Posted by Bryan on Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 12:01PM :
Dodge Reveals New Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine for Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 Pickups
Feb 07, 2002
AutoWire
At today's Chicago Auto Show, Dodge unveiled the new High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel engine for the all new 2003 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty 2500/3500 series pickup trucks, now the most powerful diesel engine available in a pickup truck.
Since 1989 the Cummins Turbo Diesel engine option has been sold with nearly 75 percent of Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, selling over 860,000 to date. It has developed a legendary reputation for power, capability, and durability. Now the new 2003 Cummins Turbo Diesel engine produces a class-leading 555 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,400 rpm and 305 horsepower at 2,900 rpm, while dramatically reducing engine noise.
``The new 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum V-8 engine and the new High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel are essential to the success of the 2500 and 3500 Dodge Rams,'' said Rich Schaum, Executive Vice President, Product Development and Quality at DaimlerChrysler. ``Powertrains and Powertrain choice are absolutely critical in this market segment, and Dodge Ram Heavy Duty owners are some of our most technically savvy consumers. They are also the most loyal, making Dodge Ram Heavy Duty the Chrysler Group's top vehicle for owner loyalty.''
``Dodge Cummins owners are very exacting in what they want,'' said Dennis Hurst, Executive Director, Cummins Engineering. ``Simply put, they want the strongest and most durable product available and they will not be disappointed with this engine. We have delivered the most powerful diesel available in this class, while improving the drivability, durability and fuel efficiency. This new engine is also much quieter than its predecessor, but still retains the diesel power, torque and toughness that our customers demand.''
Dramatically quieter, the new Cummins Turbo Diesel incorporates a new high-pressure, common-rail fuel system. This system injects a small amount of fuel that starts combustion, before main power-producing fuel charge is injected. By smoothing out the combustion pressure in the cylinder, noise is substantially reduced. Cummins use of pilot injection also provides starting capability similar to gasoline engines.
With class-leading trailer towing rating of 23,000 lbs. (Gross Combined Weight Rating), the Cummins Turbo Diesel offers a wider maximum torque band, with maximum torque at lower rpm than competitive engines.
The new 5.9-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel is so tough, it is certified to a longer engine life compared to competitive diesels. The new Cummins has an average major overhaul interval of 350,000 miles, providing a substantial advantage over the competition. An inline six, the new Cummins Turbo Diesel has 30 to 40 percent fewer parts than most V-8 diesels, which means greater reliability and durability.
The new Cummins Turbo Diesel engine will be available in the all-new 2003 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty which will begin production in the summer of 2002 at the Saltillo, Mexico and St. Louis North Assembly Plants.
Cummins (NYSE:CUM - news), headquartered in Columbus, Ind., is the world's largest producer of commercial diesel engines above 50 horsepower. The company provides products and services for customers in markets worldwide for engines, power generation, and filtration. Cummins reported sales of $6.6 billion in 2000.
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