Chrysler CEO Christine Feuell has reaffirmed the brand’s intention to introduce its inaugural EV based on the STLA platform by 2025. The two-row, all-electric crossover will be the start of a renaissance for the brand. Feuell added that the upcoming model will draw some inspiration from the Airflow concept unveiled in 2022. Nonetheless, as we have previously noted, there will be notable differences between the upcoming model and the concept.
While the design cues hinted at by the Airflow concept are not being entirely discarded, the CEO did task Stellantis Chief Design Officer, Ralph Gilles, with crafting a distinctive and attention-grabbing vehicle for for Chrysler.
Read: Chrysler’s Design Boss Ralph Gilles Explains How Airflow EV Concept Will Evolve
Earlier this year, Gilles said that the design concepts previewed by the Airflow “will evolve as we push the thesis even more.” He called the initial concept “just the beginning of the story,” and said in May that the initial feedback to the upcoming model was overwhelmingly positive.
While the upcoming vehicle will draw inspiration from the Airflow concept, it is unlikely to bear the same name. Earlier this year, the CEO mentioned that the company was exploring several names, some rooted in the brand’s historical lineup and others entirely fresh. She did, however, emphasize that the chosen nameplate would not follow the alphanumeric naming convention.
Whatever it’s called, the new model will be based on the STLA Large architecture. Stellantis anticipates that the platform will be good for up to 400 miles (644 km) of range per charge, while 800-volt fast-charging will help it tackle longer road trips.
A new sedan on the horizon?
In addition to confirming the launch of Chrysler’s two-row crossover in 2025, Feuell also provided some insights into the rest of the lineup during a conference held by Reuters. She mentioned that the automaker is contemplating the addition of a new sedan to its lineup now that the 300 is being phased out. Furthermore, she indicated that the brand intends to keep offering the Pacifica minivan with a hybrid powertrain “through the end of [the] decade.”
On top of its vehicles, Feuell is spearheading efforts to transform the way customers engage with the brand. She mentioned that Chrysler is currently in the testing phase of a digital “customer experience” website that allows buyers to configure, place orders, and arrange the delivery of new vehicles. The brand is also experimenting with the use of artificial intelligence in its customer support call centers.
