ASPEN HYBRID

Chrysler is utilizing a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) system that delivers the much-desired blend of performance, utility, capability and improved fuel efficiency in a full-size sport-utility vehicle. 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid is Chrysler’s first volume hybrid and will be followed to market by the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500.

With power from two electric motors and a 5.7L HEMI® V8 with fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System (MDS) – the cylinder deactivation system – you can expect:

  • Almost 40% increase in city fuel economy(1)
  • Nearly 25% improvement in combined fuel economy(1)

Many fleets require the space, luxury, utility and safety features of a fullsize SUV. And, now more than ever, they also require vehicles that use less gas. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid proves that there’s no need to sacrifice one for the other. The Chrysler Aspen hybrid features:

  • 5.7L HEMI Hybrid V8 engine with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) which produces an estimated 360 hp @ 5150 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 4300 rpm
  • Regenerative Brake System
  • Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP™),(2) front and side-curtain air bags,(3) four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, a security alarm, ParkView® Rear Backup Camera,(4) and ParkSense™ Rear Park Assist System(4)
  • Elegant design, refined quality, upscale interior with all the same dimensions as non-hybrid models
A MODE AHEAD

Our HEV system is a fully integrated combination of two electric motors with a fixed-gear transmission. We call it the Two-Mode Hybrid. This system allows our vehicles to operate efficiently at different speeds, including “blended” mode (gas and electric) when additional horsepower and acceleration are required.

The two-mode system uses four fixed-gear ratios for high efficiency and power-handling capabilities. The Two-Mode system automatically adjusts for passing, driving steep grades or hauling a trailer. And our HEV system delivers an estimated 360 horsepower with towing capability of 2722 kg (6000 lb) – capabilities not found in other hybrids.

Another benefit of our two electric motors: They capture kinetic energy from regenerative braking and store the energy in the ancillary battery system.

Additionally, Chrysler’s two-mode system allows for more efficient packaging because its compact and powerful electric motors are designed to fit within the approximate space of a conventional automatic transmission – an efficiency advantage compared with today’s typical single-mode systems that rely on much larger electric motors.

CITY TRAVEL

In the first mode, the vehicle can operate in three ways:

  1. Electric power only
  2. Engine power only
  3. A combination of the two

When operating with electric power only, the vehicle provides all the fuel-saving benefits of a full hybrid system. Leaving the engine off for extended periods of time and moving under electric power at low speeds is key to reducing fuel consumption in heavy stop-and-go traffic.

HIGHWAY TRAVEL

The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode provides full eight-cylinder engine power when conditions demand it, such as when passing, pulling a trailer or climbing a steep grade.

During situations where cruise control is activated or low engine power is used, MDS is activated and an electronic boost is applied.

(1)Based on manufacturer’s preliminary fuel economy estimates. Comparison based on 2008 MY Aspen models with a 5.7L HEMI V8 versus the 2009 Aspen Hybrid models. (2)No system, no matter how sophisticated, can repeal the laws of physics or overcome careless driving actions. Performance is limited by available traction, which snow, ice and other conditions can affect. When the ESP warning lamp in the instrument cluster flashes, the driver needs to use less throttle and adapt speed and driving behaviour to prevailing road conditions. Always drive carefully, consistent with conditions. Please always wear your seat belt. (3)Always use seat belts. Children 12 and under should always be in a back seat correctly using an infant or child restraint system, or the seat belt properly positioned, dependent on the child’s age and weight. (4)Intended to provide assistance to the driver. Always exercise appropriate care while reversing.