LOS ANGELES – With the introduction of the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid and 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid, Chrysler delivers two vehicles that combine fuel-efficient technology with full-size sport-utility, performance, and capability. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler’s first entries in the hybrid market.

Capable of towing 6,000 lbs., the two vehicles deliver 385 horsepower with an electrically variable transmission and two different hybrid modes of operation.

The new 5.7L HEMI Hybrid is expected to deliver an overall fuel economy improvement of more than 25 percent, including an improvement of nearly 40 percent in the city. For customers who desire the performance and capability of a large SUV, the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles will reduce fuel consumption by several hundreds of gallons of gas per year, the company said.

The HEMI powerplant, in hybrid form, will continue to feature Chrysler’s MDS, which allows the engine to alternate between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. The two-mode hybrid system provides assistance from electric motors allowing the HEMI V-8 to remain in four-cylinder mode more often than without a hybrid powertrain.

The Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles arrive in showrooms in mid-2008.