrid, which we recently got the chance to take out for a test drive.

We're not yet certain what kind of batteries Chrysler is planning to use in the Ram Hybrid, but General Motors uses a 300V nickel metal hydride unit in its 2-Mode hybrids. Regenerative braking is expected, as is the ability to travel under light throttle conditions using no gasoline at all at up to about 25 miles per hour. We're happy to see that testing of the hybrid truck is well underway, we just wish it were being joined by the 5.0L Cummins diesel engine that had also been planned for 2010.

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Spy Shots: Dodge HEMI Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 19 Apr 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a hi-res Gallery of the Dodge Circuit EV

It looks like the Dodge Circuit EV may have won the "who wants to be the first electric Chrysler concept to go into production" contest. Although they still haven't officially made an announcement, Chrysler's viability plan did list an "EV Roadster" as part of their 2010 product line. Based on the lightweight Lotus Europa and using drivetrain parts pilfered from UQM, the concept drew some fairly positive responses when it took on the new Dodge Challenger in an impromptu drag race and later, when it got its crosshair makeover. Its 150 to 200 mile range is significantly higher than many other electric vehicles in the works and should add to its appeal.

While the market may be smaller for a sub-5 second 0-to-60 sportscar than say, the family-sized range-extended 200C EV concept, development costs are substantially less and, while it will still lose the money, it won't lose as much as their other electric concepts. It also gives them a niche the other major automakers won't be able to compete in for some time and a way to meet stricter Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. Since the Circuit will probably change somewhat as it makes the transition to a production vehicle, tell us in the comments section what you would like to see in the sales-floor version.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Dodge Circuit EV


Gallery: Dodge Circuit EV


[Source: CNN Money]



Chrysler's first EV will be the Dodge Circuit originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingDodge Circuit EVDodge EVDodgeCircuitEvDodgeEvLotus EuropaLotusEuropaThu, 16 Apr 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[SAE 2009: FEV will bring Dodge Caliber plug-in hybrid concept to Cobo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/14/sae-2009-fev-will-bring-dodge-caliber-plug-in-hybrid-concept-to/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/14/sae-2009-fev-will-bring-dodge-caliber-plug-in-hybrid-concept-to/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/14/sae-2009-fev-will-bring-dodge-caliber-plug-in-hybrid-concept-to/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We're looking forward to seeing Raser's plug-in 100 mpge HUMMER at the SAE World Congress next week. Raser's partner in that project, FEV, will also bring along a Dodge Caliber to Cobo Hall next week, one that has had a powertrain transplant and now runs off of electrons as well as gasoline in a range-extended electric vehicle (ReEV) set-up. The concept powertrain was intended as an internal R&D project "to evaluate different options for the engine/generator unit, and the associated calibration strategies," said Dr. Joachim Wolschendorf, CTO and vice president of the Vehicle and Drivetrain Engineering Division of FEV, Inc.

The powertrain mates a 1.0L, 3-cylinder, 4 valve engine to a UQM PP75 generator. This gives 41kW of power in extended-range mode (peak power is 75kW) to the 346V li-ion battery pack and gets 40 miles of all-electric power and a top speed of 84 mph. FEV is apparently working on more concept vehicles in their Auburn Hills, Michigan Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Development Center. More details after the jump.

[Source: FEV, Inc.]

Continue reading SAE 2009: FEV will bring Dodge Caliber plug-in hybrid concept to Cobo

SAE 2009: FEV will bring Dodge Caliber plug-in hybrid concept to Cobo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge caliberDodgeCaliberraserrevsaesae world congressSaeWorldCongressTue, 14 Apr 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[New York 2009: Performance, the past and the hoped for future]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-2009-performance-the-past-and-the-hoped-for-future/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-2009-performance-the-past-and-the-hoped-for-future/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-2009-performance-the-past-and-the-hoped-for-future/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Dodge Viper sits in the shadow of the Circuit EV prototype

Out in the middle of the Dodge display here at the Javits center lies the past and future of performance cars. Sitting on the floor is the epitome of old school performance, the Viper SRT-10. With a rip-roaring 8.4-liter V10, the Viper accelerates at a rate few cars on the road today can match. In doing so however, it consumes prodigious amounts of refined petroleum.

Just a few feet away, highlighted on the turntable, was the Dodge Circuit. Based on the Lotus Europa, the battery-powered Circuit is likely to be the first of several electric drive vehicles that Chrysler plans to produce starting in 2010. While it's not quite as fast as the Viper at this point, 0-60 times in the 5-second range are nothing to be embarrassed about. Unlike its long-nosed sibling, the Circuit emits nothing nor does it consume any petroleum products directly. Now if only Chrysler can stay in business long enough...

New York 2009: Performance, the past and the hoped for future originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge circuitdodge circuit evdodge viperdodge viper srt-10dodge viper srt10dodge viper srt10 acrDodgeCircuitDodgeCircuitEvDodgeViperDodgeViperSrt-10DodgeViperSrt10DodgeViperSrt10Acrnew yorknew york 2009new york autonew york auto shownew york auto show 2009new york autoshowNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoNewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2009Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ENVI boss Lou Rhodes talks about Chrysler's EV programs]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/envi-boss-lou-rhodes-talks-about-chryslers-ev-programs/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/envi-boss-lou-rhodes-talks-about-chryslers-ev-programs/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/envi-boss-lou-rhodes-talks-about-chryslers-ev-programs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Lou Rhodes and the Dodge Circuit prototype

When Chrysler announced the creation of its ENVI division to spearhead the development of electric vehicles back in September 2007, it was seen by most as a knee-jerk response to the introduction of the Chevrolet Volt. When Chrysler debuted a trio of concepts a few months later at last year's Detroit Auto Show they were seen as the usual vapor that would never see production. Same story when another trio of converted production cars were shown last September. Compared to the Chevy Volt, these were seen as a half-baked attempt to grab some of the EV spot-light without building an optimized dedicated vehicle.

Last fall, Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli announced that at least one of those vehicles would go into production by 2010. Last week Green Fuels Forescast sat down with ENVI President Lou Rhodes and Executive Engineer Doug Quigley to talk about the electric drive systems being developed in Auburn Hills. Rhodes and Quigley revealed some very interesting information about air vs. liquid cooled batteries, range-extender sizes and more. It turns out the development of these electric vehicles actually started back in late 2005, before the Volt was even conceived. Rhodes also promised that additional announcements about which vehicle would be built and who would supply batteries will be coming in the next few weeks.

[Source: Green Fuels Forecast]

ENVI boss Lou Rhodes talks about Chrysler's EV programs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler envichrysler llcChryslerEnviChryslerLlcdoug quigleyDougQuigleyelectric carelectric carselectric-carElectricCarElectricCarsenvier-evlou rhodesLouRhodesrange extendedrange extended electric vehiclerange extenderRangeExtendedRangeExtendedElectricVehicleRangeExtenderre-evThu, 02 Apr 2009 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>PickupTrucks.com</i> looks at Diesel Exhaust Fluid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/i-pickuptrucks-com-i-looks-at-diesel-exhaust-fluid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/i-pickuptrucks-com-i-looks-at-diesel-exhaust-fluid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/i-pickuptrucks-com-i-looks-at-diesel-exhaust-fluid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When 2010 rolls around in about nine months, all automakers that offer diesel vehicles in the United States will need to meet new requirements that will mandate a 90 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions compared to what is allowable today. These regulations will also cover large pickup trucks from General Motors, Ford and Chrysler. Each automaker is free to choose what technology it will use to meet the emissions rules, and, surprisingly, the three aren't always taking the same route.

For the 2010 model year, Chrysler has announced that it will use two different technologies to meet the regulated NOx levels. Since 2007, the Cummins diesel engines installed in Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 models have met the 2010 standards using an exhaust gas recirculation system along with a special catalyst that uses precious metals to scrub NOx gases. Larger Ram trucks with diesel engines will join GM and Ford in using a liquid consisting of urea and deionized water beginning next year.

This Diesel Exhaust Fluid will be stored in a tank and injected as a mist into the exhaust. Due to the high temperatures present, the fluid will turn into ammonia and will help break down the harmful NOx gases. Our friends at PickupTrucks.com have a nice article detailing the system that Heavy Duty Dodge trucks will launch for the 2010 model year, click here to check it out.

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

PickupTrucks.com looks at Diesel Exhaust Fluid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieseldiesel exhaustdiesel exhaust fluidDieselExhaustDieselExhaustFluiddodge ramdodge ram dieseldodge ram diesel 2010DodgeRamDodgeRamDieselDodgeRamDiesel2010ureaurea fluidurea injectionUreaFluidUreaInjectionTue, 10 Mar 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[No surprise: Nissan-built small Chrysler model in trouble]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/13/no-surprise-nissan-built-small-chrysler-model-in-trouble/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/13/no-surprise-nissan-built-small-chrysler-model-in-trouble/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/13/no-surprise-nissan-built-small-chrysler-model-in-trouble/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Dodge Hornet concept

Color us unsurprised at the revelation that the long awaited tie up between Chrysler and Nissan has hit a rocky patch. Recall that the two automakers struck a deal last April that would have Dodge supply the next generation of the Nissan Titan fullsize pickup truck (built atop its Ram platform) in exchange for a duo of small cars to be built by Nissan and sold as Dodges. After the last few years of failed attempts to get some other automaker (first by way of Chinese automaker Chery, then Nissan) to build a small car for sale here in America, we've grown immune to the disappointment of not getting the Dodge Hornet concept produced in a timely fashion.

According to reports, sales of the Dodge Trazo, which is literally nothing more than a Nissan Versa wearing new badges, will go on as planned in South America. The other small car and the Dodge-built pickup have reportedly been put on hold as the companies work to fix their own financial problems. Our last hope may be that Chrysler is able to drum up enough money to make the planned strategic alliance with Fiat work out as hoped before its too late.

Gallery: Dodge Hornet


[Source: CNN]

No surprise: Nissan-built small Chrysler model in trouble originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrysler nissanChryslerNissandodge hornetdodge small carDodgeHornetDodgeSmallCarsmall dodgeSmallDodgeFri, 13 Feb 2009 16:54:00 EST