Chrysler released the Aspen, a luxury version of the truck-based SUVs Dodge Durango in 2006 as a 2007 model. Since its launch, the Aspen is available in one model called Limited.

The Aspen Hybrid will be offered with four-wheel drive and will have Limited trim, which includes front seats, second row 60/40 split bench and a three-passenger split-folding third-row bench seat for eight-passenger capacity. In addition to Limited equipment, the hybrid model adds leather upholstery, a rear backup camera, and Chrysler’s hard drive based MyGIG Multi-Media Infotainment System. The MyGIG system has an eight-inch touch screen and a navigation system with voice activation and real-time traffic. The \ System MyGIG ’s 20-gigabyte hard drive can hold music files, photos, map and navigation information.

While fuel economy will benefit, towing capacity will not. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid will be rated to tow up to 6000 pounds compared with £ 8,700 for a standard model, equipped with AWD.

The heart of the system will be a new electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) paired with Chrysler s’5.7-liter Hemi V8. The ECVT has two electric motors and four fixed gears. One of the motors aids power at low revs and the other at highway speeds. The Hemi V8 also has Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System that shuts down four cylinders under conditions of reduced load to save fuel. total output is 385 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque.

The Aspen Hybrid battery s’300-volt will be under the second-row seats. The battery pack power the electric motor and regenerative braking will charge the batteries. A rectifier under the hood will convert the ‘\ battery’ s power AC to DC to power accessories such as interior lighting, climate control system, and radio. The system was developed with General Motors, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Inside, the Aspen Hybrid will have a power gauge that shows when the electric motors are aiding power or being charged. The power meter will also have a green Economy zone that drivers can use to aim for optimal fuel economy.

With light throttle the Aspen Hybrid will be able to run on electric power alone up to 30 mph. With heavier throttle, you start the gasoline engine. Like other systems, the gasoline engine turns off at traffic lights and restarts when needed.

Chrysler says the hybrid system will boost fuel economy by 40 percent of the city and the fuel economy of over 25 percent. Chrysler estimates fuel economy at 18 mpg in the city and 19 on the road compared to 13 city and 18 highway with the standard version of the Hemi.

Is’t Pricing has been announced but the Aspen Hybrid should start at about $ 45,000 when it goes on sale in mid-2008.

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