Dodge Durango And Chrysler Aspen Offer V-8 Hybrid Power Train

Chrysler has released the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen hybrid SUVs with an EPA mileage estimate of 20 in the city and 22 on the highway. That's an improvement of about 40% over their conventional counterparts. The vehicles feature a 5.7L V-8 400-hp HEMI engine, and have a base price of about $45,000. In addition, the vehicles are eligible for a tax credit of about $2,200.

Unlike most hybrids, the Durango and Aspen have a towing capacity of about 6,000 lbs. According to the company, the hybrid V-8s provide better city fuel economy than a standard V-6 Honda Accord, rated at 19/29.

The powertrain for the Durango and Aspen hybrids was developed jointly by General Motors and Chrysler. The dual-mode technology enables the vehicle to switch between four-cylinder and eight-cylinder operation automatically, based upon operating conditions. The vehicles also feature low- and high-speed electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) modes. The Dodge Durango also features regenerative braking capabilities that charge the vehicle's battery pack and provide a fuel-saving power boost during accelerations. It can also operate in all-electric mode at low speeds.

Source and Photo: Chrysler