Chrysler has announced plans to build a plug-in hybrid vehicle for their customers. It's an environmental commitment which is now also scheduled to roll on the next-generation Sprinter platform. Sprinter is a large utility van ideal for businesses, and its' currently available with a diesel engine. Up to 20 of the new hybrid models will be placed in use within the USA as a test-fleet project to gather real-world data from real-life use.
There are currently four such machines on American roads which are built off the existing Sprinter platform. This makes Chrysler the only manufacturer currently evaluating a variety of plug-in hybrid powertrain configurations in such conditions.
Such evaluation is important, as one of the current hurdles in the plug-in hybrid race is battery technology. Mike Chernoby, VP of Advanced Vehicle Engineering at Chrysler explains. "For plug-in hybrid technology to move forward, a dramatic leap in battery technology is necessary. The energy storage systems in the Dodge Sprinter Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) concept fleet will provide valuable field experience on the possibilities with lithium-ion battery technology."
Current information indicates that Chryslers PHEV technology is ideal for fleet vehicle use in machines which can be returned to home base at the end of a shift to be recharged. They have the ability to drive up to 20 miles on electricity only, and on stop and go trips would use minimal fuel to power their diesel or gasoline engines.
photo:DaimlerChrysler
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| President Bush gets hands-on experience with Dodge Sprinter plug-in hybrid with Mark Chernoby, Vice President - Advance Vehicle Engineering, Chrysler Group. |
There are currently four such machines on American roads which are built off the existing Sprinter platform. This makes Chrysler the only manufacturer currently evaluating a variety of plug-in hybrid powertrain configurations in such conditions.
Such evaluation is important, as one of the current hurdles in the plug-in hybrid race is battery technology. Mike Chernoby, VP of Advanced Vehicle Engineering at Chrysler explains. "For plug-in hybrid technology to move forward, a dramatic leap in battery technology is necessary. The energy storage systems in the Dodge Sprinter Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) concept fleet will provide valuable field experience on the possibilities with lithium-ion battery technology."
Current information indicates that Chryslers PHEV technology is ideal for fleet vehicle use in machines which can be returned to home base at the end of a shift to be recharged. They have the ability to drive up to 20 miles on electricity only, and on stop and go trips would use minimal fuel to power their diesel or gasoline engines.
photo:DaimlerChrysler