Dodge Ram Hybrid Confirmed for 2010

Dodge will produce a hybrid powertrain for the Ram along with a diesel engine by 2010. Mike Accavitti, director of Dodge brand and SRT marketing confirmed the new models.

The hybrid version will be a two-mode hybrid system, just as will be introduced in the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen.

Chrysler set up their ENVI division (short for environment) last year. But they co-developed the dual mode hybrid system with GM and BMW. So, the same powertrain found in the new two-mode hybrids from GM are just taking longer to get into their Chrysler bodies.

GM has already come out with two full sized hybrids, the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid and GMC Yukon Hybrid. Neither has sold too well, yet, but it's unclear whether that's a supply or a demand issue. Improving a full sized SUV to over 20 mpg is quite a feat, but it may be 20 mpg just isn't cutting it with today's high fuel prices.