The last video has landed from Ford's 2011 Super Duty video series and is called Power Take Off. It's not the traditional power launch we're used to, but instead a new technology that has been introduced that generates power from the transmission itself...enough to power a snow plow, salt spreaders, and more. Very interesting technology.
Our second to last video from Ford's 2011 Super Duty video series takes a look at the New Turbocharger. Mike Rowe explains the nitty gritty about the new turbocharger from it's central position on the engine to a dual compressor wheel with single shaft design. It's only 52 seconds long but there's a lot of information packed in.
The 5th episode from the 2011 Ford Super Duty video series focuses on Durability and the "toughness" that goes into each truck. This video is a bit shorter at 1 minute but highlights the details that make each truck durable.
Today's episode from the 2011 Ford Super Duty video series is called Extreme Weather Testing, where we take an in depth look of the extreme measures Ford takes as part of the development of their trucks. Here's Episode 4: Extreme Weather Testing.
The third video from Ford's 2011 Super Duty series is called The Voice of the Customer. Hosted by Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs, the video series takes a look at the development, technology, and extensive testing Ford placed into every category of the new truck. Here's Episode 3: The Voice of the Customer.
Today we are showing Ford's second video, The Powertrain, from their behind the scenes series. Hosted by Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs, the video series takes a look at the development, technology, and extensive testing Ford placed into every category of the new truck. Here's Episode 2: The Powertrain.
Over the next couple of days we are going to bring you a new video series presented by Ford of the new 2011 Super Duty. Hosted by Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs, the video series takes a look at the development, technology, and extensive testing Ford placed into every category of the new truck. Here's Episode 1: Capability.
Leadership demands continuous improvement. When it comes to Ford F-Series powertrains, continuous improvement has been a constant across several dimensions. Fuel economy. Torque. Horsepower. Durability. Reliability. Flexible fueling options. All those attributes are available and apparent across all F-Series truck lines, ready for customers to do their jobs with the best combination of capability and fuel economy. The next-generation Super Duty, available in 2010, features all-new diesel and gasoline engines and a new TorqShift® six-speed automatic transmission, enabling best-in-class towing and payload.
The 2011 Ford Super Duty contains a wealth of new technologies – from all-new powertrains to software designed to take full advantage of the truck’s continuing best-in-class towing and payload capability – so that customers can get the job done efficiently. Ford research shows that 97 percent of Super Duty customers tow, underscoring the importance of the new Super Duty’s best-in-class towing capability.
A new era in Ford diesel technology arrives with the Ford-engineered, Ford-tested and Ford-manufactured 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V-8 turbocharged diesel engine. Debuting in the next-generation Ford F-Series Super Duty truck, the new diesel engine will deliver significant improvements in torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy while adding more fueling flexibility and easily meeting stringent new emissions requirements.
People who know diesel engines are familiar with, and expect, the noisy clatter generally associated with diesels. That is, until now. When Ford's new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel engine debuts in the 2011 Super Duty lineup, it's expected to be the quietest, smoothest diesel on the market, outperforming its closest competitors by several decibels. Engineering and design improvements to the all-new Ford-engineered, Ford-tested and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® turbocharged diesel engine – debuting in the 2011 F-Series Super Duty – eliminate the harsh sounds of the typical diesel to make it one of the quietest and smoothest diesels on the market. Significantly quieter than its toughest competitor, the 6.7-liter diesel challenges traditional views about how diesels should sound.
A sound clip of Ford's new 6.7 liter Power Stroke Diesel engine has appeared on the internet, showcasing how the motor injects fuel 5 times more per stroke than it's previous models as well as how diesel engine technology continues to become "quieter", although it's hard to tell from the sound bite itself.
I would normally say someone like this has no life, but being a former Lego fan myself in my younger years, I have to say this is pretty cool. This guy built a 32 valve DOHC V8 engine entirely out of Legos including moving pistons, crankshaft, and more. Geek factor? Definite 10. Cool? Yes.
A new era in Ford diesel technology arrives with the Ford-engineered, Ford-tested and Ford-manufactured 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine. Debuting in the next-generation F-Series Super Duty truck, the new diesel engine will deliver significant improvements in torque, horsepower and fuel economy while adding more fueling flexibility and easily meeting stringent new emissions requirements.
Pickuptrucks has been busy as usual looking for the latest and the greatest truck photos. This time they've found a spyshot of the 2011 Chevrolet Heavy Duty Duramax Diesel V8. Details about the engine are as follows: “The new Duramax diesels are based on the same engines that have been around since 2001,” said Gary Arvan, a GM diesel powertrain engineering chief. “The 2500 and 3500 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra HD pickups receive the high-power LML motor [replacing the 2007-10 LMM], while the 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty vans receive the lower-rated LGH engine [also replacing the LMM]. Both have iron blocks, aluminum cylinder heads, and their [6.6-liter] bore and stroke are unchanged.”
From the company that was first to introduce the in-cab digital gauge tuning device, Edge Products is proud to announce two incredible “next generation” products built specifically to give truck enthusiasts the power, style and control they’ve been waiting for. The all-new full-Color Screen (CS) and Color Touch Screen (CTS) Evolution offers the most advanced technology in engine tuning available today.
Edge Products is proud to announce the release of the Edge Racing Juice with Attitude kit for the 2007-2009 Dodge 6.7L Cummins. Elevating performance to a new level, Edge Products is the first company to release a dedicated racing product for 6.7 owners with shift-on-the-fly capabilities, in-cab monitoring, real time safety features, and extreme horsepower gains.
As Chrysler Group LLC prepares to begin operations, the new company formed in alliance with Fiat announced an organizational restructuring to focus on the Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Mopar® brands. The new leaner, flatter structure is intended to restore brand promise and dealer confidence. All appointments are effective immediately. “I personally feel privileged to have the opportunity to lead the new Chrysler and to work with senior management to build this company and our great brands into all we know they can and should be,” said Sergio Marchionne, who today was named Chief Executive Officer of Chrysler Group LLC. “That effort starts with leadership.”
Our friend Mike Levine of Pickuptrucks had the opportunity to interview Ford diesel engineers and ask them questions about Ford's "bobcat" dual fuel engine which blends gasoline and ethanol into each cylinder, delivering power equivalent to a diesel powered engine. The technology is actually really interesting as is worth the read.
ROUSH Performance has announced a line of ROUSH propane-powered pickups and vans will soon be available for Canadian fleet customers. The announcement was made in conjunction with the 42nd Annual Conference of the Propane Gas Association of Canada (PGAC) being held at the Westin Ottawa Hotel June 4 and 5. The first ROUSH propane-powered vehicles that will be available in Canada are based on the Ford F-250 and F-350 pickups, with both offering reduced operating costs and lower greenhouse emissions than their gasoline-powered counterparts. ROUSH also announced that they would be converting E-Series vans to run on liquid propane and these would also be available for Canadian customers later this year. It is anticipated that each model will have the necessary Transport Canada and other required certifications.
For most car junkies, going to the annual SEMA Show is just a dream. But now E3 Spark Plugs is allowing you a chance to make your dream come true! E3 Spark Plugs, in conjunction with StreetFire.net, is announcing the E3 Spark Plugs 2009 Plug-n-Play Sweepstakes! It does not get any better than this: One lucky fan and a guest will win the Grand Prize: a chance to become E3 Spark Plugs’ employee for a week and visit the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, Nevada!
In a report by Reuters, California's representatives are already looking for higher CARB standards, beyond those passed last week by 2016 and approved by President Obama. The new standards create a new requirement average of 35.5 miles per gallon for automakers and now California is looking to raise that standard again, striving for "a much more stringent standard", said Mary Nichols of the California Air Resources Board. Nichols continued with (the rules) "doesn't signal any kind of flagging interest on the part of California in being part of a transformation of the auto fleet to something much more efficient than what it is today". A new EPA waiver request is being created and applied for and is expected to appear sometime next year.
General Motors have released their 2010 Fleet Vehicle Guide to dealerships and changes have occurred to their pickup trucks. GM Inside News points out that GM are dropping their 6.0 liter V8 Vortech engine for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 pickup trucks from normal production but will continue to use the engine for their two mode hybrid pickup trucks. Other engine options for 2010 include a Vortec 4.3 liter V6, Flex Fuel Vortec 4.8 liter V8, Flex Fuel 5.3 liter V8 and a Flex Fuel Vortec 6.2 liter V8. The old 6.0 liter will also be available as a standard option for GM's heavy duty 2500 and 3500 series pickup trucks.
Chrysler LLC today announced the company has submitted three proposals outlining a $448-million plan to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in order to rapidly bring Electric Vehicles (EV) and Plug-in Hybrid-electric Vehicles (PHEV) to market. Chrysler LLC applied for two initiatives established by the DOE—the Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative and the Transportation Electrification Initiative. Both are designed to speed up development, demonstration, evaluation and manufacturing of EVs and PHEVs. The programs represent a 50/50 cost-share opportunity with $224 million from Chrysler LLC and its partners, combined with a matching $224 million from the DOE. These funds will accelerate the market introduction and penetration of advanced powertrains.
Chrysler sources close to Pickuptrucks informed Mike Levine the company may deliver a new 6.4 liter Hemi V-8 by 2011 with expected power ratings of over 450 horsepower and torque. Based off of the current 6.1 liter Hemi V-8, the new engine would be an SRT8 performance option with a "larger bore and longer stroke". The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 also may get the new motor in 2012.
According to Autoweek, Ford is delaying the F-150's diesel engine from it's current expected release date in 2010. Ford's President of the Americas Mark Fields said "No new date has been scheduled" and "We've put it on the back burner for right now". An insider with one Ford plant said "the diesel F-150 has officially been delayed until 2013" but "it will likely be canceled outright".
By 2013, 90 percent of Ford’s North American lineup will be available with EcoBoost engine technology, which is one of Ford’s key initiatives to deliver significant advancements in fuel economy without sacrificing the performance customers want. Ford engineers used virtual tools and know-how to perfect the combustion system of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine in order to handle a wider range of operating conditions and pressures, and still deliver V-8 power coupled with V-6 fuel economy.
Chrysler released details about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee last week and have now released concepts of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. If rumors across the web are true, the Jeep will also receive a 6.4 liter HEMI V8 which puts out over 500 horsepower and 510 foot pounds of torque and a matching all wheel drive suspension system.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has granted approval to the ROUSH® propane-powered F-150 pickup which means that it meets the strict emission standards of the state. This is the first propane-powered vehicle to receive On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD II) CARB-approval since the board enacted substantially stricter guidelines on light-duty vehicles for this alternative fuel in 2004.
Chrysler LLC introduced today an all-new line of V-6 engines that will improve fuel efficiency across the Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge lineup by 8 percent on average compared with previous Chrysler V-6 engines. This more refined and fuel-efficient V-6 engine will ultimately replace seven current Chrysler V-6 engines. The new 3.6-liter V-6 engine—named Pentastar—is part of the company’s overall $3 billion powertrain offensive. It will first be offered in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, unveiled today at the New York International Auto Show and at the Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah.
Ford are making sure their new 6.7 liter "Scorpion" diesel V8 motor, slated for the next generation Super Duty, doesn't reach the hands of its competitors by filing patents for the new engine. The patent describes a pushrod, 4 valve per cylinder set up that utilizes an inboard exhaust along with a turbo charger. Details filed with the patent also state the engine could be used in both the gasoline and diesel configuration. There's even some speculation that the motor could show up in the 2010 Mustang but that has not been confirmed by the automaker.
General Motors announced earlier this week they will indefinitely be producing the highly anticipated 4.5 liter diesel motor. News has spread now that GM's inline five cylinder gas motor will return to production. Built for the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Hummer H3T, and Hummer H3 pickup trucks, the 3.7 liter inline 5 will take production this summer.
Pickuptrucks have caught a new image of Ford's "Scorpion" 6.7 liter diesel V8 engine slated for production this fall to replace the current 6.4 liter diesel. Known for it's clean diesel technology, the 6.7 liter's power targets are more than 390 horsepower and 720 foot pounds of torque, up from a previous 350 and 650 specification. Fuel efficiency is also expected to increase nearly 3 miles per gallon in conjunction with Ford's new six speed automatic transmission.
Given the current economic climate, GM has reviewed and updated its U.S. product portfolio and has decided to place on indefinite hold its previously announced plan to add a Duramax 4.5L V-8 diesel engine in 2010 to its Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light-duty trucks.
Chevrolet and GMC will continue to offer a heavy duty Duramax 6.6L V-8 diesel, which is class-leading in both horsepower and torque. Light-duty truck customers can also choose from several fuel-efficient gasoline engines with GM’s Active Fuel Management mated to a six-speed transmission or a new 2-Mode hybrid that provides up to 40 percent improved city fuel mileage and 25 percent improvement in overall fuel efficiency. In fact, no other full-size pickup has better fuel economy.
GM remains optimistic that the Duramax 4.5L V-8 diesel may be a viable option in its future portfolio.
A group of undergraduate students from MIT have produced a prototype shock absorber that has the ability to generate electricity back into a vehicle. The team claims the shock "increases a vehicle's fuel efficiency by up to 10 percent using a hydraulic system that forces fluid through a turbine attached to a generator". The students are trying to commercialize their product and have found interest from the United States' military and several manufacturers of commercial truck lines. Good luck guys!
Earlier this morning we announced Ford's new mini site for the F-150 SVT Raptor. On that mini site, Ford states the new "Boss" 6.2 liter SOHC V8 engine which pumps out 400 horsepower and 400 foot pounds of torque, will be available as an option in the winter of 2010. Until then, the Raptor will come standard with Ford's 5.4 liter SOHC V8 engine that produces 320 horsepower and 390 foot pounds of torque. Will it be worth the wait? We hope so.
Despite market conditions, General Motors have not cut the eight cylinder motor production from the Chevrolet Colorado light duty pickup truck. GM has cut its high performance vehicle operations group however. GM spokesperson Kelly Wysocki commented "The V-8 Colorado isn't affected" and "It will continue through its originally planned product lifecycle. Only the development of future (high-performance) vehicles is impacted".
Ford Motor Company is resuming production at its storied Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1, which becomes the first manufacturing site to build Ford’s new fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines. The plant, idled since 2007, is ramping up pre-production of 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engines that will be optional on the 2010 Lincoln MKS, Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and come standard on the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO. EcoBoost engines, which combine direct injection technology and turbo-charging are a key part of Ford’s overall strategy to improve fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions across its lineup. The engines can achieve up 20 percent better fuel and 15 percent lower CO2 emissions compared with larger displacement engines without sacrificing power.
ROUSH Performance, with support from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), today introduced two new alternative fuel vehicles available through Ford dealers in the United States and Canada. The 2010 ROUSH propane-powered Ford F-250 and 2010 ROUSH propane-powered Ford E-250 both achieve lower carbon and greenhouse gas emissions due to the use of propane as an engine fuel. On average, propane fleet vehicles reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 18 percent; create 20 percent less nitrous oxide; produce up to 60 percent less carbon monoxide; and fewer particulate emissions, compared to conventional gasoline. These vehicles follow the introduction of the ROUSH propane Ford F-150 in 2007.
The first round of Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra hybrid pickup trucks have made delivery to dealerships nationwide. GM spokesperson, Kelly Wysocki commented "Hybrid (Silverados and Sierras) started shipping to dealers in late January...the supply is still limited but we've already sold the first ones". The new pickup trucks feature GM's "two mode" hybrid system, which combines an electrically variable transmission containing two 60 kilowatt electric motors and a multi displacement 6.0 liter V8 motor, which allow the truck to travel up to 25 miles per hour on full electrical power. The hybrid system does come at a premium though, a $3,000 dollar option, starting the 2009 Silverado 1500 hybrid at $38,995 and the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 hybrid at $39,365.
After years of delivering power to two of Ford Motor Company’s iconic products, the Ford F-150 and Mustang, Romeo Engine Plant has reached a historic milestone – the production of its 10 millionth engine. The 10 millionth engine, a 4.6 liter 3-valve V-8, will be shipped to AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, Mich., to be installed in a new 2010 Mustang GT. The V-8 engines manufactured at the plant build on two of Ford’s strengths – capability for the Ford F-150, the best-selling truck in America, and performance for Mustang, America’s favorite muscle car. In 2008 alone, the engines produced at the plant generated a combined 90 million horsepower, about 2,750 times the combined horsepower of this year’s starting field for the Daytona 500.
The next generation 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty was spotted last week driving around Dearborn, Michigan dressed in camouflage. Inspirations from the 2006 Ford SuperChief concept can be seen under the new camo, specifically its beefy chrome grille. The new Super Duty is also expected to be released with Ford's new "Scorpion" diesel V8 and the 6.2 liter "Boss" V8 we found in a Harley Davidson F-150 last week.
Good news for those enthusiasts looking to buy a new pickup truck from General Motors, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra half ton trucks are now shipping with a 3.73 rear axle option and new 6.2 liter V8 engine. GM spokesperson Kelly Wysocki commented "The first GM full-size pickups with 6.2-liter V-8 engines and 3.73 rear axles started shipping from the factory in late January" and "they should start arriving at dealers very soon. The 3.73 can be ordered as part of the Max Trailering Package option". GM's new 6.2 liter V8 packs 403 horsepower and 417 foot pounds of torque, matched with a six speed automatic transmission, the new motor and axle combination is only available on crew cab configurations. The new 3.73 rear axle option replaces the standard 3.42, which was optimized for fuel economy standards.
At the 2009 Chicago Auto Show, you can find the brand new 2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson pickup truck we brought you last week sitting on the showroom floor. Underneath this custom F-150 though is Ford's highly anticipated 6.2 liter V8 motor nicknamed "Boss", which is slated for the F-150 SVT Raptor pickup truck sometime next year. The new motor produces 400 horsepower and 400 foot pounds of torque, much higher than Ford's conventional 5.4 V8 found underneath many F-150's today. A Ford spokesman commented on the status of the new motor and said "The only engine confirmed for the Harley-Davidson F-150 is the 5.4L V8 it will launch with". I suspect it will hit Harley trucks by the end of the year or sometime next spring.
Indian Automaker, Mahindra & Mahindra, are planning to launch their light duty pickup truck in the Untied States by the fourth quarter of this year, however they will not be built at a plant in Ohio as planned and instead will be built off shore. The diesel powered pickups will be a first for the light duty segment, powered by a 2.2 liter four cylinder engine. The trucks themselves will be equipped with a 7.5 foot bed, have a max payload of 1.3 tons, and achieve a combined fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon.
Toyota Motor Sales, today debuted the 2010 Tundra full-size pickup truck and an all-new 4.6-liter V8 engine at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show.
On display are two new packages, including the debut of an all-new Tundra Platinum Package and the recently announced Tundra Work Truck. Value will be enhanced on all 2010 Tundra models with the addition of standard and optional exterior, mechanical, safety and convenience feature upgrades. The 2010 Tundras will arrive at dealerships in April.
One of our own crew members, DrSpeed, was able to get a three page spread of his 2002 Ford F-250 in the April 2009 issue of Diesel World Magazine. Equipped with a Cummins 5.9 liter ISBe Turbo Diesel engine, DrSpeed's daily driver puts out 550 horsepower and 1,100 ft-lbs of torque! Much time and effort has gone into this pickup truck and it looks like it has finally pulled off. Congrats dude!
Look for the April 2009 issue of Diesel World at your local store and check it out.
According to sources, General Motors will remain committed to releasing a light duty diesel pickup truck by 2010, regardless of market conditions. General Motors' Vice Chairmain of Global Product Development, Bob Lutz, commented on the current situation with emissions problems, stating "The whole light-duty diesel thing is fraught with problems...To meet Tier 2 Bin 5 (50-state federal emissions regulations), the engines are getting more and more expensive...
Hammering home their success in offering a propane-powered truck, ROUSH Performance unveiled yesterday at the 2009 International Builders' Show the next product in the lineup - the 2010 ROUSH Liquid Propane Injected F-250. The ROUSH propane-powered F-250 immediately received considerable interest among the attendees who had been looking for a medium-duty truck that could offer both lower operating costs and greenhouse emissions. According to research provided by the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC), propane is the most widely-used alternative fuel today, with more than 10 million vehicles around the world using it as a fuel.
We originally brought you the story last week and now other sources are saying that the 2011 Ford F-150 pickup truck will offer Ford's 3.5 liter twin turbo charged EcoBoost V6 engine. An additional 5.0 liter motor named "Coyote" will be added as well that features four valves and pulls 400 horse power and 400 foot pounds of torque. Sources are also saying the new 5.0 liter V8 will be found in the new 2010 Mustang as well.
The FS-2500 is a bypass filtration system specifically designed for diesel engines. Diesel engines generate a lot of soot that grinds away the moving parts of your engine. Modern emission controlled engines with EGR and post-injection technology are even more serious offenders when it comes to oil contamination. Every engine needs a full-flow filter, but they have limitations. Because of the high volume of oil they must process, full-flow filters cannot be too restrictive or they would risk starving the engine of oil.
According to Pickuptrucks.com Chrysler LLC have delayed the light duty diesel engine for the Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. Frank Klegon, Chrysler’s executive vice president of product development, says "It will be 2011 calendar year or later". Chrysler also noted the main reason for the delay has to do with the "high cost of new hardware needed to meet diesel emissions regulations in all 50 states for 2010". Klegon concluded with "We were hoping to use our current system (NOx catalyst trap), but the extra cost is a reason to bring (urea) SCR forward in time".
Land Rover announced they will add a new engine to their LR3 and Discovery SUV lineup, borrowing Jaguar's 3.0 liter twin turbocharged V6 diesel engine. Delivering 272 horsepower and 420 foot pounds of torque, the diesel engine offers a 12 percent increase in gas mileage which is a desperate need for the sport utility vehicle. The new motor will be replacing Land Rover's current 2.7 liter TDV6, good for 190 horsepower and 324 foot pounds of torque. Not too shabby, increase in power and fuel efficiency at the same time!
The first in a wave of new Ford EcoBoost engines makes its debut in the Lincoln MKS, MKT and Ford Flex later this year as part of Ford Motor Company’s global initiative to provide powertrains that deliver the fuel efficiency and power customers demand. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine delivers the performance found in a normally aspirated V-8 while maintaining the fuel economy found in a normally aspirated V-6 engine. A look at the highlights of the EcoBoost story: Power and fuel economy: The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter Duratec V-6 EcoBoost engine produces 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 350 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,500 rpm. A 10-15 percent fuel-economy benefit is expected versus normally aspirated 4.6-liter V-8 engines in the same competitive class.
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited EV is a Range-extended Electric Vehicle that provides a glimpse into the future of a “Go Anywhere, Do Anything” vehicle with renowned Jeep Wrangler capability. “One of our goals at ENVI is to develop electric-drive solutions for every segment and for every customer,” said Lou Rhodes, President – ENVI, and Vice President – Advance Vehicle Engineering, Chrysler LLC. “An electric-drive Jeep Wrangler brings ultimate fuel efficiency and ultra-clean transportation to a market segment whose consumers want to explore the environment to the fullest.”
Now in its second generation, the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine has once again earned a place on Ward’s distinguished “2009 10 Best Engines” list. Relentlessly delivering powertrain excellence, Chrysler LLC has earned Ward’s "10 Best" award six times in the last seven years with the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI engine. "The HEMI earns the honor not on pure emotion or brute force but with advanced new technology such as variable valve timing, which allows cruising in four-cylinder mode about 40 percent of the time, which is twice as much as the previous-generation Multi-Displacement System cylinder-deactivation system," said Tom Murphy – Executive Director of Ward’s AutoWorld magazine. "A number of Ward’s testers managed to top 19 mpg (12.3 L/100 km) with the HEMI, putting it in line with certain premium V-6s tested."
Small pickup truck owners rejoice! General Motors have finally released a V8 motor for the Chevrolet Colorado truck and Pickuptrucks have gotten their hands on the new pickup for a test drive. "From behind the wheel, the ZQ8 Colorado has the heft and ready torque of a full-size truck but one with a performance bent" says John Stewart of PUT. GM added their 5.3 liter V8 motor that produces 300 horsepower and 320 foot pounds of torque, quite some power for the smaller truck and from the sounds of things, it seems like an awesome ride. Click here to read their review of the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado ZQ8.
In an interview with Chrysler LLC, Mike Levine of pickuptrucks has confirmed that Chrysler is in fact planning on offering a light duty diesel engine for their Dodge Ram 1500 pickup as well as a Ram Hybrid version. “It still makes sense to offer a light-duty diesel,” said Frank Klegon, Chrysler’s executive vice president of product development. “We think from the total perspective of the regulatory environment, fuel efficiency and other things down the road, diesel is still going to be an element that’s important in this market, and that customers will be attracted to a diesel light-duty truck". In order to develop and build the new light duty diesel engine, Chrysler has teamed up with Cummins who have been producing their current diesel motors since 1988. Fuel efficiency is also noted as a priority for the new motor, over towing performance and other common requests, and the new engine may be produced as a 5.0 liter version. Mr. Klegon also confirmed that Chrysler has promised a hybrid version of the Ram for the 2010 model year and the Ram Hybrid "is still on track". We'll keep you posted Truckblog!
Chrysler have issued a new recall this morning, this time affecting their 2007 to 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with the 6.7 liter diesel motor. The part effected is a silencer pad that can sag and contact the exhaust gas recirculation cooler (EGR). This contact can result in an engine compartment fire and is highly serious. Owners are urged to contact dealers as soon as possible for a support bracket to be installed. Owners can contact Chrysler directly at 1-800-853-1403 or their local dealer.
ATS announces the new Aurora Plus Turbo System - a perfect choice for truck owners that want the ultimate towing or streetable hot rod performance. For diesel drivers who are thinking about, or have already added a power module to their truck, this is the perfect turbo kit to control the raised exhaust temperatures that the additional fuel causes. The Aurora Plus Turbo System provides incredibly quick response with fantastic midrange torque and a nice top end power level. By utilizing the factory turbocharger that comes on the Dodge Cummins...
Jalopnik had the opportunity to test drive the Roush Propane Powered F-150, which features an industry first ever propane conversion system on the stock 5.4 liter eight cylinder motor. The kit itself from Roush includes an aftermarket fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, Roush custom programming, and an option of either a 25 gallon propane tank mounted underneath the truck, or a 59 gallon tank located in the bed. They test drove the truck for over 600 miles and came out with a fuel economy average of 9.6 miles per gallon.
According to Autoobserver, Honda Motor Company are planning on adding a eight cylinder motor to their Acura car brand, but we may see it show up in Honda's Pilot SUV or Ridgeline pickup truck. The addition will not come until 2015 though, or at least that is the current schedule for production. The engine is rumored to be a 3.5 liter eight cylinder, capable of producing more than 650 horse power. Honda CEO, Takeo Fukui, made a comment about the motor stating it "would be completely different from conventional practice and have excellent fuel economy". Sounds enticing for Ridgeline pickup truck fans.
GMC today announced pricing for two new models arriving in dealerships in early 2009, further reinforcing the channel’s reputation for value combined with efficiency and capability. The 2009 Sierra Hybrid joins the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid as the only full-size hybrid pickup trucks on the market. Equipped with GM’s two-mode hybrid system, Sierra Hybrid is offered in the crew cab body style and is also available with 4WD.
Lexus unveiled the all-new, next generation RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid at a press conference today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicle that pioneered the car-based luxury utility vehicle segment when it launched in 1998, is completely redesigned and will continue to set new benchmarks in areas that have made it the best-selling luxury utility vehicle: innovation, styling, performance, utility and comfort. At the heart of the new RX models are two improved powertrains. Entering its second generation, the RX 450h will feature an enhanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that runs on a highly efficient Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new, more efficient inverter, the total system output will be 295 horsepower, 27 more horsepower than the current generation RX hybrid.
Chevrolet today announced pricing for the 2009 Silverado Hybrid - the only full-size hybrid pickup on the market. It starts at $38,995, including a $975 destination charge, for 2WD models with the 1HY package. The MSRP does not reflect a $2,200 federal tax credit that applies to many customers who purchase the Silverado Hybrid. The Silverado Hybrid delivers fuel economy comparable to many midsize sedans, but with the cargo and towing capability expected from a full-size truck. It is offered in the crew cab body style and also available with 4WD.
Airaid received the "Best New Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product" award at SEMA earlier this month for their cold air intake system for the 2007 to 2009 GM Silverado HD trucks equipped with the Duramax Diesel. The system itself improves power, performance and economy numbers. It features an Airaid premium filter with SynthaFlow technology and comes with complete hardware and instructions. For more information visit www.airaid.com.
Edmunds Inside Line were lucky enough to get their hands on a 2008 Toyota TRD Supercharged Tundra pickup truck and see what it can do. With 22 inch wheels stock, 16 inch big brakes and 504 horsepower & 550 foot pounds of torque under the hood, the TRD supercharged Tundra is one to compare with the Ford Lightning...some may say. You'll have to head on over to their website to read their review and check out their video feature of the new pickup truck.
When it arrives at dealerships in mid-to-late January, Toyota's new 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder engine will help make the Highlander mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) one of the best in its segment in the areas of fuel economy, low emissions, performance, and value. It is expected to appeal to value-driven, mid-size SUV buyers seeking these characteristics without the price premium of a V6.
Jalopnik got the opportunity to test drive American Expedition Vehicles' Jeep Wrangler JK packed with a HEMI V8, the same JK that can be found at the SEMA Show next week. What did Jalopnik think of this eight cylinder bad boy? "A seriously badass Wrangler" and we at Truckblog agree! The Jeep is equipped with Chrysler's 5.7 liter HEMI V*, a set of 4.88 gears, heat extractor hood, Flowmaster exhaust, and custom suspension lift. Check out their review by clicking here.
The official SEMA 2008 countdown has begun. Exactly one week from today it's going down, Truckblog.com, Las Vegas, right here, right now. A summary of Truckblog's Live Blogging can be found here.
Check out the list below of our top stories from last week:
Gizmodo posted this neat gadget yesterday called BioBot (warning: their website sucks), which allows you to create your own bio diesel fuel from home. In just eight easy steps, BioBot can produce nearly 20 gallons of diesel fuel per cycle. It uses cooking oil, methoxide, and a catalyst mix to produce the fuel and does so in as little as six hours. The whole BioBot system costs approximately $5,000 and is said to "pay itself within two years". (Note: Cougar not included).
Autoblog posted information about General Motors' new 4.5 liter Duramax diesel motor that is promising a near 35 percent increase in fuel economy for their full size pickup truck segment. The new engine design utilizes an aluminum cylinder head exhaust manifold, integral cam cover intake manifold, hollow balance shaft, aluminum upper oil pan, reduction in vibration, crank journal design, and overall uses less parts within the motor. All of this combined, the new 4.5 liter is expected to produce 310 horse power and 525 foot pounds of torque. Look for the new engine next Fall where it is slated for the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks.
Record numbers of Americans have reduced the number of miles they drive and put off routine maintenance due to high gas prices, tighter budgets, and the belief that if they are driving less their vehicle doesn't need as much attention. However, Goodwrench stresses the importance of regular vehicle care to maintain fuel efficiency and performance, as well as to protect their investment. New data released by the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that, since last November, Americans have driven 62.6 billion fewer miles than they did over the same period a year earlier - exceeding the 1970s' total decline of 49.3 billion miles. And in July 2008 alone, Americans drove 3.6 percent less, or 9.6 billion miles fewer, than in July 2007. However even when driving less, there are a few things car owners should do to ensure trouble-free driving.
Yeah, it’s gotta HEMI Hybrid. And best-in-class fuel economy, too. Official EPA fuel economy numbers for the 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid are 20 city and 22 highway, achieving best-in-class fuel economy ratings for a full-size 4x4 SUV. Chrysler LLC’s first production hybrids are coupled with the renowned 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System (MDS) technology. Total output, when combined with the advanced two-mode hybrid system, is 400 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque – the most powerful hybrid SUVs. The Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid are priced nearly $8,000 below the competition.
Mike Levine of Pickuptrucks uncovered new information about the status of the 2010 Ford F-150 4.4 liter diesel motor. Ford's truck and SUV marketing manager, Doug Scott said "We’re TBD on diesel-engine timing (for the F-150)" and "We can go either way", after questions were raised about the status of the new diesel motor and the current market conditions. Scott noted the reason for the changes is the "continued premium at the pump for diesel fuel as the primary reason for re-examining the business case of a light-duty diesel engine" and concluded with "Even though fuel prices have fallen recently, the (price) differential between gas and diesel hasn’t changed".
Last week we bought you two new SEMA project trucks, the Turbonetics 2009 F-150 and ICON's Toyota FJ45 classic pickup truck. The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab truck was put to the test, as well as Toyota placing the Tundra Heavy Duty under its own tests of whether or not the truck will survive. General Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation both announced huge savings deals on new vehicles, and Ford's new 6.7 liter diesel engine was spotted.
Pickuptrucks.com spotted the 2010 GMC Sierra 2500 heavy duty diesel pickup truck on the road again in Michigan last Friday. Slated to feature GM's updated 6.6 liter Duramax diesel eight cylinder motor that can produce over 700 foot pounds of torque, the truck also features an upgraded grille, head light assembly, and front bumper.
Toyota Technical Center (TTC) celebrated the grand opening of its new engineering and safety testing facilities here today with Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and U.S. Congressman John Dingell, as well as several hundred government officials, community leaders, suppliers and Toyota team members. TTC, a division of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America (TEMA), already has a site in Ann Arbor. With the expansion in York Township, TTC is adding 400 new jobs and will boost its employment to 1,100 by 2010.
Pickuptrucks obtained the latest image of Ford's next generation diesel motor slated for the F-Series Super Duty pickup truck. Dubbed "Scorpion", the 6.7 liter diesel eight cylinder engine was found driving around the factory in Dearborne, Michigan. The new motor is expected to replace the current Navistar 6.4 liter "Power Stroke" by 2011 and is said to produce nearly 390 horsepower and 720 foot pounds of torque. If you look closely at the photo, you'll notice that the motor is actually slanted back, almost to allow for an even larger radiator. What do you think?
The K&N High-Flow Intake System for the 2007-08 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Cummins 6.7L, increases horsepower by 20.63 hp and 43.35 lb-ft at 2500 rpm over the stock intake configuration. To achieve such a performance increase, K&N replaces the truck’s original intake assembly; including the air box, air filter and intake tube with an all-new intake design. The new system draws air through a K&N High-Flow Air Filter that increases airflow and dirt capacity, and never needs to be replaced.
The 2009 Lincoln Navigator offers more than impressive levels of luxury and functionality – it also boasts a significant improvement in fuel economy that puts it ahead of the other full-size luxury sport utility vehicles in the segment. The Navigator, thanks to a combination of architectural changes and systems engineering enhancements, has increased its fuel efficiency to an EPA-estimated 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway on 4X2 models. Combined with overall setup changes that offer lower idling speeds and transmission enhancements, the additional fuel economy makes the Navigator an even more appealing choice in the full-size luxury-utility segment.
At the IAA 2008 for Commercial Vehicles, ZF will present the new automatic transmission for light commercial vehicles up to 15 tons for the very first time: ZF-PowerLine, the 6-speed powershift transmission covers the torque range between 600 and 1,000 Nm (approximately 442 to 737 foot pounds) and is equally suitable for use with diesel and gasoline engines. Thus, ZF closes the gap in the product portfolio between passenger car powershift transmissions and powershift transmissions for medium/heavy commercial vehicles. Furthermore, the ZF-PowerLine aims at light commercial vehicles and small buses as well as pickups. The start of volume production for the transmission will presumably be in 2010, in the USA. Nissan will be the first customer.
Chrysler LLC announced today that the Company and its ENVI organization have new production-intent, advanced electric-drive technology packaged in three different vehicles – one for each of its brands, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge. Chrysler will select one electric-drive model to be produced in 2010 for consumers in North American markets, and European markets after 2010. Additionally, approximately 100 Chrysler electric vehicles will be on the road in government, business, utility and Chrysler development fleets in 2009. The Company said that it is well into the development of advanced, production-intent electric vehicles, and that it will apply electric-drive technology to its front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive and body-on-frame four-wheel-drive platforms in the next several years.
The Bleacher Report is stating that some thieves broke into the Roush Yates engine shop last week and stole three Ford engines valued at $50,000 each. Used at the Craftsman Truck Series and Nationwide Truck Series races, police say the thieves "cut a hole in the wall and were able to get in and out of the doors". The engines themselves weigh about 500 pounds each, so moving the precious cargo could not have been that easy. The bad guys reportedly "wheeled them out into a stolen Penske cargo van" where Police officials later found that van abandoned. Police Lt. Joseph Cooke stated "These are not everyday engines. These are NASCAR specific engines. You can't put them in a car, plus they are Roush Yates engines, Very specific". Anyone with knowledge of the incidents is encouraged to call the Mooresville Police at 704-664-3311 or South Iredell Crime Stoppers at 704-658-9056.
America's best-selling pickup, the Ford F-Series, is raising the bar once again – this time with unsurpassed fuel efficiency on the new 2009 F-150, thanks to significant miles per gallon improvement across the entire F-150 lineup. On sale in October, the new F-150 offers fuel economy that has improved an average of 8 percent across the entire lineup as a result of a wide-range of engineering enhancements. The fuel economy gains reach as high as 12 percent versus the prior model year on F-150 models equipped with the high-volume 3-valve, 5.4-liter V-8 engine.
Today Electric Vehicle conversion company Envia announced the REV-H Plug-in Ford F150 Hybrid conversion offers fleet customers up to 48 miles per gallon, while reducing carbon emissions by 63%. The concept of a Plug-in Hybrid has become very popular in the last year. Plug-in Hybrid cars take power off the electric-grid at night when demand is low and use it to charge a large battery. The cars can then operate as pure Electric Vehicles at lower speeds, which dramatically reduces gas consumption and carbon emissions. This is ideal for many of the 30 million fleet vehicles in North America, which operate over shorter distances in cities.
The 2009 Dodge Ram pickup is an amazing pickup truck, loaded with state of the art features and offers new options never released on trucks before. What the truck is lacking though (and what Chevrolet and Ford are currently developing and ready to launch soon), is its dual mode hybrid powertrain currently equipped in the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango sports utility vehicles. The new Dodge Ram will also not see a next generation diesel engine, but Dodge promises both will appear "sometime after 2009". The reason they are waiting? We're not quite sure. That question was asked to Dodge Director of Truck Marketing, Joe Veltri, who responded "It's kind of like trying to cover every bet on a roulette wheel" and "No one has the money it takes to cover every possibility at launch. If you want to execute a well-designed product with maximum quality, you have to set some priorities. We set our priorities, and we're pretty happy with the [Ram] product mix".
Chrysler LLC is bringing to market three new exclusive lifetime service contract upgrades for its Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge certified pre-owned vehicles (CPOV): Lifetime Powertrain Care Coverage, Lifetime Added Care Plus and Lifetime Maximum Care. These new CPOV upgrades apply to most CPO vehicles and provide coverage to the first CPOV owner in exactly the same way as a new car warranty. These lifetime plans build on the industry-leading Lifetime Powertrain Warranty that Chrysler currently offers on its new vehicles.
The K&N High-Flow Intake System for the 2007-08 Chevy/GMC 2500HD/3500 6.6L Duramax LMM, increases horsepower by 19.67 hp at 2900 rpm over the stock GM intake configuration. To achieve such a performance increase, K&N replaces the truck’s original intake assembly; including the air box, air filter and intake tube with an all-new intake design. The new system draws air through a K&N High-Flow Air Filter that increases airflow and dirt capacity, and never needs to be replaced. Protecting the oversize cone-shaped air filter, and isolating it from engine heat, is a powder coated heat shield that replaces the truck’s stock air box.
General Motors' luxury brand, Cadillac, have decided to re-engineer their popular luxury sport utility vehicle, the Cadillac Escalade, into a crossover sport utility vehicle from it's current pickup truck frame platform. Dubbed the "Lambda Escalade" and based off of Chevrolet Traverse, Cadillac needed to develop a more efficient version of the aging SUV that makes more economic sense to the company in a changing market. What will show up under the hood is unknown at this time, but we'll take a guess and say a possible six cylinder or E85 ethanol motor may appear. The Escalade EXT may be on the chopping block as well with the design of a new model.
If you were too concentrated on the
Republican National Convention last week and did not check out Truckblog at all (which is a depressing thing), this is your chance to get a recap on our top stories.
Also for our jubilee of "Office Space" remembrance this week I ask, how many pieces of flare did you wear to work today or over the weekend?
Ford Motor Company are calling their new ethanol boosted engine "Bobcat", not the EcoBoost engine slated for the F-150 pickup truck platform, sources told Pickuptrucks.com. The new ethanol boosted direct-injection gasoline engines "will deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy" thanks to ethanol boost technology. What is ethanol boosting?
Pickuptrucks.com have been able to confirm after speaking with Chrysler LLC chairman Jim Press that the next generation Nissan Titan pickup truck, slated to be built by Chrysler and based off of the Dodge Ram 1500, will receive Chrysler's 380 horse power 5.7 liter Hemi eight cylinder motor and dropping the current Nissan 5.6 liter Endurance eight cylinder motor. Production of the new "Dodge Titan" will begin in 2011 as production of the Nissan Titan ends sometime in 2010.
Just like the scene from "Office Space" where Drew talks about a particular person showing their "OH" face, Truckblog.TV HD is guaranteed to make you show your "OH" face. Check it out at hd.truckblog.tv on Apple iTunes. Here's our wrath from last week, just in case you missed it.
In an article by The Wallstreet Journal, Toyota Motor Company announced they will make their hybrid engine system available in every model by the year 2020, including the popular Toyota Tundra pickup truck. Questions were raised when the announcement was made, inquiring about previous statements that most automakers stated they lose money on hybrids. The statements were clarified by Toyota's North American Head of Sales, Bob Carter, stating "his company makes a profit on its Prius hybrids, which recently exeeded sales of 1 million units globally".
It should not come as a surprise that Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd of Mumbai, India have delayed the launch of their pickup truck in the United States until the fourth quarter of 2009. The light duty diesel pickup truck will spend the extra time on United States roads for testing and evaluating, intending to travel 3.2 million miles across 25 trucks before the pickups go on sale. Oddly enough, of the 324 dealers that signed up to sell the Mahindra pickup truck, only a couple of them have actually constructed dealerships.
Chrysler LLC’s Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) began rolling off the assembly line this week at its Newark (Delaware) Assembly Plant. Chrysler is offering the two-mode hybrid powertrain on both vehicles built at the plant, Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen. In order to smoothly add one of the automotive industry’s most advanced technologies into their established build process, cross-functional launch teams conducted highly accurate, cost-effective computer simulation of new assembly processes. Similar efforts were conducted at tooling suppliers.
Last Friday we broke news about Pontiac's new G8 ST Sport Truck and now Edmunds Inside Line is reporting that the new Pontiac sport truck will also feature a 3.6 liter six cylinder motor as an additional option to the 6.0 liter eight cylinder motor, offering 300 horse power. If you feel the urge to purchase one of these new sport trucks, you can find the new motor option late next year as a 2010 model. No further details have been reported.
The 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner compact sport utility vehicles added to Ford's leading number of top-safety-rated vehicles by earning five stars in each of the government's crash-worthiness tests. The results top the Toyota RAV-4 and, with the 2009 Escape's improved fuel efficiency, offer better combined safety and fuel efficiency ratings than the Honda CR-V.
Advanced Engine Design Manager, Brett Hinds of Ford Motor Company believes the 3.5 liter six cylinder EcoBoost engine that will find its way into the Ford F-150 pickup truck in 2010 will produce "significantly more than 340 horse power and 340 foot pounds of torque" which beats the current 300 horse power 5.4 eight cylinder currently offered with the pickup truck. The new EcoBoost option is also believed to be equipped with two turbochargers, which prove to be very fuel efficient while producing more power. There is also a chance that the EcoBoost engine may find itself under the hood of the re-designed 2010 Ford Mustang but that has yet to be confirmed. Truck owners, get excited. Reported by AutoNews
