New Chrysler Powertrains to Focus on Increased Fuel Economy

A recent article in the Detroit News has highlighted how much the Fiat’s influence into Chrysler will affect that the next generation of Chrysler’s powertrains. A a European automaker, Fiat has specialized in highly efficient small-car engines, and this technology us being heavily utilized. In addition, as we’ve reported to you earlier, the new ZF transmissions that Chrysler is incorporating will be used in harmony with the next generation of smaller Chrysler engines. In fact, it’s the goal soon that every Chrysler will have at least a six-speed automatic transmission, while some will have 8- and 9-speed units.

The new Pentastar V6 has been developed for use across the Chrysler lineup including the Ram 1500 pickup. To date the Ram us using an older 6-cylinder design, and new one would allow it to more directly compete against the base level Ford F-150. Following the V6, Chrysler will take advantage of Fiat’s MultiAir technology from the Fiat 500 in their 4-cylinder engine lineup, which will improve combustion. Turbocharging also is expected in the future in conjunction with the smaller engine lineup. The Fiat dry dual clutch will also be utilized on the new Chrysler 200 as well, which is another fuel economy gainer.