Chrysler Charges Into EV Market

Chrysler LLC's Unexpected Recent unveiling of three fully operable electric vehicles, with a salable version from the trio by 2010, may have shocked the industry, but experts warn time is not on its side.

“I'm stunned, surprised. It's one of the industry's best-kept secrets,” says Aaron Bragman, an analyst at Global Insight. But, he adds, “The question is, can Chrysler last long enough to get this technology to market?”

Like its cross-town rivals, Chrysler's sales have been under siege this year by rising oil prices, the collapse of the U.S. housing market and ensuing fall of Wall Street lending firms the government now is propping up.

Vice Chairman and President Tom LaSorda dismisses suggestions the auto maker lacks the financial strength to push an EV to market.

Chrysler Chairman and CEO Robert Nardelli told the cable television network CNBC the auto maker continues to meet its financial targets, with a keen focus on improving productivity.

Some experts say the combination of dwindling oil reserves and rising demand in both developed nations and emerging markets will continue to drive up global prices, which would create further economic malaise and keep the average American from being able to afford an EV.

Frank Klegon, executive vice president-product development, says Chrysler configured the propulsion system of the two extended-range electric vehicles in the trio to make the cars more affordable.

The Chrysler Town & Country minivan and extended-wheelbase Jeep Wrangler both use a lithium-ion battery for 40 miles (64 km) of emissions-free, zero fuel-consumption travel. After 40 miles, a small gasoline engine powers a generator to produce electricity and deliver up to 360 more miles (579 km) of range.

Chrysler also pulled the wraps off a Dodge performance car, which will operate on electricity only. The 2-passenger, rear-wheel-drive sports car has a continuous driving range of 150-200 miles (241-322 km) — more than triple the average daily commute of most consumers.