Stellantis to launch new hybrid combustion engines for its top-of-the-range models

At the same time, the Group's electrification strategy is advancing at different speeds in different markets, Stellantis is preparing new powertrains for its top-of-the-range models. According to our information, the Group is now preparing to launch hybrid versions of its GME 2.0L and 3.0L combustion engines, particularly on models based on the STLA Large platform.

Hybrid combustion engines for Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo and Chrysler?

According to our information, Stellantis is actively working with ZF Group, the German transmission giant, to use an 8-speed hybrid automatic gearbox for the STLA Large platform, which will equip the group's top-of-the-range vehicles. While no official confirmation has yet been given of the models concerned, the Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo and Chrysler brands are directly targeted.

According to our information, this future transmission, which could be ZF 8P4G, would be able to handle the hybridization of existing combustion engines, notably the 2.0L GME and 3.0L GME. This technological choice is not surprising: Stellantis has been working with ZF for many years on its top-of-the-range models. For example, the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio 2.0L GME petrol models already use the ZF 8HP automatic gearbox. This is also the case for the Jeep Wrangler PHEV, equipped with a hybrid version of the ZF 8-speed, or the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, equipped with a 3.0L GME coupled to the ZF 8HP75.

A response to the slowdown in electric car sales

This decision to intensify the range of hybrid combustion engines is also explained by a commercial reality: in 2024, Stellantis sales fell by 7 % in the United States, its biggest market in terms of sales. The momentum of electric vehicles is slower than expected, and customers are still very attached to powerful combustion engines.

It was against this backdrop that we learned that Stellantis studied the possibility of doubling Hurricane engine productionproduced in Saltillo, Mexico, from 250,000 to 500,000 units per year. A strong strategic decision, reinforced by the planned relaunch of HEMI V8 engines, to be produced from the third quarter of 2025 in Michigan.

It remains to be seen which models will be affected

The combination of GME blocks and ZF's new hybrid automatic gearbox promises powerful, yet less polluting, top-of-the-range models.

This choice could breathe new life into the Dodge Charger/Challenger, Jeep Grand Cherokee/Wagoneer, Alfa Romeo Stelvio and future Giulia ranges.

For the moment, no official announcement has been made as to which models will benefit from this hybrid powertrain. But there's every reason to believe that future STLA Large models will offer a hybrid version based on GME blocks, either as an option or as standard. This strategy is consistent with recent statements by John ElkannPresident of Stellantis, who said he wanted to ". launch the right models, with the right engines, at the right time" .