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Hybrid workhorse gets laid off
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Yes! A hybrid can tow! The Aspen is rated for up to 6,000 pounds
In my last column I wrote how the Big 3 should cooperate in new technology and development. This week I had a chance to sample an example of where this collaboration can yield huge benefits.
Back in 2006 GM, BMW and then DaimlerChrysler announced the joint development effort of a 2-mode hybrid transmission, battery and controller system. The design is significant in that the two electric motors for the hybrid drive are built right into the transmission case. The two motors are used to provide hybrid boost at both high and low speeds, (hence the "2-mode" nomenclature) yet the transmission fits in the same space as a conventional, truck-duty, automatic. Production began last year GM’s Allison Transmission facility in Baltimore, Maryland and the first vehicle to use it was the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon. Chrysler has the next shot out of the barn with hybrid versions of the Chrysler Aspen/Dodge Durango, and I had a chance to sample the Chrysler for an extended period.
I love driving hybrids, it’s a bit like a video game on wheels. Call up the Hybrid Mode on the dash mounted display, and you can see whether you are powered by the electric drive or the gas engine, drawing on the batteries or regenerating power to charge them. Even your fuel consumption, both instant and average, are displayed. You will soon learn the slight differences in noise and vibration as the system switches modes. Each manufacturer programs their hybrids differently, Chrysler will allow electric-only operation up to about 28 mph, if you are very light on the accelerator. After that, the Hemi V8 kicks in to provide the power needed for acceleration. Additionally, the Hemi has Chrysler’s Multi Displacement System which shuts down four of the Hemi’s eight cylinders when not required. The result is impressive fuel economy gains, 53% in the city and 40% overall, according to Chrysler. The EPA has rated it at 20 city/22 highway. For all its new technology and electronics, the Aspen looks and drives like the standard, Hemi powered Aspen, seating eight and even capable of towing 6,000 pounds.
Alas, while composing this article, Chrysler announced that the Aspen and the Durango hybrids would be discontinued! Due to slow SUV sales, Chrysler is closing its Newark, Delaware plant in December. The Newark plant is the only one producing the hybrid vehicles. Let’s hope that the folks steering the Chrysler ship will move up the introduction of the hybrid Dodge Ram, which uses the same components. GM is moving forward to push their application of the hybrid system with the recent introduction of the Cadillac Escalade hybrid. Hybrid versions of the full-sized Chevrolet and GMC pickups are next.
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