DaimlerChrysler resists push for hybrids - GreenHybrid

Jason · #1 (**permalink**) 05-16-2005, 12:35 PM

Wow. What a corny introduction.

Quote:

If Toyota and Honda are from Mars when it comes to hybrid gas-saving fuel technologies, the executives of DaimlerChrysler continue to reside on Venus.

While the two other Big Three automakers - General Motors and Ford - are warming to the benefits of gas-electric hybrids, the German-owned DaimlerChrysler is counting upon the fuel efficiency of diesel engines to solve North America's fuel pump headaches. The Stuttgart-based company's strategy makes teutonic sense when you remember DaimlerChrysler has decades of diesel engine experience in Europe, where about half the vehicles sold are diesel-powered.

http://www.canada.com/montreal/montr...5-a84e4551e87f

Double-Trinity · #2 (**permalink**) 05-16-2005, 02:13 PM

Diesel hybrid anyone? You'd get the combined FE benefits of the hybrid drivetrain and the diesel engine. You'd also have a lot less of the nasty "diesel emissions" through the savings gained by having the assist.

lars-ss · #3 (**permalink**) 05-16-2005, 02:20 PM

I would love a diesel hybrid from Honda or Toyota which was a 5-passenger family car for about $25K and was a "clean diesel"/electric hybrid and EPAed at about 70 MPG. I think it could be done within the next 5 years. I would wait on a list for that puppy !!

Jason · #4 (**permalink**) 05-16-2005, 04:19 PM

Yeah, but diesel hybrids mean GM has to invest in hybrid technology, and they're gonna hold that wave back like there's no tomorrow.