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Dodge PowerBox

Dodge PowerBox

Announced: 2001 Los Angeles auto show
High-tech applications: Compressed natural gas engine plus an electric motor

The Dodge PowerBox concept was a "near-zero" emissions concept. Its design cues live on, in the Dodge Durango. Despite the concept's aggressive SUV package, it met Super Ultra Low-Emissions Vehicle standards. Its hybrid powertrain featured a supercharged V6 that ran on compressed natural gas (CNG), with an electric motor that kicked in for acceleration and passing. It got 60% better fuel economy than a conventional Durango. However, that was still only 25 mpg, the company said. CNG vehicles never have caught on in numbers. However, the CNG-powered 2008 Honda Civic GX gets you access to High-Occupancy Vehicle lanes in Los Angeles.