Maximizing MPG with MDS: Tips From the Chrysler Group On Getting the Most Fuel Savings With Its Multi-Displacement System

- Chrysler Group MDS improves fuel economy up to 20 percent - Standard equipment on almost all HEMI 5.7L engines

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 1 -- Just a few simple tips can help owners of Chrysler Group engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) get the most fuel mileage possible from their 5.7L HEMI(R) V8 engine.

The customer does not need to drive in a certain way to realize a fuel economy improvement with MDS, but these driving habits can maximize their fuel savings with this technology.

* Keeping speeds to 65 mph or below - MDS uses four cylinder mode most at these speeds

* Use cruise control - this helps maintain a steady speed, generally allowing the HEMI to run on four cylinders for longer periods

* Accelerate more gradually - the HEMI will provide V8 power whenever it is requested by the driver

* Use a steady throttle whenever possible - this maximizes four cylinder mode

The Chrysler Group MDS is standard equipment with the 5.7L HEMI on seven vehicles: the Chrysler 300C, Dodge Charger R/T, Durango, Magnum R/T, Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander.

With the addition of MDS to HEMI-equipped Dodge Durango and Ram, MDS- equipped vehicles through the end of the 2007 model year will save more than 60 million gallons of fuel each year.

The Chrysler Group MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel- economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the 5.7L HEMI engine is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

Chrysler Group was the first to offer modern, large-volume vehicles in North America with cylinder deactivation -- the HEMI-powered 2005 Chrysler 300C and Dodge Magnum R/T went on sale in the of spring 2004 with the Chrysler Group Multi-Displacement System, or MDS. Chrysler Group was also the first to offer cylinder deactivation in an SUV with the introduction of MDS in the 2005 HEMI-powered Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee. Chrysler Group is the first to offer MDS in a pickup truck -- the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500.

MDS is a fuel-saving technology that is here today -- customers get the power and capability of the HEMI V-8 that they desire with the fuel economy of a less powerful engine.

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