Sure, the two-mode hybrid variants of the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango SUVs aren't yet on dealer lots (look for our review in the next few weeks), but speculation has already begun on what vehicle will next receive the hybrid touch.
Certainly, we can expect the full-size Ram pickup truck. Completely redone for 2009, Chrysler executives have already confirmed that the two-mode hybrid system - mostly developed by General Motors - will be offered in the Ram starting in 2010.
But what's after that? Some executives hint that the hybrid system may easily be adapted to the company's LX platform (underpinning full-size sedans like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger), or even its successor, the LY.
After all, the vehicles already use a similar 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 found in the Aspen and Durango, and utilize a platform that's biased towards rear-wheel-drive applications.
That said, creating a 300 hybrid won't be a complete cakewalk; we imagine the larger heft of the two-mode transmission may cause some clearance issues, but we'd hope the LY platform would be designed around the two-mode possibility.
However, there's only so much one can do to install battery packs. We'd bet on a hybrid 300 having a smaller trunk than its siblings.
Source: Detroit News