Chrysler's cleaner engine and transmission technology

A whole raft of new engines will be progressively introduced to Chrysler Group vehicles in coming years, as the company develops hybrids, new diesels, more efficient petrol engines and dual-clutch transmissions -- all to meet the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards.

Some of the plans mooted include cylinder deactivation for V6 petrol engines. Chrysler's petrol V8 engines already feature cylinder deactivation, but this has not been attempted previously with fewer than eight cylinders.

The 5.7-litre HEMI engine, as fitted to the 300C, and the 4.7-litre V8 of the Grand Cherokee, will both come in for modification to reduce fuel usage.

In the case of the Grand Cherokee engine, modifications will include the adoption of an E85 flex-fuel system, allowing the engine to run on a fuel comprising as much as 85 per cent ethanol.

A new BLUETEC Diesel will be offered in the Grand Cherokee and will meet the emissions standards of all fifty states of the USA.

California applies a more stringent emissions standard than other states. This diesel will be in addition to the proposed four-cylinder diesel for the North American market.

On the subject of diesels, Chrysler Group will offer a Cummins turbo-diesel engine in their light commercial vehicle range from 2009. This new engine will be 30 per cent more economical than current equivalent petrol engines. The company also claims a 20 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions for the Cummins.

Mild hybrid and two-mode hybrid drive systems will be developed by the company for use in vehicles including the heavier Dodge Ram and Durango.

Drivetrain technology will improve with dual-clutch transmissions and a 'common axle program'. A joint venture with Getrag announced just a few days ago will ensure that the more efficient DCTs will start reaching vehicle production lines in 2010.

Further fuel economy gains will be found through weight reduction across the board and aerodynamic enhancement.

The announcement of the new strategy was made by Chrysler's Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President of Product Development.

Mr Klegon said "Chrysler Group is focused directly on improving fuel efficiency across our vehicle lineup.

"We have developed and are implementing a series of major initiatives -- including a bigger push in hybrid and clean-diesel technology -- to meet the needs of American consumers."

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