Reuters reports, "Chrysler LLC plans to roll out a hybrid version of its Dodge Ram pickup truck in 2010 that is similar to two SUVs it is launching this year, the automaker's product development chief said on Monday." Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen hybrids are on the way this summer. "The Ram would have a similar drive system to the Durango and Aspen SUV hybrids, which use nickel metal hydride batteries and have larger engines that are capable of operating on four cylinders at highway speeds up to 70 miles per hour to improve fuel economy, he said."
According to Motor Trend, the Ram will feature a "the UConnect system that will allow drivers to wirelessly connect their Bluetooth-enabled phones to their car's audio system -- much like Ford's SYNC unit."
EcoGeek comments, "After several years of Hybrid SUV dominance by European and Japanese auto companies, it’s encouraging to see some signs of a fight back from US manufacturers. Let’s hope this healthy competition extends to smaller, more affordable cars soon."
And that may be exactly the problem Chrysler faces. Honda and Toyota have won tremendous market success selling hybrids of small cars. GM, on the other hand, has focused its hybrid efforts on its biggest fuel guzzlers -- trucks and SUVs -- and can't seem to sell them. Is Chrysler following GM into a costly mistake?
Research hybrids you can buy today with U.S. News' rankings and reviews of hybrid cars and hybrid SUVs.
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