Chrysler Plans Green Concepts for Detroit Show

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North American Int’l Auto Show

Chrysler LLC plans to make an environmental splash at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show in January with three small electric-powered concept vehicles.

The Chrysler ’08 ecoVoyager Concept combines an elegant and simple design with a powerplant that leverages a lithium-ion battery pack and a small hydrogen fuel cell for a range extender. Although their names are similar, the concept is nothing like the former Plymouth Voyager minivan that, along with the brand, was phased out in 2000.

Instead, the ecoVoyager is a 4-passenger sedan that can travel up to 300 miles (483 km) without spewing tailpipe emissions other than water vapor.

The ’08 Dodge Zeo Concept is a 4-passenger wagon that embraces the brand’s muscle-car look, while drawing power from a lithium-ion battery pack with a range of about 250 miles (402 km). The car is capable of 0-to-60 mph (97 km/h) in less than 6 seconds.

The ’08 Jeep Renegade Concept rounds out the threesome. The B-segment 2-seater is suited for off-roading, with its 4-wheel-drive capability, roll bar and hose-out interior. The propulsion system combines a Li-ion battery with a small-displacement Bluetech diesel engine that boasts fuel economy of at least 110 mpg (2.1 L/100 km).

Chrysler’s revelation comes on the heels of last week’s unveiling of the auto maker’s first hybrid-electric vehicles – the Dodge Durango Hybrid and Chrysler Aspen Hybrid. Both are fullsize SUVs.

<i>From left:</i> Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept, Dodge Zeo Concept, Jeep Renegade Concept

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