2009 HB/HG Aspen/Durango HEV Supplement

60 STARTING AND OPERATING
NEUTRAL
Shift to NEUTRAL when vehicle is standing for prolonged
periods with engine running. Engine may be
started in this range. Set the parking brake if you must
leave the vehicle.
NOTE: Towing the vehicle (except as specified under
Towing A Disabled Vehicle), coasting, or otherwise driving
the vehicle while in NEUTRAL can cause severe
transmission damage.
DRIVE
For most city and highway driving.
“2” SECOND
For driving on mountain roads where more precise speed
control is desirable. Use it also when climbing long
grades, and for engine braking when descending moderately
steep grades. To prevent excessive engine speed do
not exceed 45 mph (72 km/h) in this range.
NOTE: When operating in “2” SECOND the gasoline
engine will start and/or remain running.
“1” FIRST
For driving up very steep hills and for engine braking at
low speeds 25 mph (40 km/h) or less when going
downhill. To prevent excessive engine speed do not
exceed 25 mph (40 km/h) in this range.
NOTE: When operating in “1” FIRST the gasoline
engine will start and/or remain running.
Drive Operation
The AHS-T HEV automatic transmission contains two
electric motors and four fixed gear ratios. The transmission
will select one of the four fixed gear ratios, or
operate an electrically variable transmission (EVT) to
maximize fuel economy when the following conditions
are present:
• the transmission shift lever is in DRIVE;