"2008 Dodge Durango - The first DaimlerChrysler Two-Mode Hybrid"

"DaimlerChrysler/General Motors two-mode full hybrid system features patented technology that leapfrogs today's hybrid systems."

"Under hard acceleration the two-mode system routes power from both the engine and electric motors to the wheels for high performance." (check out the squealing tires simulation at 2:12 into the video)

Here's a link to a Windows Media Video file showing animations of how the system works:

2008 Dodge Durango Hybrid Video (2:30)


(picture appears to be a 2006)

From oh2o on Allpar

Is it safe to assume that the GM hybrids will be out by then too?

Next up: A hybrid of the Durango and an attractive SUV.

I'll take a CTS with a 5.3 DOD and hybrid please. Should be good for around 330hp and 29mpg.

I thought the Tahoe was supposed to get it before the Durango, so maybe that means it gets it for 2008 too?

Nice to see the American companies roll out something that's heavy duty and does not use an ounce of Toyota tech. I just hope that 'diesel hybrids' may be rolled out someday.

Is it me or does it not seem any different than how the Toyota Hybrid system works? I just got the impression by saying it was a "Two-mode" hybrid system, it would work differently.

From the way I undestand it, the Toyota and Honda hybrid systems really don't use the gasoline engine at all and mostly run on the electric motors, using the gas engine as essentially a big damn generator. Meanwhile the two-mode system still uses the gas engine as a driving engine when needed, meanwhile reverting back to the electric engine at speed to conserve fuel. And of course, if I'm wrong, then it won't be the first time.