The Chrysler Airflow concept might 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 unique identify and styling in response to directives from CEO Christine Feuell, in line with a brand new Motor Trend report.
The Airflow idea was first proven on the 2022 CES, with an updated version showing on the 2022 New York auto present later that yr. A patent application for the design surfaced in 2022 as nicely, however since then it seems Chrysler has gone in a unique path.
Chrysler Airflow idea
Feuell, who took over as head of Chrysler in 2021, wished the manufacturing mannequin to go in a unique path from the Airflow idea, styling-wise, Stellantis design boss Ralph Gilles mentioned in an interview with Motor Development. Feuell instructed the journal that the revised design carried out nicely in buyer clinics held in Los Angeles earlier this yr, including that the manufacturing crossover retains a few of the idea’s aesthetics, however with a extra trendy general design.
One other modernizing contact is the nixing of the Airflow identify, which originated with Chrysler’s revolutionary aerodynamic models of the Nineteen Thirties. In keeping with 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 instructed 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 Giant platform, considered one of four dedicated EV architectures for use in upcoming Stellantis electrical fashions. It was at all times possible that Chrysler’s EV would use one of many new devoted architectures, nonetheless, reasonably 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 programs for quick charging, in addition to standard-range and long-range battery choices, the latter focusing on as much as 400 miles of vary. Count on a number of tech options just like what Chrysler previewed at the 2023 CES as nicely, together with an infotainment system that « learns » proprietor preferences and a Level 3 driver-assist system.
The electrical crossover remains to be scheduled to launch in 2025, and can reportedly be adopted by a bigger three-row mannequin. In keeping with a 2022 report, a Chrysler electric sedan can be within the works, however it will not arrive till 2028.
