The Chrysler Airflow idea might now not be the template for the model’s first manufacturing EV.
Chrysler’s first EV will nonetheless be a two-row crossover just like the Airflow idea, however with a distinct identify and styling in response to directives from CEO Christine Feuell, based on a brand new Motor Development report.
The Airflow idea was first proven on the 2022 CES, with an up to date model showing on the 2022 New York auto present later that 12 months. A patent software for the design surfaced in 2022 as nicely, however since then it seems Chrysler has gone in a distinct route.
Chrysler Airflow idea
Feuell, who took over as head of Chrysler in 2021, needed the manufacturing mannequin to go in a distinct route from the Airflow idea, styling-wise, Stellantis design boss Ralph Gilles stated in an interview with Motor Development. Feuell informed the journal that the revised design carried out nicely in buyer clinics held in Los Angeles earlier this 12 months, including that the manufacturing crossover retains among the idea’s aesthetics, however with a extra trendy total design.
One other modernizing contact is the nixing of the Airflow identify, which originated with Chrysler’s revolutionary aerodynamic fashions of the Thirties. Based on Motor Development, Chrysler is taking a look at a shortlist of other names, together with some new and a few recycled legacy names. A brand new identify is reportedly extra possible as Chrysler strikes to reinvent itself, however Feuell informed Motor Development an alphanumeric mixture is out, and the electrical crossover will not take the Chrysler 300 identify from the soon-to-be-discontinued sedan.
The Airflow idea was constructed off the RU platform that underpins the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, however Motor Development experiences the manufacturing electrical crossover will use the STLA Massive platform, one in every of 4 devoted EV architectures for use in upcoming Stellantis electrical fashions. It was all the time possible that Chrysler’s EV would use one of many new devoted architectures, nevertheless, moderately than a carryover platform shared with internal-combustion fashions.
Chrysler Airflow idea
Chrysler reportedly plans to supply variations with each 400-volt and 800-volt electrical techniques for quick charging, in addition to standard-range and long-range battery choices, the latter concentrating on as much as 400 miles of vary. Count on a bunch of tech options just like what Chrysler previewed on the 2023 CES as nicely, together with an infotainment system that “learns” proprietor preferences and a Stage 3 driver-assist system.
The electrical crossover continues to be scheduled to launch in 2025, and can reportedly be adopted by a bigger three-row mannequin. Based on a 2022 report, a Chrysler electrical sedan can also be within the works, nevertheless it will not arrive till 2028.
