Add Dodge to the list of car companies planning to equip diesel-powered trucks with an expensive emissions system to meet stringent federal regulations that take effect Jan. 1.
Frank Klegon, the Chrysler group's executive vice president for product development, said heavy-duty diesel Rams sold next year will have a diesel particulate filter and oxides of nitrogen adsorber. The two items in the exhaust system reduce the amount of oxides of nitrogen, a precursor to smog, and soot, a suspected cause of cancer.
| 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is shown
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Dodge plans to make a running change during the model year. Ram diesels built before Jan. 1 will have the same emissions system as 2006 models. Starting in January, the Ram will have the new system – and probably a higher price.
The particulate filter, which contains precious metals, would likely cost an automaker $600 to $800, according to one supplier familiar with diesel truck emissions systems.
Following suit
General Motors, Ford Motor Co. and Dodge are revamping their diesel pickups to meet the EPA regulations. All the trucks will have the new diesel particulate filters.
Putting the filter on the engines in today's diesel trucks would cause a drop in performance and economy. The particulate filter forces the engine to work harder to push the exhaust through to the tailpipes.
