STUTTGART, Germany: Hybrid engines have to date been used as a source of general replacement power, but DaimlerChrysler has gone beyond that by using an electric motor for supplemental power to boost the performance of a 3.9-litre V6 while increasing its fuel economy.
Bernard Robertson of DaimlerChrysler says that, with the hybrid Durango with the 3.9-litre V6 powering the rear wheels through an automatic transmission and a three-phase AC induction motor driving the front wheels, "You can get V8 power out of a V6 and make fewer stops at the gas station."
Robertson believes the Durango is "exactly what people want -- to be able to have a positive impact on the environment without having to pay for it. The added irony is that this is done in a sport-utility vehicle." He says it's a "green without pain" vehicle.
Because the electric motor assists the gasoline engine during acceleration, Robertson says, it "provides the power, acceleration and performance of a conventional V8 engine. In fact, it's quicker than a 5.9-liter, V8-powered Durango from 0 to 60 miles per hour."
This reality was repeatedly shown in a serious of drag races and test launches at the DaimlerChrysler proving grounds here in southern Germany. The hybrid Durango was particularly quick for the first 30 metres off the line, thanks to the instant response of electric power.
That electric power that's used during acceleration, by the way, was fairly competently recaptured. Following repeated drives, the charge was still strong enough the launch the hybrid faster than the regular V8.