By Jon Ruhrold
Despite the growing market for electric vehicles, the industry has almost exclusively limited development of hybrid and fully battery-powered automobiles to the sedan category. This is likely due to the fact that their light weight and aerodynamic design allow for power to be utilized more efficiently, making it simpler for developers to create vehicles that can compete with traditional gas-powered cars. Few manufacturers have been bold enough to attempt to create an electric SUV, truck, or minivan, and those that have typically have created a motor that acts more as an assistant to the regular engine than as a replacement.
Chrysler, however, is working to change that with the 2017 Pacifica Hybrid, America’s first hybrid minivan. The hybrid is not an achievement in name alone, Chrysler’s exceptional engineering assures that it is highly functional. By analyzing the daily commute of minivan drivers and tailoring the vehicle's design to best fit users’ needs, Chrysler made the most of the Pacifica Hybrid’s 16-kWh lithium ion battery. The van features a 33 mile fully-electric range per charge, and 83MPGe when using battery and gasoline power in tandem. Matt McAlear, senior manager for Chrysler’s brand product marketing, commented that, “Families could quite possibly go months without having to go to the gas station.” The hybrid uses analytic software to constantly monitor fuel consumption and determine the highest efficiency power option for each moment spent driving. This way, drivers be even less likely to run out of fuel than if they were in a traditional vehicle.
In addition to its impressive efficiency the minivan features seating for seven, an 8.4 inch Uconnect touchscreen, and a companion smartphone application that allows you to access driving records and locate charging stations. The 2017 Pacifica Hybrid is available now and starts at $41,995. Certain Pacifica Hybrid drivers may qualify for up to a $7,500 federal tax credit as well, giving yet another reason to get behind the wheel of the revolutionary vehicle.
Chrysler, however, is working to change that with the 2017 Pacifica Hybrid, America’s first hybrid minivan. The hybrid is not an achievement in name alone, Chrysler’s exceptional engineering assures that it is highly functional. By analyzing the daily commute of minivan drivers and tailoring the vehicle's design to best fit users’ needs, Chrysler made the most of the Pacifica Hybrid’s 16-kWh lithium ion battery. The van features a 33 mile fully-electric range per charge, and 83MPGe when using battery and gasoline power in tandem. Matt McAlear, senior manager for Chrysler’s brand product marketing, commented that, “Families could quite possibly go months without having to go to the gas station.” The hybrid uses analytic software to constantly monitor fuel consumption and determine the highest efficiency power option for each moment spent driving. This way, drivers be even less likely to run out of fuel than if they were in a traditional vehicle.
In addition to its impressive efficiency the minivan features seating for seven, an 8.4 inch Uconnect touchscreen, and a companion smartphone application that allows you to access driving records and locate charging stations. The 2017 Pacifica Hybrid is available now and starts at $41,995. Certain Pacifica Hybrid drivers may qualify for up to a $7,500 federal tax credit as well, giving yet another reason to get behind the wheel of the revolutionary vehicle.