US – Working with VM Motori of the Fiat Group, Chrysler will increase the EcoDiesel mix to double previous expectations by the end of November, at the Warren and Saltillo assembly plants in Michigan and Mexico respectively. The move has been made to meet demand from North American consumers.
The EcoDiesel 3.0-litre engine was developed by VM Motori, a Chrysler supplier since 1992, and is manufactured in Cento, Italy. Warren Truck Assembly Plant makes the 2015 Ram 1500 pick-up, while Saltillo produces regular cab versions of the 2015 model.
The emissions-compliant EcoDiesel is a turbocharged, 60-degree, dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 24-valve V-6 engine offering 240hp and 420lb-ft of torque. According to Chrysler, the engine delivers 9,200lb of towing capacity and fuel economy of 28mpg. Like the 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 and the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 gasoline engines also available on the Ram 1500, the EcoDiesel V-6 combines with the eight-speed automatic transmission, TorqueFlite 8.
“Innovation sometimes comes with risk, but being first to market with a diesel engine for the half-ton segment has shown to be a great decision for the Ram Brand,” said Bob Hegbloom, president and CEO – Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group.