A few years ago Chrysler Group LLC racked up profits selling a powerful V8 engine that it famously promoted in commercials asking, "That thing got a Hemi?"

Now, with Chrysler trying to build a new identity, the answer is almost always going to be "No."

Apparently, Chrysler will focus most of its advertising on the engine’s cylinder deactivation feature rather than the brute force that comes from the engine. A dealer who wished to remain anonymous said that only “Ram and Dodge owners” will still wear the HEMI badge.

Source: Wall Street Journal

Chrysler’s HEMI V8 engine dates back more than fifty years, going back to the first ‘FirePower’ units from the 1950s and culminating with the third-generation design found in the carmaker’s current lineup. While the future of the legendary V8 is in doubt, there’s still plenty of life in the powerplant as it is set to appear in a range of new models including hybrid SUVs, performance muscle cars and workhorse pickups.

Chrysler has extensively updated its 5.7L HEMI V8 range for the 2009 model year, making it more powerful and more fuel-efficient. The new engine debuts in the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 and will eventually appear in other 2009 models including the 300 sedan and Challenger coupe.

Engineers improved engine breathing and added new technologies, including variable valve timing (VVT) to boost power and torque levels throughout the rev range. They also expanded the number of models with Chrysler’s fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS) operation and lowered the idle rev level.

Numerous other hardware upgrades were implemented to build on the quality, reliability and durability reputation of the engine. These include crankshaft structural upgrades, a dual-mass crankshaft damper, floating pin piston design, valve spring design and oil pump capacity increase for VVT.

The end result is output rating of 380hp and 404lb-ft of torque – up 10% and 8% respectively over the previous 5.7L unit. At the same time, fuel economy has been improved by roughly 4% in most applications. When mated with the hybrid system in the Dodge Durango Hybrid and Chrysler Aspen SUVs, power levels rise to 385hp but torque slips to 380lb-ft. The new 5.7L HEMI V8 is manufactured at the Saltillo engine plant in Mexico.

Source: MotorAuthority

Steve Saleen grabbed our attention when he announced his new company SMS Limited and gave us a preview of his upcoming versions of the Dodge Challenger, the 570TM and 570XTM. Since the preview only showed a rendering of the vehicle, we figured it would be quite some time before we saw an actual product. Our expectations were exceeded, however, when SMS sent us news of their very first product: the 296 Supercharger system for the 5.7L and 6.1L HEMI V8. The system features a massive 2955 cc of displacement as well as an internal intercooler, eight-rib pulley, by-pass valve, high-volume heat exchanger and more. The kit can increase horsepower by as much as 45%, all while fitting neatly underneath the stock hood. Follow the jump to see a full list of features.

Press Release:

Automotive icon Steve Saleen and his new company SMS are proud to introduce the first product in the SMS line of ultra-high performance technical parts, the SMS 296 Supercharger™, designed, engineered, manufactured and assembled in-house at our 150,000 square foot facility. Mopar owners of 2005 to 2009 HEMI 5.7 and HEMI 6.1 vehicles are now able to boost under hood horsepower by up to 45% with innovative new dual-screw supercharger (patent pending).

With over 30 years of racing experience Steve Saleen and the SMS design and engineering team have created the ultimate supercharger for Mopar enthusiasts. Now the aftermarket community can take advantage of the SMS 296 Supercharger™, which will be standard equipment on the highly anticipated 2009 SMS 570 Challenger™ and SMS 570X Challenger™, with power ratings from 500 to over 700 horsepower respectively!

The SMS 296 Supercharger™ is packed with innovative features created by SMS engineers to provide optimum boost in an exceptionally compact package.

At the top of the list is the Delta-Frame™ internal intercooler (patent pending), with dual thin-core intercoolers and single-pass coolant flow. The intercooler design provides for a considerable increase in surface area, which has the effect of minimizing pressure drop and optimizing thermal characteristics. The intelligent configuration also acts as a mechanical diverter for effective air transfer into the ports, while the angled manifold enables packaging of runners that are much longer than in conventional layouts.

The long intake runner optimizes airflow efficiency and provides the SMS 296 Supercharger™ with an extremely low profile. This arrangement means that it nestles comfortably within the V, and under the stock hood of all applications, as well as accommodating a bypass system for 3-way cruising off-boost.

At the heart of the supercharger are the asymmetric multi-lobe compressor screws, which are machined in-house by SMS on state-of-the-art CNC equipment. The screw concept is among the most efficient of all supercharger configurations. However, it is also one of the most challenging to manufacture.

In order to minimize parasitic losses, it is crucial to maintain incredibly tight tolerances between the profiles of the asymmetrical lobes. Running dry at speeds of up to 16,000 rpm, there is no room for error. In finishing the screw profiles, the SMS flexible CNC machining facility is working to exacting tolerances. The flexibility of the equipment also means that changes in the screw profiles can be accommodated for different applications.

The innovations on the SMS 296 Supercharger™ carry through to its exterior, with SMS Tailor Made™ custom finishes and powder coat color options to match most Mopar colors. Now enthusiasts can match the impact under the hood with the one at the rear wheels.

The complete SMS 296 Supercharger™ aftermarket assembly looks great and installs easily under the stock hood of all applications including; the Dodge Challenger SRT-8, Dodge Challenger R/T, Dodge Charger SRT-8, Dodge Charger R/T, Dodge Magnum SRT-8, Dodge Magnum RT, Chrysler 300C SRT-8, Chrysler 300C, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8, and Select 5.7L Hemi Dodge Trucks.

Please visit www.smssupercars.com for more information. For a broad understanding of the workings of superchargers please visithttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercharger

SMS 296 Supercharger™ key features: Patent Pending

• SMS-2955 cc / 180 cu. in. Displacement
• SMS-Integrated Front Drive/Induction Combo
• SMS-Dual Screw Configuration
• SMS-Asymmetric Multi-Lobe Compressor Screws
• SMS-Delta-Frame™ Internal Intercooler Configuration, Patent Pending
• SMS-Remote Drive 8-Rib Pulley and Dampener
• SMS-Internal High-Volume By-Pass Valve
• SMS-Low-Profile High-Volume 10 Inch Long Runners
• SMS-Dual Thin-Core Intercoolers with low pressure drop
• SMS-Single-Pass Intercooler Coolant Path
• SMS-Symmetric CNC Intercooler Caps with integrated coolant passages
• SMS-High-Volume Intercooler Water Pump with recovery tank
• SMS-High-Volume Heat Exchanger with all hardware
• SMS-80 mm Venturi with high-flow air filter
• SMS-88 mm Cold Air Inlet Tube
• SMS-SuperTune OBD Compliant Calibration and Program Tool
• SMS-Extruded Aluminum Fuel Rails with upgraded fuel injectors where applicable
• SMS-Ultra-Light Weight Aluminum Construction
• SMS-Stainless Steel Fasteners
• SMS-Instruction Manual
• Utilizes factory throttle body and hood

Source: AutoBlog

Chrysler LLC finally has a hybrid coming to market and executives promise it's just the beginning. The Auburn Hills automaker, which debuted its new hybrid Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen here recently, says it could quickly and easily expand its environmentally friendly offerings.

"These are our first hybrids, but they are not going to be our last," Michael Berube, a senior manager for Chrysler brand marketing, told reporters taking test drives of the Hemi-powered hybrid SUVs this week. "In the future, hybrid and another fuel-saving technology will come in all sizes, shapes and colors."

Chrysler has partnered with General Motors Corp., Daimler AG and BMW AG in the development of a Two-Mode Hybrid System and intends to use the powertrain in future models. The most logical next vehicles are their rear-wheel drive sedans and trucks.

The Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen hybrids will hit dealerships in August, and Chrysler plans to follow next year with a hybrid version of the Dodge Ram pickup truck. The 4-by-4 Durango and Aspen, as well as the Ram pickup are all rear-wheel drive based vehicles.

Looking at Chrysler's lineup, executives hinted that the automaker's next hybrids could come in the form of its rear-wheel drive sedans, the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger; however, they declined to confirm development plans beyond the SUVs and the pickup truck.

Source: Detroit News

This past memorial day weekend a friend and I took a road trip to the Toronto area. Not far from the Chrysler plant in Brampton where the 300C, Charger, and new Challenger are made. Traveling down the 401 on the way back to the states we encountered some pretty bad traffic. However we had some nice scenery to look at, we passed up 3 transport trucks loaded with black and orange SRT-8 Challengers. I searched around and did not find much talk about the production models on dealer lots yet, production started May 9th.



This is where I apologize for not having my camera with me, taking very crappy cell phone pictures of the rigs. Then forgetting my cell phone at home because I got into Chicago at 2am this morning and had to show up to work today.

I will try to append some photos to this blog tonight.

Looks like the one-off, custom made 2008 Cuda coupe that made its appearance at last year’s SEMA Show (see video here) has enliven the interest in the Plymouth Barracuda. This computer generated rendering is the work of Rafael Reston, a digital designer from Sao Paulo, Brazil.

According to Reston, the Cuda Concept is based on the platform of the Chrysler 300C, while the proposed power source is a 5.4-litre bio-fuelled HEMI V8 engine. If you ask us, the overall design seems a little bit too “Hot-Wheelish” for our tastes. Feel free to disagree with us -or agree of course, by leaving a comment below.

Source: CarScoop

The Jeep Wrangler Ultimate with 392 HEMI from Mopar is a concept vehicle that answers the question "how far can you go with the new Jeep Wrangler?" Beginning with the all-new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon®, the design team set out to create the best of the best – combining high style and materials with the best off-road machine ever offered by Jeep.

The suspension is enhanced with a 3-in. lift to clear the massive 35-in. BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires mounted on custom, polished Alcoa Forged 18-in. wheels. The exterior is chromed out courtesy of Mopar: fuel filler door, taillamp guards, tubular side steps, exterior mirrors, tow hooks, door handles, hood hinges and fascia overlays. To complete the look, the exterior is coated in a wildly experimental 'Liquid Charcoal Pearl Coat' paint.

The Wrangler Ultimate's real story is its interior. Taking cues from rugged adventure sports bags and accessories, the team created a high style and detailed interior compartment that is as tough and beautiful as the exterior. Seating surfaces are clad in durable orange mesh fabric and dark slate gray Nappa/Province leather – bound with a heavy black-leather baseball stitch. Instrument panel details are treated to a stunning Argent Pearl/Satin Silver paint combination, reinforcing the machine character for which Jeep is known. The interior is also home to the exclusive MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System. There are also DVD screens for passengers in the front and rear.

To provide authentic performance on the trail, the team also dropped in a 392 HEMI crate motor.

Well the breakup is now officially over between Daimler and Chrysler. No more late night text messages in angst, as Chrysler has decided to be a born again virgin company.

It all starts with the logo. Cerberus Capital Management decided to keep the heritage in check with the Pentastar so everyone can identify with the company. A new CEO has risen, being Bob Nardelli, who plans to move forward and to focus on the next 1200 months. Yep, they really said the next 1200 months.

As for Daimler who is by its lonesome - what's in their future? Shareholders get to vote the new name in Stuttgart this coming October 4th.

External: New Chrysler LLC Website

Mopar is celebrating it's 50 years of HEMI with introducing a Challenger concept, which is now on display at SEMA. Debuting back in the 70's, the Challenger was feared on the streets and was recognized as a very powerful pony car. Chrysler group decided it was time to shine the spotlight on a new concept, and what better car to choose than it's soon to be released Challenger.

What's so special about it? This concept is packing the newly revised 392 HEMI motor, which will come in three variations surely to captivate those who are in the market for raw power:
· Carbureted, capable of 540 horsepower and 490 lb.-ft of torque
· SEFI, capable of 525 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque
· Long Block HEMI Crate Engine

The new Challenger, expected in 2008, is hoping to keep that same vibe going as old competitors, such as the Chevrolet Camaro, will be coming back into production.

With more and more press going to Dodge's vehicle line, Ford has decided to revive the Boss 302 V8 to gain back the muscle crowd. At SEMA, Ford excited enthusiasts by displaying a Galpin Ford Mustang and a Hotrods and Horsepower Deuce concept, both sporting Boss crate motors.

Originally appearing back in '69 Mustangs, the original Boss motor made numbers just shy of 300 horsepower. The new motor, spanning from 302 to 363 cubic inches, is expected to reach numbers as high as 500 horsepower. Block prices will start at just $1,759, and engine prices ranging $4,650 to $10,000 (500-hp Boss 331-cubic-inch engine).

Expect to see these new motors in future Ford vehicles including the Shelby GT, F-150, and other high-performance vehicles.