Chrysler Group demonstrated a military version of the Dodge Ram HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), developed jointly with the U.S. Army Tank Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM) - National Automotive Center (NAC). The vehicle was developed in conjunction with the Army's Commercially Based Tactical Truck (COMBATT) program. The COMBATT HEV achieves about 15 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and reduced tailpipe emissions compared with a comparable conventional Ram. When the vehicle is parked, the hybrid powertrain converts to an electric generator to provide 12.5 kW continuous electric power or up to 30 kW peak electric power, eliminating the need for portable generators at remote sites. The COMBATT Ram HEV is based on the all-new 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Quad Cab 4x4 pickup equipped with a diesel-electric hybrid powertrain. The vehicle can be operated in either diesel-electric hybrid or electric-only ("stealth") modes. The COMBATT Ram HEV is equipped with a 5.9L Cummins 24-valve diesel engine and 47 RE 4-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is also equipped with run-flat tires, a central tire inflation system that enables operators to run in different terrains and surfaces, and a hydro-pneumatic suspension system that enhances operation in severe off-road conditions. The vehicle developed for the Army will capitalize on several of the Ram HEV's capabilities: - On-board battery capacity ena-bling a 'Stealth' operating mode and “Silent Watch” capability. - 110, 220 VAC and 208 VA 3-phase power availability. Chrysler Group has also developed a non-hybrid version of the COMBATT truck, also based on the Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Quad Cab 4x4 and also equipped with the 5.9L Cummins 24-valve diesel engine. That vehicle provides equivalent capabilities in off-road and other challenging terrains. Chrysler Group is also developing a Dodge Ram HEV for commercial applications, such as the construction and utility industries. The vehicle, based on the all-new Ram pickup, will be available in 1500 and 2500 models with either two-wheel or four-wheel drive and equipped with various gasoline engines.

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