Both models feature a 5.7L HEMI V8 with cylinder-deactivation technology and develop a peak output of 385hp (287kW) and 380lb-ft (515Nm) of torque when coupled to the advanced two-mode hybrid system. The vehicles are still fully capable of towing up to 6,000lbs but are expected to save hundreds of gallons of fuel per year for the average motorist.
The two-mode hybrid system, which was co-developed with GM, Daimler and BMW, integrates an automatic transmission with a hybrid-electric drive system. The set-up incorporates four fixed-gear ratios, and includes an electric-only mode, engine-only mode as well as any combination of engine and electric power.
Production of vehicles with the two-mode hybrid powertrain differs in several ways from production of the standard models. New processes were implemented to accommodate the hybrids, including different assembly stages for the powertrain and battery installations. Unique components include a 300 volt battery, the two-mode transmission, a torque power inverter module, high-voltage power cables and a new hybrid gateway module.
The sticker price for a new 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid is $45,340, including $800 for destination, while the price of the 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid (pictured) is $45,570, including $800 for destination. However this is before an estimated tax credit of $1,800 will be applied.
Reader Comments
Fri Aug 22 2008 9:47 AM
Chris says
I wonder why the GM hybrids are so much better when the system was designed by both companies. interesting.
i hope that this hybrid ad on ends up being cheaper than the GM counterparts, because there has to be some incentive to not go get the GM which is much more efficient..
Fri Aug 22 2008 2:53 PM
Laz says
Correct me if I'm wrong, but GM's 2mode hybrid works with two electric motors? First electric motor gets you in first gear and the second electric motor will get you in second gear with the combined power of the first motor. Once you get to third gear the gas engine picks-up in 4 cylinder mode which will get you the extra milage?
Fri Aug 22 2008 3:57 PM
chris says
laz.. thats not what two mode means. and don't refer to it just as GM's system.. the article is clear about it.. the "two mode" hybrid was developed with daimley-chrysler, GM, and bmw. this is the same tech you'll see in the 7 series hybrid later this year, and in the MB s700 if that ever makes it to market.
check out this wiki article.. its pretty much the quickest and fullest explaination
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_Hybrid_Cooperation
Sat Oct 18 2008 5:44 AM
HECTOR says
Now I'm beginning to understand Chrysler's market strategy. Begin by building an SUV nobody wants (have seen only a very few of them on the street).
Then, when sales are on the floor because, surprisingly, nobody is running out to buy your big crapmobile AND gas is super expensive, go ahead and put a complex hybrid system in it so that even less people will be inclined to buy it.
Let me know how that works out for you, OK?
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