18/1/2009 - Chrysler 200C EV

Chrysler 200C EV

 













Using the electric drive system developed by Chrysler's ENVI group, the range-extended 200C EV Concept promises a 400-mile range, with 40 of those possible on 100 percent electric power. As you might think, the 200C is a playground for techno-geeks, featuring goodies like a “panoramic multimedia touch screen,” which takes the place of all switches, levers or rotary knobs and can be customized down to the desktop background.Even the front seat passenger gets a piece of Chrysler’s next generation uconnect infotainment system, via a stowable tablet PC that motorizes down from the dash, and on a touch-screen “techno-leaf” or remote that is mounted in the passenger armrest. The techno-leaf manages everything from volume to gauge choices, while incorporating personal climate controls and a separate “personal” infotainment system. There’s even a charging pad under the dashboard that will charge anything from a cell phone to a PC.The 200C might sport the most technologically advanced interior at the Detroit show, but perhaps the best (and most surprising) news is that it’s actually quite good looking, based on a shortened version of Chrysler’s rear-wheel drive platform. Designers tell us that the 200C’s sweptback nose and “wind-cheating shape” allow it to make even better use of the ENVI drivetrain, maximizing range. The front fascia itself is said to be a modern interpretation of the Chrysler badge, while smallish LED headlights and taillights minimize the scale, making the car appear to have smaller overhangs than it actually does. Exactly how the 20-inch wheels fit into the economy picture is something you’ll have to ask Chrysler yourself.

 









The interior is loaded with organic materials and has been designed to be open and spacious, featuring LED lighting and what Chrysler is calling a “60/60” front seat split. So your brain doesn’t explode, that means it’s roomy. “If occupants are given the choice to take the short or long route home, I want the interior to inspire them to choose the long way,” said Ryan Patrick Joyce, lead interior designer for the 200C. Great, but isn’t that uneconomical?The drive system is essentially a single electric motor, a gas engine and a lithium-ion battery. The 200C plugs into any 110-volt outlet, and you can cut your charge time in half by using a 220-volt unit. The powertrain is said to propel the 200C to 60 mph in “about” seven seconds.While questions remain as to whether we’ll see the 200C on public roads, you can be sure this car is an accurate representation of the company’s future plans.