Posted by Henry Jacobs on January 05, 1999 at 10:37:49:
In Reply to: Re: YUK!!!! I concur posted by Jim Ferguson on January 05, 1999 at 09:39:55:
I suspect that DCC's (Daimler Chrysler Corporation) philosophy here is to create more of a sports car shaped like a truck than a real working truck. The engine choice is a bit of a puzzle here since it adds a lot of cost in materials and engineering and does not seem to be consistant with the likely uses of the concept as presented. A gasoline engine would go fast and have enough power for most applications. I can't imagine the concept truck presented being used to tow anything of any size since it lacks dual rear wheels and high load range tires. I guess that DDC's judgement is that the target buyer treats his truck as more of a hobby than a tool or necessity and will spend disposable income on whatever seems cool. This market segment will demand the refinements of fine sports cars or luxury SUV's, hence the "rich Corinthian leather" or whatever. You can expect a laptop port, cup holders, and a child seat attachement as well. In sum, this truck seems not to be intended as a work truck but, rather, as a plaything for wealthy playfolk.
Regarding the engine, I concur that the CAT 3126 is the most likely candidate, however, keep in mind that it will be extensively reworked for this project to meet production and government regulatory requirements. Note that a special diesel fuel forulation is currently contemplated. The government is currently very anti-diesel and CAT and Cummins recent problems with allegedly falsifying emissions data (and payment of record fines and penalties) did not help that situation.
HLJ