Maximizing MPG with MDS

Tips from the Chrysler Group on Getting the Most Fuel Savings with Its Multi-Displacement System

Truck Trend - -

Chrysler Group has offered the following simple tips to help owners of engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) get the most fuel mileage possible from their 5.7L HEMI V-8 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.

• Keep speeds to 65 mph or below -- MDS uses four cylinder mode most at these speeds
• Use cruise control o 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 V-8 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 o 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 JeepAE Grand Cherokee. Chrysler Group is the first to offer MDS in a pickup truck o the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500.

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