Based on a shortened version of Chrysler's existing rear-wheel-drive platform, the 200C EV is a performance sedan in a package that is also environmentally friendly. Sending drive to the rear wheels is a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which features a 268hp (200kW) electric motor running on lithium-ion batteries as the primary power source. Once the batteries start getting depleted, a compact internal combustion engine kicks in and is used to charge them.
In this way, the vehicle is capable of driving up to 40 miles on battery-only power – using zero fuel and producing zero tailpipe emissions – and can cover more than 400 miles when using the petrol engine as well.
The end result is a claimed 0-60mph time of approximately seven seconds and a standing quarter-mile time in the mid-14 seconds. Top speed is in excess of 120mph.
While the concept’s powertrain has already been showcased in a number of different vehicles, such as the Jeep Patriot EV, which is also on show in Detroit, the 200C EV concept is also a preview of Chrysler’s new design language.
The front fascia is a modern interpretation of the winged Chrysler badge, and its new grille continues to shape and evolve Chrysler's brand identity. The headlamps and taillamps are highly detailed and add to the vehicle’s organic form. New LED detailing is also used throughout.
For the interior, designers have looked to nature for inspiration. Leaf green LED lighting and stitching accentuates the organic form once again, and is joined by a palette of natural colors including pearl, graphite and leaf green for the trim.
Immediately noticeable upon entry is the large screen located on the instrument panel. Starting the vehicle activates the electronic instrument panel that contains an advanced electronic vehicle information center. This is a preview of the next generation of Chrysler's uconnect infotainment system and a compound touch surface.
The compound touch surface is a touch screen that serves as the hub for the vehicle's connectivity system. Using it, the driver is able to move images, select infotainment choices and customize images, backgrounds, mood, volume and lighting by simply touching the screen itself.
The first-row passenger has access to a techno-leaf that houses personal climate controls and an infotainment system. A simple touch to the smooth glass surface deploys a personal touch screen computer from the glove box. Users can surf the Internet, scroll through their personal media library, schedule vehicle maintenance or send directions to the driver. The compartment located below the techno-leaf is a charging station for personal mobile devices. Electronic devices can be charged by simply laying the unit on the charging pad. Rear passengers have access to a similar charging compartment under the cantilevered front-console arm rest.
Chrysler wasn’t willing to confirm if the 200C was headed for production, as either a hybrid or a conventional sedan, however, its styling is likely to feature on the carmaker’s new ‘Project D’ midsize global sedan that is currently in development.
Reader Comments
Sun Jan 11 2009 8:16 PM
NoNameDenton says
Guess Chrysler is serious about working on their designs, great job on this one.
Sun Jan 11 2009 8:44 PM
Chris says
yeah i second that.. it looks great. is this the new midsized platform? cause if the sebring actually looked like that.. it might actually sell. if the interior was actually good.. even in comparison to american makes.. it would sell. dont make it exclusively electric. make this mass market. and maybe there would be a hope.
Sun Jan 11 2009 8:48 PM
NoNameDenton says
Chris, from what I read it is a shortened rwd platform from the Charger/300/Challenger, but can be used eventually as a fwd platform according to some sources.
Sun Jan 11 2009 9:10 PM
NoNameDenton says
Heard this is the next gen version of the rwd platform.
Mon Jan 12 2009 6:51 AM
InkMaster says
I would personally love to see them replace the Sebring with this. While this isn't perfect, its infinitely better then the crap they currently sell.
Also would be nice to see them update the PT Cruiser with something similarly styled to this -- rather then killing it completely as they plan to.
Mon Jan 12 2009 3:39 PM
axial66 says
Well, this is by far in large one of the most attractive and well conceived and proportionally perfect designs I have seen at the show. That and the Audi Sportback. Same on MB with their all new E class. It is truly ugly. Yes ugly.
I would buy this in a heart beat if they came out with the EV version.
Mon Jan 12 2009 3:39 PM
axial66 says
Means to say, SHAME ON MB.
Mon Jan 12 2009 4:29 PM
mburleigh8 says
Looks pretty good, hope it works.
Mon Jan 12 2009 4:35 PM
NoNameDenton says
InkMaster ditto, this would be a great Sebring replacment, especially with the hard top convertible.
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