DaimlerChrysler will begin production of hybrid versions of the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen at its Newark Assembly plant in Delaware. The hybrid system for these vehicles is being developed jointly by GM, DaimlerChrysler, and BMW, and is expected to achieve a 25% increase in fuel economy. The same system will also be available on GM's Cheverolet Yukon and GMC Tahoe SUVs. Production of the vehicles is scheduled to begin shortly after the General Motors launch of the Yukon and Tahoe in late 2007. Production volumes and plant investment are not known at this time.

The Dodge Durango and Chysler Aspen currently include cylinder deactivation technology on their optional V-8 engines. The same engine will be used on the hybrid versions. This technology helps the vehicles achieve a 6 to 8% increase in fuel economy.

Chrysler recently announced plans to offer the hybrid system in additional vehicles, but has not yet announced which vehicles.

Back to Advanced Technology page