Chrysler group to introduce new diesel pickup after 2009

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- The Chrysler group said today it will introduce a new turbodiesel engine in its Dodge light duty pickups after 2009.

The new Cummins Inc. clean diesel technology for the Dodge Ram 1500 will provide up to 30 percent better fuel economy and a 20 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared with a conventional gasoline engine, the automaker said.

The diesel design will meet emissions standards of all 50 U.S. states for 2010, the company said.

In Europe, diesel-powered models account for more than half of Chrysler group sales. Dodge is the Chrysler group's best-selling brand in the United States.