Mechanically, it is the concept's 7.2-L, direct-injection, inline, six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that attracts attention. It generates 1058 N•m (780 lb•ft) of torque, compared to the production Dodge Ram's 8.0-L V10 gasoline engine's 610 N•m (450 lb•ft).

With the development of new fuels, fueling and combustion systems, and advanced exhaust aftertreatment technologies, diesels could power the "green" cars and trucks of tomorrow, according to DaimlerChrysler. The company is pursuing research with Tulsa-based Syntroleum Corp. to test new sulfur-free "designer" fuels synthesized from natural gas. The company is also working with researchers at Pacific Northwest Laboratories on a new plasma-based scrubber that destroys NOx with high voltage.