Chrysler considers using aluminum and electric technology to improve fuel economy

According to the bulk non-ferrous net reprint: For many years, Chrysler has been firmly in control of the large SUV and pickup market, but now it is beginning to face such a dilemma: the popularity of these models makes the company's fuel economy performance in the eyes of regulators appear to be very backward. Now, Fiat Chrysler must have a significant improvement in this area, otherwise it is difficult to meet the more stringent carbon emissions regulatory requirements.

Sergio Marchionne told reporters during an event in Detroit on Tuesday evening that the direction of the effort means that the upcoming top model, the full-size SUV Jeep Wagoneer, will use an aluminum body. In addition, the next generation of Jeep Wranglers, which will be launched in 2017, will also use aluminum materials more. He also said that he is considering the introduction of the electric version of the Grand Cherokee, as well as the new version of urban and rural vans to become plug-in models.

Sergio Marchionne said, “If we are to evaluate us from the perspective of carbon emissions, the plug-in version should be the most beneficial option. The electric age is coming, whether we like it or not.”

Like other automakers, Fiat Chrysler needs to spend billions of dollars over the next decade to develop the next generation of fuel-efficient cars. The federal fuel economy regulatory standards will increase significantly by 2025, forcing auto companies to invest in costly new technologies such as battery-powered, lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber.

In addition, Chrysler must also narrow the gap with many competitors. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, Fiat Chrysler's average fuel economy rating is at the bottom of the industry because its sales are heavily biased towards large SUVs and pickup trucks.

The iconic Jeep shepherd is probably the model most in need of modification. The square model meant extremely bad aerodynamics, and 21 miles per kilometer of driving distance made it too far away from the standards that needed to be reached in 2025.

Sergio Marchionne said that the next generation of shepherds will still use steel bodywork. The company had considered emulating Ford’s new pickups and used aluminum to build shepherds, but in the end it was abandoned because of high costs. Now. However, he stressed that the new shepherds will use many aluminum components.

Sergio Marchionne said, “We have done assessments and carried out mileage simulations. But considering the differences in costs – not only the materials themselves, but also the actual assembly process, I think we do not use them. Aluminum bodywork is also possible." He added later, "But Wagoneer's situation is very different."

According to Fiat Chrysler's plan, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer models will be re-launched in 2018, which will be the largest and most expensive top model of the Jeep brand. Although Sergio Marchionne declined to reveal more details, given the size of the body, Wagoneer must use a lighter body to meet fuel economy standards.