Chrysler 200C EV Concept
This should’ve been obvious. We know Chrysler’s electrified drivetrain is winding its way through its model line. We also know Chrysler’s been developing a new, mid-sized sedan. But the automaker’s ENVI dog and pony show provided enough bright orange smoke (thanks to the Circuit EV) to distract us until the 2009 NAIAS, where it promptly removed the ace from its sleeve in the form of the Chrysler 200C EV Concept.
It works in a similar fashion to GM’s Voltec system, with an electric motor as the primary source of power and a gasoline engine acting as a range extender.
At the show, the 200C was introduced with a 268-hp electric motor and a two-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine. Chrysler claims the combination is good for sub-seven second 0-to-60 mph acceleration. While the ENVI system sounds great, it’s still several years away at best, and Chrysler has hinted that if produced the 200C could first come to market with a traditional gas engine on board. Although the 300C-sourced platform is V-8 capable, the packaging and design constraints of the 200C reportedly won’t allow one. If a non-ENVI 200C indeed hits the market, it would reportedly receive power from the automaker’s new Phoenix V-6.
Chrysler shortened the rear-drive LX platform by four inches for the 200C, and though the exterior is new, some shadows of the 300C remain. This should be expected and it’s not a bad thing by any means. Recently promoted VP of Chrysler design Ralph Gilles oversaw both vehicles.
Instead, Chrysler employed a future vision of its highly-touted UConnect multimedia system, a touch-screen interface which controls everything on the 200C.
Not the standard “everything” such as radio and HVAC vehicle systems, but “everything” like a navigation system capable of monitoring traffic cameras; a personal and transportable tablet computer; a Facebook-esque networking and music sharing system; a link to the home or office phone; even parental control over the vehicle’s top speed.
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