Many automakers have accepted that smaller, turbocharged engines and hybrids will become the future in order to increase fuel efficiency and meet evolving emissions standards. But this does not signal the death of the V8 engine.
Engineers and sustainability gurus such as Anders Gau, Scania’s Director of Sustainable Solutions, remain convinced of the V8 engine’s viability in today’s vehicles.
Stellantis’ HEMI V8 Engines
Since 2003, when CAFE standards tightened further, the modern Hemi V8 has greatly improved in both efficiency and emissions performance since being revived again. Unfortunately, as CAFE standards tighten even further it appears likely that current Hemis engines may soon be phased out – this will come as a devastating blow for Mopar fans who appreciate these iconic yet powerful engines.
Stellantis, which owns Jeep, Dodge, and Ram brands, has already begun moving away from Hemi engines in favor of electric-powered vehicles. But Stellantis can reaffirm their commitment to internal combustion powertrains by creating an energy-efficient Hemi engine design.
Hurricane twin-turbo I6 engines from Fiat Chrysler offer more efficiency and produce less greenhouse gases compared to traditional Hemis engines, making them suitable candidates for their forthcoming vehicles featuring electrification technology. Yet their distinctive Hemi engines still appeal to loyal customer bases who value its raw power and distinct sound.
Stellantis’ HEMI V6 Engines
Jeep, Dodge and Ram all resurrected Hemi engines as an effective marketing tool, but today those days have all but faded into history due to increasing fuel economy requirements or due to more powerful technologically advanced options being made available; hence why the Hemi V8 engines have all but vanished. Hula hoops and vinyl 12-inch long play records may have their place; today however it seems they belong in history books instead.
MOPAR has not entirely abandoned internal combustion engines, as senior vice president and head of Global Propulsion Systems Micky Bly recently pointed out. Engineers within MOPAR are working on an innovative twin-turbocharged inline-six called Hurricane which could make its debut with the 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
Hurricane will deliver over 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque at maximum output while operating on 87 octane gasoline, according to its company. Furthermore, hybridization compatibility will enable drivers to experience electrified driving without experiencing range anxiety.
Stellantis’ HEMI V8 Diesel Engines
Rumors swirled for some time that Stellantis, the manufacturer of engines for former FCA brands Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep that includes them among its 14 manufacturers, would release an inline-six engine to serve as an energy-saving replacement to Hemi V8s. That engine has finally arrived under the name Hurricane twin-turbo I6.
Stellantis’ Hurricane engine is specifically designed for longitudinal applications and compatible with all of their vehicle platforms – even those featuring electrification. According to Micky Bly, Head of Global Propulsion Systems at Stellantis, it offers greater fuel efficiency compared with their Hemi engine while emitting lower greenhouse gasses emissions.
Still, Mopar enthusiasts remain passionately attached to the Hemi’s raw power and unique sound, representing a significant market segment Stellantis cannot ignore. While its recent revival has improved efficiency and emissions since reintroduction, new engines must meet stringent emissions standards; electric-powered models may offer equivalent or better performance while meeting these targets more effectively.
Stellantis’ HEMI V8 Hybrid Engines
Few engines enjoy such legendary status as the HEMI V8, renowned for its raw power and unmatched performance. Integrating PHEV technology into this engine would not only elevate driving experience but also demonstrate Stellantis’ dedication to cutting-edge engineering.
Although Hemi engines have fallen from favor, the Saltillo plant still manufactures them for Dodge, Ram and Jeep vehicles – such as its legendary 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine.
Stellantis’ engine features two small electric motors at its front axle to deliver additional torque while moving, helping reduce emissions and fuel consumption by switching between gasoline and electric drive modes as needed. It follows General Motor’s innovative Corvette E-Ray model which seamlessly integrated hybrid technology into an iconic sports car; now is time for Stellantis to do something similar; American truck market is ideal for this innovation.
