– Fiat will be the center of global excellence for diesel and small gas engines (1.1 to 1.8-liters), as well as dual-clutch, automated-manual transmissions.
– Chrysler will be the center of excellence for larger 4-cylinder, V-6 (3.6-liters, 280-hp max), and V-8 engines, as well as two-mode hybrid transmissions.
– The technology transfer flowing from Fiat to Chrysler includes Multi-Air valvetrain systems (think variable-valve timing on steroids), forced induction, advanced common-rail diesels, and expertise in alternative fuels. Flowing the other way will be cost-efficient gas engines, hybrid-electric technologies, and efficient V-6 know-how.
– Short- to medium-term powertain strategies include evolving internal-combustion engines, introducing a Multi-Air/downsized/turbocharged/start-stop package, and developing additional hybrids.
– Long-term powertrain plans focus more on hybridization and electrification.
– A Plug-in hybrid minivan and Ram pickup will roll out in 2011, a small battery electric vehicle in 2012.
– The future gas-engine lineup beyond 2010 knocks out six engine variants for Chrysler Group and will include: