RWD Chrysler sedans next in line to get hybrid option

Posted Sat Jun 21 2008 4:56 AM by Siddharth Raja

Chrysler’s first hybrid models, the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen SUVs, are about to go on sale but they could soon be followed by even more petrol-electric models in many different segments. The technology could quickly and easily be adapted to more models and is likely to filter into Chrysler’s RWD sedan range next.

"These are our first hybrids, but they are not going to be our last," Michael Berube, a senior manager for Chrysler brand marketing, told reporters from The Detroit News this week. "In the future, hybrid and another fuel-saving technology will come in all sizes, shapes and colors."

These latest comments reflect previous claims from Chrysler President Jim Press, who back in March revealed his desire to make every model available with a hybrid option.

Next year will see the launch of a hybrid version of the Dodge Ram pickup truck but after that the hybrid system will likely filter across to the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans. The two-mode hybrid system, developed jointly with GM, BMW and Daimler, is designed primarily for RWD models but Chrysler’s hybrid powertrain chief engineer, Glenn Denomme, says the technology could easily be adapted to FWD models as well.

Reader Comments

Sat Jun 21 2008 10:31 AM
Michael D. says

A Hemi-Hybrid looks to be a good and logical choice and addition for the (next-generation) LX (or LY) based vehicles; they will not only increase fuel mileage, especially in city/town environments, but the hybrid can also act as an enhancement to performance under demands, too.

Of note: the Hemi, with it's Cylinder cutoff, gets similar MPG to the LX's with V6 powerplants as it is.
Sat Jun 21 2008 10:47 AM
Gus says

I guess I was worng about Hybrids being more costly and complicated to produce than they are worth. Seems like everything will be Hybrid by the end of the decade...
Sat Jun 21 2008 4:05 PM
NoNameDenton says

Well, if this saves large rwd from extiction, I will say yay slightly, I would still prefer we get a diesel in the States though.
Mon Jun 23 2008 2:05 AM
Mehul Kamdar says

This is an excellent step forward by Chrysler. Their hybrid 300C should also help them absorb the entire segment that Ford are due to abandon when they stop making their Town Car in the future - the limo and taxi segment - as states enforce minimum fuel efficiency for taxies and limousines one after the other. This step might even help CHrysler survive their present woes and that would be a positive in every way.

Bring them to the showrooms as fast as you can, Chrysler!
Mon Jun 23 2008 11:46 PM
300C Guy says

I would not want to see any 300C taxis and limos. I would not want to drive a car which looks like a taxi.

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