What is it? Chrysler presented prototypes of extended-range and pure-electric vehicles to demonstrate the technology applications developed by the in-house ENVI group (short for "environmental"). Simply put, the powertrains consist of an electric motor, lithium-ion battery, and a controller that manages energy flow. As demonstrated by the prototypes, the electric-drive system is being developed for front-, rear-, and four-wheel-drive applications.

What is new or notable: Chrysler claims this EV technology could provide 40 miles of pure-electric range in the Town & Country minivan, with a small gasoline-fueled engine able to extend the range to 400 miles using just eight gallons of gas. The Town & Country has a 255-horsepower-equivalent motor, and a reported 0-60 mph time of nine seconds.

CR's take: It is clear that a plurality of solutions is on the near horizon, and electricity will play a key role.

Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z

Previous

Back to main page

Next