2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, Jeep EV concept, & 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d

2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid
Along with biofuel-capable diesels, Chrysler has developed hybrid SUVs that are already on sale. The Aspen shown here (and its sister ship, the Dodge Durango Hybrid) is a true hybrid. It's able to operate at speeds up to 30 mph on battery power alone and has regenerative brakes and a stop/start system. The 300-volt battery pack is stored under the back seat. The gasoline engine is the 5.7 multidisplacement V-8, which can shut down cylinders when demand is light. The two technologies together yield an EPA rating of 20 city and 22 highway, a significant improvement over the 13/18 mpg the standard model is rated. Because of that, the Aspen/Durango hybrid can qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $2200.

Towing capacity is reduced to 6000 pounds, compared to 8600 for a "properly equipped" standard Aspen, but the power is there when you need it. The 5.7-liter V-8's total output, when combined with the two-mode hybrid system, is 400 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. Like a lot of hybrids these days, the Aspen has a display in the dash that teaches the driver how to operate in the most economical mode.

On the move, the Aspen seems especially quiet--nearly silent when operating on battery. The regenerative brakes have a different pedal feel than standard four-wheel discs, but on the whole the Aspen hybrid is a very driveable, comfortable large SUV that retains the capabilities SUV owners need. Unfortunately, the future of these vehicles is in question as Chrysler is closing the plant where they were scheduled to be built.

Jeep EV concept
Chrysler has shown electric demonstration vehicles that use lithium-ion battery packs to power an electric drive motor. A controller manages the energy flow. The system is being developed for FWD, RWD, and as shown here, 4WD applications. The idea is that these types of vehicles could become zero-emissions vehicles for people driving less than 150 miles per day, although we suspect the actual range would be significantly less in the real world. Still, it's an intriguing technology.

The Jeep EV, a "range-extended" electric vehicle, backs up the electric motor and battery pack with an integrated electric generator to produce additional energy to power the electric-drive system when needed. The 200-kW (268 horsepower) electric motor generates 295 pound-feet of torque. With approximately eight gallons of gasoline, the Jeep EV has a range of 400 miles, including 40 miles of all-electric operation.

Jeep engineers are also exploring four-wheel drive, using in-wheel electric motors to demonstrate more advanced electric-drive technologies. The instant high torque of the electric-drive motor and the ability to precisely control each wheel independently would supply off-road capability ideally suited for Jeeps, without compromising on-road driving characteristics.

2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d
Powered by an inline six-cylinder diesel, the new X5 35d exemplifies the more performance-oriented European approach to fuel economy in North America. By using high-pressure common-rail direct injection, combined with piezo injectors and sequential twin-turbo technology, BMW engineers have put together a package that delivers high performance and high mileage, and meets stringent North American emissions standards. By combining small and large turbos, the engine develops as much as 390 pound-feet of torque at 1500 rpm, and 425 pound-feet at just 1750 rpm, before reaching peak horsepower of 265 at 4200 rpm. A six-speed automatic supplies the right gear for any situation--0-to-60 mph can be achieved in 6.9 seconds. Because fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg city and 26 highway, the X5 35d qualifies for a $1550 tax credit.

Meeting tough 50-state emissions required using a selective catalyst reduction system with urea injection as part of the exhaust gas treatment. Use of urea, which BMW calls AdBlue, allows for optimized engine management. The system contains enough AdBlue to allow the driver to replace the fluid during normal service intervals, and the cost is covered as part of the BMW maintenance program.