The first electric Chrysler car will be available in 2025. Every Chrysler will also be EV-only by 2028.
CES 2022 may only be partially virtual but automakers continue to plan for the future. The Chrysler Airflow design is a sign of Stellantis’ American premium brand. It will launch its first battery-electric vehicle by 2025, and then go all-electric by 2028. Although the Airflow is likely to presage a production model it also previews Chrysler’s future in EV propulsion as well as Level 3 driver assistance.
The Airflow crossover is a preview of the future design language of Chrysler. It will likely replace the 300’s slender, upright face with something more sleek and shapely. The new Chrysler comes with a wide range of connectivity features that will allow its occupants to manage other aspects of their lives, such as home security, shopping lists, video conference calls, and even personal computer networks.
Future-Proofed Power
A robust, EV platform is the first step in Chrysler’s march towards electrification. Stellantis’ new, battery-specific architecture called STLA (spelling “Stella”) is the perfect solution for the Airflow concept. Chrysler anticipates that the Airflow will be based on the STLA Medium platform, which is suitable for crossovers and mid-sized cars. It can travel between 350 and 400 miles (or 643 and 563 kilometers). Two 150-watt (201-horsepower), electric drive modules (EDMs), give the Airflow all-wheel drive. They combine the motor and geartrain into one package. Between the two EDMs, the Airflow is likely to have around 400 ponies.
According to the automaker, the platform can also accept larger power units. This makes the possibility of a more powerful vehicle more probable – SRT lovers, take note. Stellantis also stated in July’s EV Day that all future power modules will be compatible with 400-volt technology. The flagship EDM is built on an 800-volt architecture. The Airflow is likely to be the standard bearer of Chysler’s electrification plans. The automaker did not provide any details about the battery that powers the electric motors.
Technology To Spare
However, Chrysler was quite vague about the Airflow’s technology package. Stellantis’ STLA Brain electronic/electrical architecture is featured on the concept car. This combines hardware and software to maximize the vehicle’s life span. This means that the Chrysler Airflow can be updated over-the-air to keep its technology and user interface current, at least theoretically.
STLA SmartCockpit is a brain-based architecture that features individual screens for each occupant. These screens offer connected entertainment, apps and e-commerce. It’s great for ordering to-go from restaurants, parking near you, and stocking up on groceries and household supplies. Each screen has its own camera which is great for video calls and conference calling on the go. The Airflow’s last technological trick makes it all the more concerning to include that feature in the driver’s seat.
Through a partnership with BMW the Chrysler Airflow concept features STLA AutoDrive technology. This Level 3 driver-assistance suite can be used in situations like limited-access highway or freeway driving. The Level 3 autonomy system is more advanced than any other currently available in the US. It allows the driver to keep their eyes on the road and to use their hands to play games or catch up with others.
Soft-Spoken Style
According to Chrysler, the Airflow concept’s quiet propulsion and low environmental impact inspired Chrysler’s designers to adopt a similar styling approach. It’s an elegant, aerodynamic flagship that is a significant departure from the blocky 300. The Airflow’s 22-inch wheels and long track give it a modern, well-placed stance. Thanks to a low center of gravity and that wheels-at-the-corners layout, Chrysler says the Airflow will offer excellent handling and performance, though we doubt it will challenge the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 or Porsche Taycan too much.
The Airflow looks slimmer and more sleeker with a two-tone roof, dark Celestial blue exterior accents and a white body. The illuminated Chrysler wing emblem is connected to the LED headlamps via a wide light strip running across the beveled grille panel. A matching single taillight at the rear highlights the Airflow’s broad stance. When the Airflow is charged, it lights in aqua and activates when locking or unlocking.
Lounge Chairs
The Chrysler Airflow concept, like many modern EVs – such as the Hyundai Iniq 5 or Genesis GV60 – uses its battery-specific platform for a relaxed and relaxing interior. The Airflow’s floor has no driveshaft, which means there is no tunnel in the middle. The door panels have flowing design forms, and the passenger and driver interfaces are hidden under dark panes. This gives the Airflow a minimalist feel. The drive selector and other controls have modern, technical appearances thanks to crystalized textures.
Pedestal-style mounts are used on the front and rear seats to increase toe room. They also reduce claustrophobia when combined with the full glass roof. The front seats are separated by a floating console. There is plenty of storage under the bridge for backpacks and purses. The Airflow is a large transportation pod that can transport four people. A low-profile armrest sits between the bucket seats in the back. Production cars will likely include a rear bench. The sliding cargo floor makes loading easier. The Airflow, although Chrysler would not say how many passengers or luggage it can carry, looks like a comfortable place to spend your time.
What’s Next?
Chrysler will be the leader in Stellantis’ EV ambitions in America, a significant change from the last year’s rumors about the brand being on the chopping block. It will be the first new product by Chrysler in approximately ten years, likely to be the Airflow concept. This is possible thanks to its feasible lighting, mirror and bumper designs. Three years later, all of Chrysler’s products will be electric – far more than Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota and even premium brands like Audi and Volvo .
This feat is less impressive when you consider that the current Chrysler lineup only includes two products: the Pacifica van (and its functionally identical Volyager derivative) as well as the old 300 sedan. We expect that the brand’s first EV will arrive in 2025. The minivan family, which is already a profitable one, will then be able to transition to pure battery power. We expect many more EV concepts to come from Stellantis’ brand family, including some tempting long-range pickups, and SUVs, built on the STLA Frame platform.