The heart of the system will be a new electrically continuously variable transmission (ECVT) paired with Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The ECVT has two electric motors and four fixed gears. One of the motors aids power at low speeds and the other at highway speeds. The Hemi V8 also has Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which shuts down four cylinders under light load conditions to conserve fuel. Total output is 385 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque.
With light throttle, the Aspen Hybrid will be able to run on electric power alone up to 30 mph. With heavier throttle, the gasoline engine starts. Like other systems, the gasoline engine turns off at stoplights and restarts when needed.
Chrysler says the hybrid system will boost city fuel economy by 40 percent and overall fuel economy by more than 25 percent. Chrysler estimates fuel economy at 18 mpg in the city and 19 on the highway compared to 13 city and 18 highway with the standard version of the Hemi.
