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Stellantis (FCA) US Future Vehicle Plans ??

113K views 383 replies 3 participants last post by  rickaren 
#1 · (Edited)
This page is being updated as new information is revealed.

Chrysler's five year plan is being unveiled, with a limited-entry webcast on Chrysler LLC's corporate web site, constant updates at Automotive News, and frequent updates here at allpar.com. The plan will take around five hours to describe. The agenda: Dodge Brand, Quality, Product Development, Powertrain, RAM Trucks, Jeep, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Dealers, Canada, Mexico, International, Mopar, Chrysler Brand, Product Plan, Financial Plan Review, Summary, Q&A, Closing

KEY NOTES




* Journey, Caravan, Avenger: new engine, new interiors, exterior refreshing
* 2014: all new Grand Caravan
* New C-sedan, B-hatch, D-car, 7-passenger crossover
* Repackaging around lifestyles rather than ... whatever they were using before
* Possibly, new Viper for 2013/2014
* Quality improvements will continue and extend to dealer service




Chrysler Engineering will be expanded from June 2009 to July 2010, with contract workers doubled, a 7% increase in direct employees, and a doubling of purchased engineering services.

Chrysler itself will be a global center of expertise for hybrid and large displacement engines. Fiat, which has partnered with Cummins in the past, will be a global center of excellence for diesels.

Engines. Fiat technologies, including smaller turbo engines, MultiAir, start/stop systems, and direct injection will be added rapidly. The World Engines (2.0 and 2.4 liters) will gain MultiAir and direct injection, as will the Pentastar V6. Fiat’s dual-clutch transmission will be used by Chrysler. Pentastar V6 will launch in the second quarter of 2010. A twin turbo version of the Pentastar V6 will be launched as will a single-turbo version. V8 efficiency will be increased.

Transmissions. The four speed automatic will be phased out, the six-speed improved, and the Fiat C635 dual clutch will be phased in progressively. New ZF axles will be made in Marysville starting in Q2 2010. New automatics for rear-drive cars are being sought.

Dodge. The plan is for a complete repackaging of all Dodge cars, with new options mixes, by the end of the fourth quarter of 2009. A complete overhaul of branding, marketing, positioning, and point of sale is to be completed by the end second quarter of 2010. The car and truck brands are being separated to “amplify the youthfulness of the Dodge brand.” Cars will have a base, mid, high, and sport level. SRT will continue as the “ultimate performance sport” level. Scott Kunselman, head of engineering, said Chrysler will more than double volume per platform by 2014.

Vehicle development (engineering). Future projects will use more resources up front, fewer at the end, and will bring vehicles to market within 16 months. A new benchmarking process establishes 320 functional measurements and benchmarks the best competition — similar to the pre-Daimler process but more detailed, with targets set and physical achievement confirmed as the project continues. Results will be confirmed by a new quality group representing the customer rather by the involved engineers. Gas mileage will be increased by cutting weight and improving aerodynamics (the Ram was cited for its best in class aerodynamics.) Time to market will be cut as the S0 build phase is dropped, due to the use of virtual tools and prototypes. More parallel activities will cut time, too. A disciplined design freeze should reduce time to market, as will early supplier involvement — a hallmark of Chrysler’s own renaissance of the 1990s.

Sharing. Increased sharing with Fiat will result in increased quality (due to use of tested components), decreased cost and time to market. The primary sharing will be in modules/systems, followed by powertrain (with V6 engines from Chrysler and four-cylinders from Fiat), and then by components. 20-30% of vehicle cost will be in model/brand differentiated components. Chrysler’s Powernet electrical architecture will be used for E-class vehicles, Fiat’s for C/D vehicles.

CATIA. Chrysler will start using a proprietary automated computer technology for structure optimization (it is currently using CATIA). Alternate materials such as high-strength steel, aluminum, and magnesium will be used for weight reduction.

Quality. Doug Betts said that Chrysler was not effectively organized, and that new launches had below average quality, with an overall inadequate rate of improvement. He did however note that action was taken starting in late 2007. Changing corporate monthly meetings from boardroom style to hands-on style started in March 2008 to show leaders the issues. Merging all quality functions into one organization was completed early this year. 200 people are now working together on one master plan. Internal metrics and targets were changed to more accurate figures, as of January 2008; cross-functional warranty reduction teams were set up by January 2008. Reliability fell in model-year 2007 but has recovered. 200 plant engineers were added to help with quality issues. Reliance on JD Power SSI/CSI based surveys has been replaced with the Customer Promoter Survey which is faster and has more clarity (as of January 2009).

New quality initiatives include improving quality of service parts (redesigning them to fix original issues), thereby reducing repeat repairs; fixing service issues by making parts more readily available, having more tools at the dealerships, and having technqiues to fix every problem, with new metrics; and improved human interactions at the dealer, with care standards, a score system, and better customer feedback.

New vehicle quality has been addressed with more rigorous testing starting with the 2009 Ram which has garnered better results from Consumer Reports; through better benchmarking and higher internal standards; and through investigation of the determinors of perceived quality. Quality design simulations are being done before physical models, with the ability to simulate real vehicles and lighting, allowing for the identification of perception issues (such as exposed hardware in the wheel-wells) before a prototype is built.

Future vehicles. Coming up in Q4 2010 will be revised Avenger, Journey, and Caravan. All will get a new interior and engine, refreshed exterior, and repackaging; lower noise and harshness levels, higher performance and gas mileage. Caravan will get best in class ride and handling, comfort, features, performance, and fuel economy. Charger will be all new and dramatically styled, with a class-leading interior, and best-in-class performance and gas mileage.

Branding will work around lifestyles, with groupings such as sweet/simple; fun/practical; uptown/luxury; thrill-seeker; cool/extrovert; and SRT, ultimate-performance.

Current Dodge cars will undergo a "fix the fundamentals" program, retuning the driving experiencing and adding technology for more efficiency and performance. Dodge will get a C-segment sedan, finally replacing the Neon; a B-segment hatchback, a new mid-sized sedan, and a seven-passenger crossover by 2015. The B-car would be from Fiat; the C (Neon-sized) and D (Avenger-sized) were not discussed in detail.

Ralph Gilles has praised Marchionne, saying he breathed new life into the company, raising the energy level. Board chair Kidder said Chrysler would gain true economies of scale.

The company plans to make Dodge more refined, but retain its appeal to younger people.

Chrysler had $5.7 billion in cash at end of September.




Original text

Expected long term features are replacement of all Chrysler small and midsized vehicles by 2013, consolidation of minivans to the Chrysler brand, refocusing of Dodge cars, expansion of Jeep despite the loss of the Patriot and Compass, integration of Fiat technologies into Chrysler and Chrysler technologies into Fiat, and use of Fiat brand names in the United States coupled with the loss of the slow-selling Chrysler and Dodge brands outside of the Americas.

Short-term features expected are renovation of the Sebring and Avenger, repositioning of the Compass, refreshing of the PT Cruiser, a last-minute re-engineering of the LX platform to eject the need for Mercedes components and to make the platform more suitable for Fiat use, as well as replacement of the World Engine with a Fiat four-cylinder range. Electric cars are expected to continue on their course, as are trucks.

Two vehicles whose fate has been questioned will presumably be discussed - the Chrysler 200C and Dodge Dakota. Both have been absent from leaks and mainstream speculation recently. The Jeep Scrambler could conceivably also have a place in Chrysler's future.

Long term, one major question for Mopar fans will be whether the influx of Fiats is temporary or permanent. Will Chrysler Engineering be restaffed and given more responsibility for designing mid-sized cars for the United States, and perhaps for localizing smaller cars as well? Will the large rear-drive cars be returned to the United States for primary engineering? Or will Chrysler be consolidated into an expanded Jeep, truck, and minivan engineering center? These questions should be answered later today.
 
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#303 ·
Abarth 500e first look - the noisiest EV? | Autocar

Abarth 500e first look - the noisiest EV? | Autocar - YouTube

For most of its life, the Fiat 500 has always had a slightly rowdier brother thanks to in-house tuners Abarth. These pocket rockets have always been a great laugh, with go-kart driving characteristics, aggressive styling and noisy exhausts. However, the Fiat on which it’s based has gone all-electric for the latest generation, and Abarth has followed suit. You could argue that this is the first electric hot hatch, with 152bhp being sent to the front wheels. So, what’s it like up close? Join Matt Prior as he takes a look around.
 
#304 · (Edited)
Fiat 500X Offers Enticing Entry Point on Cars.com Affordability Report: 2023 Best Value New Cars


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    • Fiat 500X features high price-to-value equation with technology, roomy interior and standard all-wheel drive (AWD)
    • Loaded with up to 75 advanced safety and security features, the Fiat 500X is available in Pop and Sport trims
    • 2023 Fiat 500X has a starting U.S. manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $28,965 (excluding $1,595 destination charge)
January 23, 2023 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Cars.com is giving the Fiat 500X affordability kudos on its Affordability Report: 2023 Best Value New Cars. Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and technology combine with a fun-to-drive manner to create value for small-SUV customers. The 2023 Fiat 500X in Pop trim has a starting U.S. manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $28,965, excluding $1,595 destination charge.

“In 2023, consumers are expected to be more cautious when spending money on larger items. Cars.com’s Best Value New Car report helps car shoppers find vehicles that have the technology and features they need and that won’t blow their budget. The 2022 Fiat 500X Pop is one of the small SUVs that would be a good option for shoppers who want the convenience of an SUV without the high price tag,” says Jane Ulitskaya, Cars.com editor.
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The 2023 Fiat 500X delivers Italian design and engaging driving dynamics that are synonymous with the FIAT brand. The 500X offers a standard advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and a full array of safety, comfort and convenience features, including:
  • Standard Forward Collision Warning with Full Stop
  • Standard heated seats
  • Standard LED headlights
  • Standard blind-spot warning

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The fun-to-drive small crossover features a 1.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine with engine stop-start (ESS) technology and best-in-class torque for improved performance and fuel economy, delivering 177 horsepower and 210 lb.-ft. of torque. A standard nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD system with a disconnecting rear axle contribute to fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (mpg) highway.

Loaded with up to 75 advanced safety and security features, the 2023 Fiat 500X is available in two trims: Pop and Sport. The Fiat 500X is manufactured in Melfi, Italy.

FIAT Brand
FIAT brand celebrates more than 120 years as an automaker and some things haven’t changed. Head-turning Italian design and the ultimate fun-to-drive factor come standard with every FIAT.

In early 2024, FIAT brand will launch the globally popular Fiat 500e, the first Stellantis battery-electric-vehicle offering in North America.


FIAT is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com
 
#305 ·
Stellantis wants cheaper electric cars, so it’s going to change the batteries
Andrea Hargraves March 12, 2023

Tire Car Automotive parking light Wheel Vehicle


The Stellantis Group is one of the world’s largest companies in the automotive sector, with brands such as Peugeot, Citroen, DS, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Opel and many more in its portfolio.

This consortium was born, in large part, from the merger of the PSA Group with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and as such has significant representation in the fleet of electric vehicles currently in circulation.

Stellantis Group aims to provide cheaper electric cars
As is currently the case with all automakers, the Stellantis group is also grappling with the challenges posed by the electrification of its vehicles, with its high price (when compared to similar combustion engine-equipped versions) still one of the biggest barriers to mass adoption of electric vehicles by consumers.

With that in mind, Stellantis has developed a strategy that can largely overcome this objection.

Stellantis will start using LFP batteries
Despite the fact that the price of current batteries for electric vehicles is at an all-time low, this is still the most weighty component of the final retail price of this type of vehicle, forcing manufacturers to be resourceful in looking for alternatives.

After all, the electrification of cars should continue at a good pace, given the current and future legal restrictions that lie on this market…

Therefore, the Stellants Group He will start betting on LFP batteries (composed of iron, phosphate and lithium), which are cheaper than the current nickel-cobalt-manganese batteries.

The company hopes, in this way, to “achieve a competitive position in terms of costs of manufacturing cars accessible to the middle class,” says Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis.

Electric cars - Grupo Stellantis


The Portuguese executive gave no time horizon for cheaper batteries to arrive in its electric models, but adds that the only question is where they can be purchased.

LFP batteries have advantages over NMC
Currently, in Europe, the most widely used road batteries are based on lithium ions, and more specifically on a chemical mixture of nickel, cobalt and manganese. The combination of these elements gives rise to cells, and it is in them that the charged energy is stored.

Each group of cells is assembled into modules, and the battery, in its final form, consists of these modules, the vehicle’s electronic system, the cooling system and the casings that bring together all these components.

The problem with NMC batteries is the high cost of the raw materials needed to design them, unlike what happens with LFPs. In addition, the latter are more flexible in terms of speed and number of charges, as well as a longer life in general.

At present, most of the global production of LFP batteries is located in China. It should be noted that models with this technology are already circulating on our roads, such as MG 4, Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

Stellantis – The world’s largest fleet of electric vehicles

Stellantis wants cheaper electric cars, so it's going to change the batteries (brytfmonline.com)
 
#308 ·
Stellantis wants cheaper electric cars, so it’s going to change the batteries
Andrea Hargraves March 12, 2023

View attachment 4315

The Stellantis Group is one of the world’s largest companies in the automotive sector, with brands such as Peugeot, Citroen, DS, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Opel and many more in its portfolio.

This consortium was born, in large part, from the merger of the PSA Group with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and as such has significant representation in the fleet of electric vehicles currently in circulation.

Stellantis Group aims to provide cheaper electric cars
As is currently the case with all automakers, the Stellantis group is also grappling with the challenges posed by the electrification of its vehicles, with its high price (when compared to similar combustion engine-equipped versions) still one of the biggest barriers to mass adoption of electric vehicles by consumers.

With that in mind, Stellantis has developed a strategy that can largely overcome this objection.

Stellantis will start using LFP batteries
Despite the fact that the price of current batteries for electric vehicles is at an all-time low, this is still the most weighty component of the final retail price of this type of vehicle, forcing manufacturers to be resourceful in looking for alternatives.

After all, the electrification of cars should continue at a good pace, given the current and future legal restrictions that lie on this market…

Therefore, the Stellants Group He will start betting on LFP batteries (composed of iron, phosphate and lithium), which are cheaper than the current nickel-cobalt-manganese batteries.

The company hopes, in this way, to “achieve a competitive position in terms of costs of manufacturing cars accessible to the middle class,” says Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis.

Electric cars - Grupo Stellantis


The Portuguese executive gave no time horizon for cheaper batteries to arrive in its electric models, but adds that the only question is where they can be purchased.

LFP batteries have advantages over NMC
Currently, in Europe, the most widely used road batteries are based on lithium ions, and more specifically on a chemical mixture of nickel, cobalt and manganese. The combination of these elements gives rise to cells, and it is in them that the charged energy is stored.

Each group of cells is assembled into modules, and the battery, in its final form, consists of these modules, the vehicle’s electronic system, the cooling system and the casings that bring together all these components.

The problem with NMC batteries is the high cost of the raw materials needed to design them, unlike what happens with LFPs. In addition, the latter are more flexible in terms of speed and number of charges, as well as a longer life in general.

At present, most of the global production of LFP batteries is located in China. It should be noted that models with this technology are already circulating on our roads, such as MG 4, Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

Stellantis – The world’s largest fleet of electric vehicles

Stellantis wants cheaper electric cars, so it's going to change the batteries (brytfmonline.com)
It's going to be a unique endeavor.
 
#309 ·
Stellantis Reportedly Showed Off Midsized RAM EV Pickup Concept To Dealers

Kevin Williams
Published Mar 24, 2023 Updated Mar 24, 2023

Ram 1500 Revolution Concept
Is a smaller, fully electric Ram truck coming soon?


Stellantis already took the wraps off its RAM 1500 REV truck; a fully electric version of its full-sized pickup. But, rumors are swirling that Stellantis has a smaller, fully electric pickup in the wings. Stellantis showed off the truck to dealers recently, who are reportedly “blown away” by what the truck offers.
In a report from Automotive News, dealers got to look at the EV truck and shared their thoughts on the future of the brand. The truck is only in concept form, but dealers who have viewed the truck, say it’s very similar to the RAM 1500 Revolution concept we’ve seen before. That truck was supposed to preview the production full-sized RAM EV truck, but all we got was a restyled current-generation RAM. That’s fine, but definitely, a letdown compared to the concept. Whatever the dealers saw, though, was enough to impress and excite them.
If RAM pulls this off, the brand could have a unique offering in the EV truck segment. Right now, all EV trucks are biased toward the very large, full-sized class. A smaller EV pickup could no doubt appeal to those who want a bed, but don’t want all that space. No manufacturer has thus confirmed any smaller EV pickup yet. GM has hinted that it could do a compact EV pickup, but nothing concrete.
Stellantis also showed dealers the next iteration of the Durango, which dealers claim looks nothing like the current crossover. Keep your eyes peeled for the next Durango, and an EV midsized RAM to debut to the public soon.
 
#310 · (Edited)
All-new, All-electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV Unveiled at New York International Auto Show With Targeted Range of Up to an Unsurpassed 500 Miles

    • Ram 1500 REV to provide customers the industry’s best combination of range, towing, payload and charge time
    • All-electric, zero-emission Ram 1500 REV to be offered in two choices:
      • Standard 168-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles
      • Optional 229-kWh large battery pack with a targeted range of up to an unsurpassed 500 miles
    • All-new 2025 Ram 1500 REV capable of:
      • Towing up to 14,000 lbs. and payload of up to 2,700 lbs.
      • Adding up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW
    • Ram 1500 REV XR with class-shattering range to follow
    • Built on new STLA Frame body-on-frame architecture designed specifically for full-size electric vehicles featuring a body-on-frame design that incorporates the battery pack efficiently
    • New powered front trunk (frunk) offers best-in-class 15 cu.-ft. of storage
    • Ram 1500 REV Tungsten trim sits atop the lineup and raises the no-compromise benchmark again for upscale pickup trucks with new, ultra-premium 23-speaker Klipsch audio system
    • Ram 1500 REV launch is a critical step in the electrification strategy outlined in the Stellantis long-term strategic plan Dare Forward 2030
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April 5, 2023 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new, all-electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV – the first battery-electric light-duty pickup truck from Ram Truck – makes its world debut today at the New York International Auto Show. The entire Ram lineup will provide customers with electrified solutions that deliver disruptive, leading-edge advanced technology in the years to come.

“The all-electric Ram 1500 REV is a monumental milestone on our continued journey to offer the industry’s best electrified solutions and further fortifies our award-winning lineup,” said Mike Koval Jr., Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “We believe in bringing the right range of powertrain solutions to our customers and will continue to redefine the pickup truck segment. Our all-new Ram 1500 REV pushes past the competition in areas customers care about most, including range, towing, payload and charge time.”

The 2025 Ram 1500 REV will offer customers two all-electric options, including a standard 168-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles and an optional 229-kWh large battery pack with a targeted range of up to an unsurpassed 500 miles. Both can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, offering customers quick and convenient charging solutions.

Vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid bi-directional charging affords the Ram 1500 REV the flexibility to charge another Stellantis battery-electric vehicle or provide power back to the grid. With Ram’s mission to make lives easier, the truck can also send power to a home during a storm, run the tailgate party or provide power at the camp or jobsite. An onboard power panel in the bed can provide up to 7.2 kW while an available onboard power panel in the front trunk (frunk) provides up to 3.6 kW.

Other targeted performance figures include a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, 654 horsepower and 620 lb.-ft. of torque, up to 24 inches of water fording, up to 14,000 pounds towing and a maximum payload capacity of 2,700 pounds.

Ram is committed to innovation and powertrain leadership with a lineup that consists of anything and everything truck buyers want and need, meeting real-world demands. Today, Ram offers the most fuel-efficient 4x4s and the quickest, fastest and most powerful pickup truck straight from the factory.

The 2025 Ram 1500 REV is available in five trims, including Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Limited and, introducing an all-new trim, Tungsten.

Ram 1500 REV is part of Ram’s significant contribution to Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan to lead the way the world moves by delivering innovative, clean, safe and affordable mobility solutions. As part of Dare Forward 2030, Stellantis is investing more than €30 billion through 2025 in electrification and software to deliver battery-electric vehicles that meet customer demands.

The all-new Ram 1500 REV XR with class-shattering range will follow the introduction of the all-electric Ram 1500 REV.


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No-compromise electrified benchmark with segment-leading capability, power, performance and efficiency
The Ram 1500 REV delivers consumers a new level of performance with dual 250-kilowatt (kW) electric drive modules (EDMs) that combine the motor, gearbox and inverter along with all-wheel-drive capability. The 2025 Ram 1500 REV features one EDM on the front axle with an automatic wheel-end disconnect that allow the front wheels to spin freely in certain conditions, maximizing efficiency. A 250-kW EDM is positioned on the rear axle available with an electronic-locking rear differential.

The standard 168-kWh battery pack has a targeted range of up to 350 miles and the optional 229-kWh large battery pack has a targeted range of up to an unsurpassed 500 miles. Both can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, offering customers a quick and convenient recharging solution. Lives will be made easier courtesy of vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-home and vehicle-grid bi-directional charging that can send power to a home during a storm, run the tailgate party or provide power at the camp or jobsite. An onboard power panel in the bed can provide up to 7.2 kW while the available onboard power panel in the frunk provides up to 3.6 kW.

The 2025 Ram 1500 REV is built on the all-new STLA Frame designed specifically for full-size electric vehicles featuring a body-on-frame design. The all-new high-strength steel frame is comprised of advanced materials to be lightweight yet stiff and durable. The STLA Frame is wider in the middle to efficiently incorporate the battery pack while still using protection afforded by the frame rails. A full-length aero belly pan further enhances the segment’s most slippery truck with an estimated .340 coefficient of drag.

Drivers will enjoy class-leading ride and handling, a multi-link independent rear suspension with standard, segment-exclusive, active-level, four-corner air suspension with adaptive damping. The adjustable air suspension enables five different modes: entry/exit, aero, normal, off-road 1 and off-road 2. All-new 22-by-9-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in 275/50R22 Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires achieve an unmatched combination of wear resistance and reduced road noise.

Autonomous vehicle capabilities include Hands-free Active Driving Assist and ParkSense Automated Parking System. Active Driving Assist is available for hands-on-wheel/eyes-on-road and hands-free/eyes-on-road automated driving using lane centering with adaptive cruise control. The system uses multiple sensors, including radars and cameras, to dictate appropriate roads for the technology.

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Modern design showcases all-new face of Ram’s electrified future
The 2025 Ram 1500 REV boasts a modern, contemporary design aesthetic that telegraphs the bold, heroic presence Ram is known for while evolving its DNA to signify an electrified future. The all-new face is instantly recognizable while being provocative in its graphic presence and visual architecture. The all-electric Ram 1500 REV includes signature lit “tuning fork” premium LED headlamps, a lit R-A-M badge reimagined in a modern, contemporary script and a one-touch power operated frunk with a best-in-class 15 cu.-ft. of space available. The Ram 1500 REV embraces a modern, body-color front fascia to differentiate it from the rest of the light-duty lineup while maintaining Ram’s DNA.

Ram’s first fully electrified light-duty truck stays true to its roots with muscular body lines and fender openings that have been stretched to cover 20- or 22-inch all-terrain tires. The all-electrified Ram 1500 REV features a specific, newly designed hood that is both svelte but muscular, maximizing internal frunk volume by conscientious sculpting of the external surface. A taut, arcing body-side character line stretches from front to rear, while sophisticated sculpture ensures a cohesive, modern side profile that is in harmony with the front and rear.

The charge port has been thoughtfully placed on the driver’s side front quarter panel and, when plugged in, is illuminated by blinking premium LED lighting. An audible sound signals the Ram 1500 REV is plugged in and charging has begun. The charge port features Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging on the top half and DC fast charging on the bottom half of the charger.

Transitioning to the rear of the Ram 1500 REV, Tungsten models feature an all-new power tailgate and a new, modern and contemporary R-A-M badge. Like the front, the rear of the Ram 1500 REV features an all-new, EV-specific, premium LED taillight design that spans onto the tailgate, indicating it is Ram’s all-electric light-duty offering.

The new 2025 Ram 1500 REV offers the best lockable bed storage in the segment with the unique and convenient RamBox featuring a 115-volt outlet. RamBox is illuminated, highly versatile, weatherproof, lockable and includes drain plugs on the bottom of the storage bins.

Authentic, premium materials compliment the most technologically advanced Ram 1500 ever
The new 2025 Ram 1500 REV raises the benchmark for pickup truck interiors once again with a variety of authentic, premium materials that are both comfortable and durable. The interior design team focused on premium textures, colors, materials and continuing to enhance functionality for unexpected luxury throughout. Authentic and premium materials include carbon-fiber, metal and leather elements that combine to deliver a level of luxury only seen in a Ram truck.

The most technologically advanced Ram 1500 ever offers a host of leading-edge features incorporated into the segment’s leading interior, including the advanced Uconnect 5 system with a new 14.5-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a segment-first 10.25-inch passenger screen, digital rearview mirror, Head-up Display (HUD) and a Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system.

Other enhanced features include an e-shifter (P/R/N/D functionality with new buttons for eco mode, axle lock, hill-descent control and to open and close the frunk), new regen buttons (normal or one pedal driving with max regen), a redesigned starter button that now features an illuminated power symbol, push-button trailer steering knob and an accessory switch bank that, when equipped with the 14.5-inch touchscreen, uses buttons both on the bottom of the touchscreen and directly off screen below.

The new Ram 1500 REV Tungsten trim gives customers an ultra-premium experience while staying true to the hardworking nature of the Ram 1500. Tungsten’s Indigo/Sea Salt interior includes new platinum patina/semi-bright dual-textured metal accents featuring diamond knurling, suede-wrapped headliner, A- and B-pillars and visors, and heated and ventilated premium quilted leather driver and front passenger seats with 24-way power, including memory settings and a massage function, power lumbar support and four-way powered headrests. Other features that give Tungsten a well-crafted, high-quality feel and appearance include a Tungsten badge on the center console featuring inlaid lettering and diamond knurling, which also proudly displays the vehicle identification number or VIN, brushed platinum patina aluminum litho bezels, a unique shifter center cap, an ultra-premium Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system with 23 speakers, all-new dual wireless chargers and a metal pedal kit.

The most technologically advanced Ram 1500 ever
The all-new, all-electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV features the latest, most advanced Uconnect system ever, with a 12- or new 14.5-inch touchscreen display and intuitive user experience. The Uconnect 5 system offers even more connected services and features for unmatched ease of use.

A few highlights of the system include:
  • 12- and new 14.5-inch reconfigurable touchscreen displays that feature split-screen capability for dual application operation
  • New 10.25-inch passenger screen with three major functions: co-pilot (navigation, device management), entertainment (via HDMI) and the ability to view the exterior vehicle cameras
  • EV Pages showing:
    • Power Flow: demonstrates the flow of power through the vehicle in kW
    • Range Impact: advises how to reduce energy consumption and increase range
    • Driving History: a power/charge bar chart showing energy consumption and regeneration in current, weekly, two-week and four-week intervals
    • Charge Schedules: recommends when to charge and for how long
    • Plug & Charge: automatically authorizes payments when plugged into a compatible charging station
    • Max Battery Level: customer has a choice between an 80% charge level for daily/towing needs, which is optimized for battery performance, or 100% for long distance needs
    • Charging Level
    • The driver’s digital cluster display features one pedal driving that can bring the truck to a stop. Other EV gauges include current power, regen, range and battery temperature
The 2025 Ram 1500 REV features a 10.25-inch passenger screen. Only visible to the front passenger and with dynamic touchscreen control, it offers three major functions: co-pilot (navigation, device management), entertainment (via HDMI) and the ability to view the exterior vehicle cameras. The front passenger screen features an HDMI plug, which lets occupants connect their phone or tablet, turning the touchscreen into a mirrored extension of their device, allowing internet searches, music and app use to project through the Uconnect 5 system.

The 2025 Ram 1500 REV features a full-color HUD that is configurable up to 10 inches and features several different content areas at once, including Lane Departure, Lane Keep Assist, adaptive cruise control, turn-by-turn navigation, current speed, current gear and speed limit. All HUD settings can be personalized and saved within the driver profiles.

Tailored to the Ram 1500 REV’s battery-electric capabilities, the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster includes a new screen that shows charge schedule (estimated charge times for both Level 1 and Level 2 chargers) and one pedal driving. Nearly two dozen different menus are offered, including driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, active driving assist, drowsy driver detection and speed limit traffic signs display.

Smartphone as a Key, in coordination with the Ram app, enables customers to use their smartphone as a key to access and start the vehicle without their phone leaving their pocket. Ram owners can also create digital keys that can be shared with other smartphones, with full control over the access. The card key is a backup that can be used in case the phone battery is dead or if the driver doesn't have their phone with them. A traditional key fob is standard, but the smartphone and card key options give customers more flexibility in terms of how they access their trucks.

Ultra-premium Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system provides exceptional sound quality
The new Ram 1500 Tungsten earns its place atop the lineup with an ultra-premium 23-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system as standard equipment. Stunning audio performance is delivered through the exquisite, segment-exclusive Klipsch audio system, which employs 23 specifically tuned speakers, including a high-performing 12-inch subwoofer.

Ram Truck Brand
In 2009, the Ram Truck brand launched as a stand-alone division, focused on meeting the demands of truck buyers and delivering benchmark-quality vehicles. With a full lineup of trucks, the Ram 1500, 2500/3500 Heavy Duty, 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab and ProMaster, the Ram brand builds trucks that get the hard work done and families where they need to go.

Ram continues to outperform the competition and sets the benchmarks for:
  • 1,075 lb.-ft. of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel
  • Towing capacity of 37,090 lbs. with Ram 3500
  • Segment first 1,000 lb.-ft of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel
  • Payload of 7,680 lbs. with Ram 3500
  • Most luxurious: Ram Limited with real wood, real leather and 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen
  • Best ride and handling with exclusive link coil rear and auto-level air suspensions
  • Most interior space with Ram Mega Cab
  • The most cargo space available in any traditional full size cargo van
  • Most capable full-size off-road pickup – Ram Power Wagon
  • Ram 1500 TRX is the quickest, fastest and most powerful mass-produced pickup truck in the world
  • Most awarded light-duty truck in America
  • Highest owner loyalty of any half-ton pickup
The latest J.D. Power APEAL study, which rates the emotional bond between customers and their vehicles, named the 2022 Ram 1500 as the best vehicle in the large light-duty pickup category. This marks the third straight year Ram 1500 has received top honors.

The Ram 1500 lineup includes the Know & Go mobile app featuring an immersive experience for customers who want to learn more about their vehicles.

Ram is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.
 
#311 ·
April 5, 2023

All-new, All-electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV Unveiled at New York International Auto Show with Targeted Range of up to an Unsurpassed 500 Miles
Image RAM

Ram 1500 REV to provide customers the industry’s best combination of range, towing, payload and charge time
  • All-electric, zero-emission Ram 1500 REV to be offered in two choices:
    • Standard 168 kilowatt-hour battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles
    • Optional 229 kilowatt-hour large battery pack with a targeted range of up to an unsurpassed 500 miles
  • Capable of towing up to 14,000 lbs. and payload of up to 2,700 lbs.
  • Ram 1500 REV can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW
  • Ram 1500 REV XR with class-shattering range to follow
  • Built on new STLA Frame body-on-frame architecture designed specifically for full-size electric vehicles featuring a body-on-frame design that incorporates the battery pack efficiently
  • New powered frunk offers best-in-class 15 cu.-ft. of storage
  • Ram 1500 REV Tungsten trim sits atop the lineup and raises the no-compromise benchmark again for upscale pickup trucks with new, ultra-premium 23-speaker Klipsch audio system
  • Ram 1500 REV launch is a critical step in the electrification strategy outlined in the Stellantis long-term strategic plan, Dare Forward 2030

Auburn Hills, Michigan – The all-new, all-electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV – the first battery-electric light-duty pickup truck from Ram Truck – makes its world debut today at the New York International Auto Show. The entire Ram lineup will provide customers with electrified solutions that deliver disruptive, leading-edge advanced technology in the years to come.
“The all-electric Ram 1500 REV is a monumental milestone on our continued journey to offer the industry’s best electrified solutions and further fortifies our award-winning lineup,” said Mike Koval Jr., Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “We believe in bringing the right range of powertrain solutions to our customers and will continue to redefine the pickup truck segment. Our all-new Ram 1500 REV pushes past the competition in areas customers care about most including range, towing, payload and charge time.”
The 2025 Ram 1500 REV will offer customers two all-electric options including a standard 168 kilowatt-hour battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles and an optional 229 kilowatt-hour large battery pack with a targeted range of up to an unsurpassed 500 miles. Both can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW offering customers quick and convenient charging solutions.
Vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid bi-directional charging affords the Ram 1500 REV the flexibility to charge another Stellantis battery-electric vehicle or provide power back to the grid. With Ram’s mission to make lives easier, the truck can also send power to a home during a storm, run the tailgate party or provide power at the camp or jobsite. An on-board power panel in the bed can provide up to 7.2 kW while an available on-board power panel in the frunk provides up to 3.6 kW.
Other targeted performance figures include a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, 654 horsepower and 620 lb.-ft. of torque, up to 24 inches of water fording, up to 14,000 pounds towing and a maximum payload capacity of 2,700 pounds.
Ram is committed to innovation and powertrain leadership with a lineup that consists of anything and everything truck buyers want and need, meeting real-world demands. Today, Ram offers the most fuel-efficient 4x4s and the quickest, fastest and most powerful pickup truck straight from the factory.
The 2025 Ram 1500 REV is available in five trims including Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Limited and, introducing an all-new trim, Tungsten.
Ram 1500 REV is part of Ram’s significant contribution to Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan to lead the way the world moves by delivering innovative, clean, safe and affordable mobility solutions. As part of Dare Forward 2030, Stellantis is investing more than €30 billion through 2025 in electrification and software to delivery battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) that meet customer demands.
The all-new Ram 1500 REV XR with class-shattering range will follow the introduction of the all-electric Ram 1500 REV.

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#312 ·
New Chrysler 300 EV Reportedly Shown to Dealers, Twinned With the Dodge Charger EV
24 Apr 2023
Mircea Panait
Mircea Panait profile photo



Automotive lighting Motor vehicle Hood Light Car



Named after the Airflow series from the 1930s, the Airflow Concept from the CES 2022 will be adapted for series production. Based on the STLA Large platform detailed by Stellantis back in July 2021, the mid-size crossover will drop in 2024 as a 2025 model. That's only the start of Chrysler's rebirth as an EV brand, though…


According to dealer sources, a Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Concept-sized vehicle is on the menu as well, also featuring the SLTA Large platform. But as opposed to the Dodge-branded sibling, which is a three-door liftback coupe, the 300-replacing vehicle is a five-door liftback sedan with a coupe-inspired profile. There's no photographic evidence of the electric sedan at press time, so take said intel with a tiny grain of salt.

Our friends at Mopar Insiders draw attention to a January 2022 interview with Christine Feuell, the big kahuna at Chrysler, in which she confirmed a 300-replacing vehicle. The first woman to lead Chrysler is fully aware that Chrysler made a name for itself by means of luxury-oriented sedans. Even though crossovers are far more commercially successful nowadays, bear in mind that sedans are doing just fine. Certain sedans, that is, with the Model 3 from Tesla coming first to mind.

Honorable mentions further include the ugly but seriously impressive BMW i7, the EQE and EQS from Mercedes, and – of course – the Lucid Air. The cited publication hasn't learned anything in regard to peak output and maximum combined range, but fret not...

Stellantis confirmed the STLA Large with up to 800 kilometers (500 miles) from battery sizes ranging between 101 and 118 kilowatt hours. We also know that EDM #3, the electric drive module for the STLA Large platform, produces between 150 and 330 kW. That's 201 to 443 horsepower per axle. A dual-motor setup results in up to 886 horsepower, whereas a Maserati Folgore-inspired layout with three motors would pack 1,329 horsepower. It's also necessary to highlight that Maserati promised 1,200 ponies from its Folgore powertrain, although only 818 ponies are produced nowadays due to the lithium-ion battery's limited discharge capability.

The second-generation GranTurismo and convertible-bodied GranCabrio feature a different platform as well, derived from the Giorgio that Alfa Romeo developed with Ferrari's assistance. The STLA Large is a brand-new design, and there's a lot still we don't know about it yet. On the upside, Dodge used the 2022 SEMA Show to reveal a few notable figures. 400-volt powertrains are coming to the Charger Daytona with anything between 455 and 670 horsepower. As for the Hellcat-replacing Banshee powertrain, which runs at 800 volts, we still don't know if peak output will exceed 1,000 ponies.

We can assume that Chrysler's reimagined 300 won't use the Banshee powertrain, but the lesser systems that run at 400 volts. Even with merely 455 horsepower on deck, the instant torque will make the upcoming sedan adequately quick to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour). Oh, and by the way, the electric drive units for the STLA Large and RAM 1500 REV's STLA Frame will be made in Kokomo, Indiana, according to Stellantis.


New Chrysler 300 EV Reportedly Shown to Dealers, Twinned With the Dodge Charger EV - autoevolution
 
#313 ·
Electric Chrysler 300 successor shown to dealers as new EV sedan
Avatar for Peter JohnsonPeter Johnson| Apr 25 2023 - 12:18 pm PT
1 Comment
Chrysler-electric-300

Chrysler is planning an all-electric future, despite not having a single EV on the road today. Will the plans include an electric Chrysler 300 to continue the full-size sedans run? According to dealers, Stellantis is already working on one, but it may not carry the name.
Under parent company Stellantis, Chrysler is moving to an all-electric lineup by 2028. The automaker announced plans last January to introduce its first EV by 2025 as it shifted away from ICE vehicles.
Chrysler kicked things off with its Airflow EV concept, claiming this is what “the future looks like to Chrysler.” The Chrysler Airflow EV is an SUV/crossover that “represents the real design future for the brand,” according to Buick design executive director Sharon Gauci.
The concept featured up to 400 miles of range, level 3 autonomous capabilities, and additional technology to make the riding experience more enjoyable.
Although Chrysler has yet to reveal what its other EVs will be called, let alone look like, new information hints at an electric 300 sedan replacement.


The 2023 model year will be the last for the gas-powered full-size sedan or any new ICE vehicle from the brand. However, the Chrysler 300’s spirit may live on in the electric era.
 
#314 ·
As Stellantis moves forward with its plan to produce an extensive portfolio of electric vehicles (EVs) for the markets in the United States and Canada, we figured it would be beneficial to take a detailed look at the overall timeline of these new EVs and to identify when we can expect them to be on available in dealer showrooms.

2024 Ram ProMaster EV –

2024 Ram ProMaster EV. (Ram).


The first EV to hit the market is the 2024 Ram ProMaster EV. The ProMaster EV is set to deliver exceptional performance capabilities in part to its European counterpart, the Fiat E-Ducato commercial van. With a rumored larger battery pack and more powerful e-motor for the North American market, the ProMaster EV promises to be a game-changer in the commercial van segment.

One of the standout features of the ProMaster EV is its front-wheel-drive architecture, ensuring uncompromising handling and control, even under heavy load conditions. Furthermore, the vehicle’s battery pack is optimally placed under the floor, leaving the load capacity intact and providing an ideal weight distribution that lowers the center of gravity. This unique feature improves the vehicle’s handling, making it a standout choice in the commercial van segment.
The recent 2023 redesign introduced a new “Super High Roof” configuration on the 13-foot cargo van. This new configuration adds 10 inches of headroom, making cargo volume and height best-in-class. In addition, a new roll-up door available on the back of the vehicle further elevates convenience, especially for those focusing on final-mile delivery. These impressive features, combined with Ram’s recent partnership with Amazon to provide emissions-free vans for their delivery fleet, solidify Ram’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the industry.



2024 Fiat 500e –
2023 Fiat 500e La Prima Hatchback. (FIAT).
The Fiat 500e is set to hit dealer showrooms by year-end, featuring an 87 kW (117 horsepower) e-motor that enables a swift 0 to 62 mph acceleration time of 9 seconds. Equipped with a 42-kWh lithium-ion battery and 85-kW fast charging capability, the 500e can build up enough energy to travel 31 miles in just 5 minutes – exceeding the average daily use requirement. Additionally, the fast charger can juice up the battery to 80% in a mere 35 minutes. The car has a Combo 2 socket on the rear right-side panel that allows AC and DC charging.

The car is a must-have for Fiat dealers who only currently have the compact 500X crossover in their showrooms.


2024 Dodge Charger Daytona –
Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee eStage 2 Concept at the 2022 SEMA Show. (Dodge).
Dodge’s next-generation Charger should also arrive sometime early next year. The new Charger Daytona will mark the first-ever all-electric muscle car from the brand. Our sources tell us that the electric versions will arrive in showrooms before the new twin-turbo Hurricane6 engine models.
The electric muscle car will be od in both 400-volt and 800-volt electrical architectures, with the 800-volt being the high-performance Banshee model shown in the concept. The 400-volt standard models will deliver 455 to 679 horsepower and include a new simulated shifting e-transmission. In addition, all cars will get a new patented “Fratzog exhaust” sound chamber with its own unique tune.



2024 Jeep® Recon (EJ) –
2024 Jeep® Recon Moab (EJ) 4xe. (Jeep).

Jeep® has introduced an all-new off-roader called the Jeep Recon (EJ), a smaller offering than the iconic Jeep Wrangler (JL). The Recon will not replace the Wrangler but instead, be a “baby brother” to it. What sets the Recon apart from the Wrangler is that it is being designed from the ground up to be a 100% zero-emission off-roader, offered exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle (BEV).
The Recon will feature true “Trail-Rated” capability, such as the Jeep Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, e-Locker Axle Technology, underbody protection, tow hooks, aggressive off-road tires, and Jeep Open-Air Freedom (One-Touch Powertop, Removable Doors, and glass). The latest generation of Uconnect also comes with the Recon, providing detailed travel guides of notable off-road trails. The off-roader is set to arrive in showrooms in early 2024, offering a unique off-roading experience for adventure enthusiasts.



2024 Jeep® Wagoneer S (KX) –
2024 Jeep® Wagoneer S BEV. (Jeep).
Jeep is looking to expand its Wagonner premium sub-brand by introducing the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S (KX). Unlike the upcoming 2024 Jeep Cherokee (KM), the codenamed Wagoneer S will only be available as a BEV.
Built on the STLA Large architecture, the new Wagoneer S is expected to deliver an impressive 600 horsepower and a range of 400 miles. It will also feature a new 800-watt electrical architecture, which is anticipated to improve fast-charging speeds. The Wagoneer S is said to have a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 3.5 seconds.
Unlike its larger siblings, the Wagoneer S will be a true global Wagoneer, being offered around the globe. Expect it to arrive in mid-2024 in North American showrooms.



2025 Chrysler Airflow –
Chrysler Airflow Graphite Concept. (Chrysler).
Shown in conceptual form twice, the Airflow will be Chrysler’s first EV crossover. The Airflow Graphite Concept offers a reimagined look at a vehicle destined for production for the 2025 model year. Expect the Airflow to arrive in showrooms in late-2024 in a five-passenger configuration.
Based on the STLA Large architecture, the Airflow Concept features all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability and is powered by two 150 kW (201 horsepower) electric drive motors (EDMs), one in the front and one in the rear (for a combined output of 402 horsepower).
The STLA Large architecture was designed to accommodate larger capacity EDMs, so it wouldn’t be far off to see a possible high-performance version of the Airflow Concept in the future. The Graphite Concept setup here is aimed at delivering a maximum range achieving up to 400 miles of range on a single charge.



2025 Ram 1500 REV –
2025 Ram 1500 REV Tungsten 4×4. (Ram).
The 2025 Ram 1500 REV will offer customers two all-electric options, including a standard 168 kWh battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles and an optional 229 kWh large battery pack with a targeted range of up to an unsurpassed 500 miles. Both can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, offering customers quick and convenient charging solutions.
Vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-home, and vehicle-to-grid bi-directional charging allow the Ram 1500 REV to charge another Stellantis EV or provide power back to the grid. With Ram’s mission to make lives easier, the truck can also send power to a home during a storm, run the tailgate party or provide power at the camp or job site. An onboard power panel in the bed can provide up to 7.2 kW, while an available onboard power panel in the front trunk (frunk) provides up to 3.6 kW.
Other targeted performance figures include a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, 654 horsepower, and 620 lb.-ft. of torque, up to 24 inches of water fording, up to 14,000 lbs. towing, and a maximum payload capacity of 2,700 lbs.
The 2025 Ram 1500 REV will be available in five trims, including Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Limited, as well as the return of the beloved Tungsten model. Expect the Ram 1500 REV to hit showrooms in late-2024.
The all-new Ram 1500 REV XR (extended range) model with a class-shattering range will follow the introduction of the all-electric Ram 1500 REV.
 
#315 ·
Alfa Romeos May Soon Be Singing “Born in the USA”

Tom Murphy
Mon, May 8, 2023


alfa romeo tonale

Alfa Romeos May Soon Be Singing “Born in the USA”Alfa Romeo
  • Alfa CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato says a North American plant would be an important asset for global growth, and he sees the larger E-segment as a logical step for Alfa Romeo, especially in the US.
  • Alfa Romeo is preparing to launch a B-segment crossover in 2024, offered as a battery-electric model and also as a mild hybrid with an internal-combustion engine. Another new BEV will launch in 2025, followed by another in 2026.
  • He says the next Giulia, to be developed jointly by teams in Italy and North America and built in Cassino, Italy, will “be absolutely fantastic” and will offer 1000 hp as a BEV only, with no internal-combustion variant.
As Alfa Romeo prepares to launch its Tonale premium crossover in the US, the brand’s chief executive has set his sights on an ambitious strategy to open the first North American vehicle assembly plant for the 113-year-old brand.
Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato discloses the plan to North American journalists visiting Milan to drive the new Tonale, which slots in below the Stelvio crossover and will compete against the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Volvo XC40, and others in the popular small luxury crossover segment.

Imparato says a North American plant would be an important asset for Alfa Romeo’s global growth, beyond its two current Italian plants in Cassino (Giulia and Stelvio) and Pomigliano d’Arco (Tonale), and he sees the larger E-segment as a logical step for Alfa Romeo, especially in the US.
He doesn’t specify whether this all-electric E-segment vehicle would be a car or crossover—or whether a crossover might offer three rows of seating—but the Italian brand wants to compete more directly with the BMW X5 and perhaps the coupe-like X6, both of which are assembled at BMW’s plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, for export worldwide.
“It could be a fantastic coupe, too,” Imparato says of the coming E-segment EV, potentially arriving in 2027 and riding on parent company Stellantis’ STLA platform for larger vehicles. He says the shape of this new vehicle will be decided by the end of this year.
“The first market in the world for E-segment is your market—the US. The second is China,” says Imparato, who sees significant growth potential for premium E-segment vehicles in Europe as well.
alfa ceo jean philippe imparato

Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato.Tom Murphy
“If I want to be the global premium brand for Stellantis, I must be everywhere in the world in terms of sales,” Imparato says. “I must be at the top level in terms of satisfaction, in terms of customer satisfaction and customer experience. And I must plan for success for the future. That’s what we need.”
Where exactly Alfa Romeo would assemble vehicles in North America remains uncertain, but Imparato says he hopes it will be in the US.
Larry Dominique, senior vice president and head of Alfa Romeo and Fiat North America, says it would not be a greenfield plant in the US. He also noted the recent idling of the Stellantis assembly plant in Belvidere, Illinois, perhaps hinting the facility could have new life building Alfa Romeos.
More immediately, Alfa is preparing to launch a B-segment crossover in 2024, offered as a battery-electric model and also as a mild hybrid with an internal-combustion engine. Imparato describes the vehicle as “a Mini Countryman killer, a perfect urban EV,” and says it’s Dominique’s decision whether to bring this vehicle to North America.
Another new BEV will launch in 2025, followed by another in 2026. By 2027, Alfa Romeo will sell only BEVs globally, which means the current Giulia sedan and Stelvio crossover would no longer offer internal-combustion powertrains. Because the new Tonale will be offered only as a plug-in hybrid in the US, Imparato says that model will reduce Alfa’s worldwide carbon-dioxide emissions as a brand by 40%. But the ultimate goal is zero emissions across the portfolio.
“I will go electric in Israel. I will go electric in Turkey. And they have the means to absorb the electric proposal in Turkey,” Imparato says. “I will be electric in Japan, in China, in the Middle East.”
1955 giulietta spider concept displayed at the alfa romeo museum near milan

1955 Giulietta Spider concept displayed at the Alfa Romeo museum near Milan.Tom Murphy


And the product strategy is not focused solely on utilitarian crossovers but also on sleek sedans and coupes that have been core to Alfa Romeo’s existence.
Imparato says aerodynamics are crucial for extending the range of BEVs, and the taller profile of a crossover certainly hinders smooth airflow.
“So for me, electrification means the sedan is back. You will have an all-electric Giulia,” he promises. “In the coming weeks we will freeze the Giulia’s next-generation design… I will bring a sedan (EV) on the market and probably not only one.”

He says the next Giulia, to be developed jointly by teams in Italy and North America and built in Cassino, Italy, will “be absolutely fantastic” and will offer 1000 hp as a BEV only, with no internal-combustion variant.

As for the small luxury crossover segment, Alfa executives want the new Tonale to dig into the market share of the No.1 player, the Volvo XC40, which reached more than 6000 sales in the US in the first quarter of 2023, followed by the Mercedes GLA (4000 sales), Audi Q3 (3800), Lexus UX (3200), BMW X1 (3200), and Land Rover Evoque (1100).
Sales in the entire segment were up 8.2%, while SUVs were up only 4% and midsize luxury crossovers were up a whopping 15%, according to Wards Intelligence data.
 
#317 ·
2025 Ram 1500 REV packs 650 horsepower, up to 500 miles of range

Apr 5, 2023 #ram1500 #cars #truck
It may have technically been revealed first during the Super Bowl, but the New York Auto Show is where we're finally getting to see the 2025 Ram 1500 REV up close and personal. It's also where Ram has provided all the important specs. And with 650 horsepower and up to 500 miles of range, it has some impressive numbers. The body of the Ram is very obviously based on the current Ram, but it has unique front and rear styling. The front bumper, grille, lights and hood are all completely different, and the headlights and illuminated "RAM" badge are straight off the concept. The taillights also continue onto the tailgate, similar to the F-150 Lightning. But this old body sits on new underpinnings. The REV uses the new STLA Frame, well, frame. It's a fair bit wider in the middle than the regular Ram frame in order to fit the battery packs.
 
#318 ·
1 / 16
The Chrysler Airflow (As We Know It) Is Dead: We’ll See a New Design and a New Name
It won't be an alphanumeric name, Chrysler's new boss assures us
By
Zach Butler
-
May 17, 2023

(Images: Stellantis | Chrysler)The Chrysler Airflow? Yeah, no: Apparently that’s not going to be a thing.
It happens once or twice each year: A few of us in the TFL office pause for a few minutes and think, “What is going on with Chrysler?”. We thought the Airflow concept was the answer. It brings a desperately needed successor for the soon-to-be-defunct 300 and kicks the brand into an electrified age. But now, Motor Trend reports that Chrysler is moving in a different direction, toward a different car without the 1930s-era Airflow name.
Christine Feuell, who joined Stellantis as Chrysler’s brand boss in September 2021, is keen to start over and bring out a more modern design than what we’ve seen since last year. Evidently, that’s a challenge Stellantis chief design officer Ralph Gilles is all too happy to grab with both hands.
Considering he’s the man behind the new Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT EV and the Ram Revolution pickup truck concept, I’m certainly interested to see how he’ll beat the Airflow’s design with this new Chrysler. The new production car will take some cues from the Airflow, no doubt, but Feuell notes it will bring a more “tech-forward” ethos to the mix, per MT‘s report.
Regardless of what it looks like, its fundamental architecture won’t change from what we already know. While the Airflow concept rode on the same RU platform as the Pacifica minivan, the production version will instead use Stellantis’ STLA Large platform. It’s the same architecture that underpins the automaker’s midsize EVs and should accommodate modern design changes, thanks to the flat floor made possible by the battery pack and generally better proportions, since it won’t have a conventional engine. It will also allow 400-volt or 800-volt systems for DC fast charging, as well as a driving range of around 400 miles, according to the automaker’s earlier claims.

Will we still see a new Chrysler in the next year or two?
The original plan, when Chrysler showed us the Airflow concept, was to have a production-ready vehicle by 2025. When you change up the design and the name, though, you have to wonder if that target will stay the same. Stellantis knows there’s a lot of uncertainty in the public at-large around Chrysler’s future, to the point where it showed a production-intent vehicle to dealers.
The brand does indeed still aim to bring out a production EV in 2025. Beyond that, Feuell says, we’ll actually see a “whole new portfolio” by 2028. She does not say how many vehicles will be in that portfolio, though it’s difficult to imagine a leaner lineup than what Chrysler’s had these past few years with the 300 and Pacifica holding down the fort.
We’ll have to wait and see what Chrysler has up its sleeve. The brand does need to bring something truly special to the party if the brand is going to gain back some mind share, so perhaps it’s for the best we won’t see the Airflow as it originally planned. Feuell also insists, whatever the first car’s name is, that it won’t be some alphanumeric designation.

 

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#319 · (Edited)
Tesla Gets a New Rival as Chrysler Changes Electric Vehicle Plan
Bhagyashree Soni
BY BHAGYASHREE SONIMAY 22, 2023UPDATED:MAY 22, 2023


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Electric car business chief Tesla (TSLA) – Get Free Report hasn’t had a lot issue sustaining its title as the highest EV maker within the US. Billionaire Elon Musk’s firm delivered 1.31 million EVs in 2022, whereas second place Ford (F) – Get Free Report offered 61,575 EVs. Tesla ought to preserve that title this yr because it plans to provide 1.8 million EVs in 2023.
However, Tesla’s competitors retains rolling out new EV fashions to chop into its market. General Motors (GM) – Get Free Report on April 21 unveiled its newest supertruck, the 2023 GMC Hummer EV 3X, together with its new 2024 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1 and GMC Hummer EV 3X SUVs
In March, Hyundai (HYMTF) unveiled its new second era, all-electric Kona subcompact crossover SUV, that includes customary and long-range powertrains. Toyota (TM) – Get Free Report in April launched its newest EVs, the bZ Sport Crossover Concept and the bZ FlexSpace Concept, family-oriented SUV-type BEV, specializing in utility.
Nio (NIO) – Get Free Report stunned the EV market on April 28 revealing that it had launched deliveries of its coup SUV EC7 three days sooner than anticipated. Honda Motor Co. (HMC) – Get Free Report in April stated in 2025 it is going to ship its first mid- to large-size electrical automobiles in North America, primarily based on its unique devoted EV platform.


Chrysler
Stellantis Electrification Goals Set
Automaker Stellantis has set electrification objectives of 100% of its European and 50% of its US car gross sales to be battery electrical automobiles, with 75 BEV fashions and 5 million BEV unit gross sales, by 2030.
In a problem to Tesla, Ford and General Motors, the Netherlands-based automaker revealed plans for its entry into the electrical pickup market in April with its all-electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV, its first battery electrical light-duty pickup truck that might be constructed within the US, which might be out there within the fourth quarter of 2024.
The Ram 1500 REV may have an elective 229 kilowatt-hour massive battery pack with a focused vary of as much as 500 miles, which matches the Tesla Cybertruck said vary of 500 miles and surpasses the Ford F-150 Lightning’s prime 320 vary.


Stellantis subsidiary Chrysler, as soon as one of many Big Three US auto names together with Ford and GM, at present solely affords two inside combustion engine automobiles, the Chrysler Pacifica Minivan and the Chrysler 300 sedan. It additionally has the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid with an inside combustion engine and electrical motor.
By the top of 2023, Stellantis stated it is going to discontinue the Chrysler 300, leaving the Pacifica as Chrysler’s final remaining pure inside combustion engine car. In 2022, Stellantis additionally stated it could discontinue the Dodge Challenger and Charger ICE fashions by the top of 2023. Chrysler has stated it is going to go totally electrical by 2028.
Chrysler in January 2022 unveiled its first electrical car, the Airflow Concept automotive, with plans to roll it out on the market by 2025. The all-wheel drive Airflow Concept automotive could be pushed by two 150kw electrical motors, one in entrance and one within the rear, if it was developed. But that will not be the case in any case.
Chrysler Changes Plans for First Electric Vehicle
Chrysler Brand CEO Chris Feuell has modified instructions from the Airflow Concept to a big crossover idea that did effectively at buyer clinics earlier this yr, MotorDevelopment reported. The crossover will use the Stellantis massive platform designed primarily for electrical automobiles with a few of Airflow’s options and aesthetics but it surely has a extra fashionable and tech-forward design.
The Chrysler crossover might be provided with each 400- and 800-volt techniques for quick charging and might be out there in customary and long-range model, with a charging vary of as much as 400 miles. The title of the brand new mannequin reportedly won’t be Airflow, however the firm has not but revealed the title of the brand new EV, which is anticipated to be produced in 2025.

Source: www.thestreet.com
 
#320 ·
JEEP PLANS ON OFFERING A NEXT-GENERATION WRANGLER EV
But Will The Next-Gen Wrangler Be EV Only?
by Zac QuinnMay 28, 2023, 8:00 am


The all-electric Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept
We’ve been watching the progression of the automotive market for a while, and it’s pretty clear that the market will be made up of EVs in the future. That includes the Jeep Wrangler, as Jeep CEO Christian Meunier recently confirmed to UK’s Auto Express that the next-generation Wrangler will take the shape of an electric EV.



Next-Generation Jeep Wrangler EV: First Details
While an all-electric Jeep is not yet available, models like the Wrangler 4xe have been used as a way to test the waters. And it’s been fairly popular; 38 percent of all Wranglers sold within the first quarter of this year have been 4xe models, and is one of the best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicles on the market.

Further, by switching to a fully electric version of the Wrangler, Meunier believes the vehicle’s off-road performance can be enhanced. There is a fully electric Jeep called the Recon on the way, which is expected to reach a 6 on Jeep’s Trail Rating system. Still, the Wrangler will receive a different treatment, specifically regarding features that should boost off-road capability.
 
#321 ·
Ram Rampage to be sold in U.S., report says

Stephen Williams
Thu, June 8, 2023





Speculation about the release of a small Ram pickup truck that would face off in the United States against the new Ford Maverick came into sharper focus this week with a report that the previously teased Rampage will be sold in America.
According to The Drive, a compact pickup announced for the South American market and being built in Brazil will slot into Ram’s U.S. lineup before the end of this year. Sources told the website that a pair of Rampage prototypes, under heavy camouflage, were spotted on the road in Colorado. Rumors suggest that the unibody truck would be built in Mexico.
The new Ram Rampage, which has a design package derived from Ram’s 1500 trucks, uses a historical name that dates back to the 1980s. Images released by Stellantis show an American flag engraved into the taillights. Hint, hint.









This Brazilian-market Rampage uses gas and diesel. Available powertrains for domestic models could include the 2.0-liter turbo used in other Stellantis products like the Jeep Wrangler, where it makes 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and a ZF nine-speed transmission. A 2.2-liter turbodiesel is also under consideration, at least until a PHEV and then full-electric version come online eventually. Previous reports suggest front-wheel drive will be standard and all-wheel will be an option.
As for the much-in-demand hybrid Maverick, Ford has said that the 2024 Maverick order book opens up in July, with the truck entering production in November.
Earlier this week, Stellantis shuffled the positions of some of its corporate executives, including current Dodge brand Tim Kuniskis, who will add the role as head of the Ram brand to his portfolio. Kuniskis is a 30-year veteran with what is now Stelllantis, He's worked with several brands within the company and is known for his enthusiasm for ... enthusiasts.
 
#322 ·
Stellantis to enter affordable EV segment with sub-$27,000 model next year
Avatar for Peter JohnsonPeter Johnson| Jun 16 2023 - 11:33 am PT
29 Comments
Stellantis-affordable-EV

Jeep and RAM owner Stellantis plans to release an affordable EV next year as it looks to fend off incoming competition from China.
The low-cost electric car will be released by Citroën, one of 14 brands under the Stellantis umbrella, which includes Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Maserati, to name a few.
Stellantis plans to begin selling the new Citroën affordable EV, the e-C3 city car, early next year with a starting price of around $27,000 (€25,000). With over 186 miles (300 km) range, the Citroën e-C3 city car will compete against the Chinese-made Dacia Spring (€21,000), the upcoming Renault 5 EV, and several lower-priced electric cars imported from China.


According to the brand’s newly appointed CEO, Theirry Koskas (via Bloomberg), speaking with journalists:

Citroën has a history of making affordable cars and it’s role now is to make electric mobility accessible to all. There is no equivalent to this car today.
Europe is seeing the urgency in producing affordable EVs as China-built models continue to take over the region.

In the first quarter, Chinese EV imports more than tripled in Germany, a market known for being an auto industry powerhouse. From January to March, 28% of all EVs imported into Germany were from China, up from just 7.8% last year.

The move by Stellantis follows Volkswagen, who has also released plans for its most affordable EV so far, the ID 2all, starting around $27,000 (€25,000).


Citroën is aiming for a 5% market share in Europe, up from 3.7% last year, according to Koskas. Its new e-C3 city car will be built in Slovakia and launched early next year.

The French automaker also plans a new electric SUV, codenamed CR3, to replace the current C5 Aircross. Stellantis CEO confirmed it would be 100% electric and not likely offered in other variants.

Citroën’s new electric SUV will be one of several launched over the next year. Stellantis is releasing its first electric pickup in the US, the 2025 RAM 1500 REV. Meanwhile, there are plans to open reservations for the first Jeep EVs in North America, the Recon and Wagoneer S, later this year.
 
#323 ·
Stellantis to Change its Strategy in 14 States because of CARB

Vincent Aubé
NEWS
June 19, 2023





The Jeep® brand is creating the Jeep 4xe Charging Network, installing Jeep-branded EV charging stations at or near the trailheads of Jeep Badge of Honor off-road trails over the next year. The trailhead chargers coincide with the launch of 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid — the most technically advanced and eco-friendly Wrangler yet — and will support future electrified Jeep vehicles.
  • Stellantis is not stocking any ICE-powered models in 14 states.
  • Only direct orders can be delivered.
  • 4xe models from the Jeep lineup will be popular in those 14 states.

It’s a trend that’s sure to gain momentum over the coming months and years. With the tightening of North American vehicle emission standards, electrified or purely electric vehicles will take precedence over purely combustion-powered vehicles.
This is already the case with Stellantis vehicles, which no longer ship vehicles equipped with powertrains that run exclusively on gasoline… to some states. According to Automotive News, Stellantis, which includes the Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Maserati brands, will no longer be sending purely combustion-powered vehicles to 14 US states where emissions standards are the same as in California. In other words, these 14 other states follow the rules put forward by CARB (or the California Air Resources Board).
This decision would even be premature, as automakers are not required to comply with these rules, i.e. to sell a certain percentage of zero-emission vehicles, until 2026. This concentration of plug-in hybrid models – think Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe – also affects dealerships in states that don’t have to meet CARB standards. According to the Automotive News report, dealerships in states that don’t meet CARB standards can no longer order PHEVs without a direct order from the consumer.
What’s clear is that this division of the US territory into CARB and non-CARB states will affect not only automakers’ business models, but also car dealerships, at least in the short and medium term.
Stellantis began modifying allocations for the two groups of states around two months ago. In April, the automaker informed its dealers that CARB member states were implementing stricter greenhouse gas standards, retroactive to the 2021 model year. These standards are distinct from the minimum sales requirements for zero-emission vehicles that will begin in 2026.

At the time of writing, almost 36% of the US population lives in the 14 CARB states, while four other states are currently working to adopt California’s standards. In these CARB states, dealerships will have to rely more heavily on a fleet rich in electrified powertrains. As for the other (non-CARB) states, it will be very difficult to obtain electrified models, as manufacturers will be concentrating mainly on states with stricter standards.

In short, this new reality is likely to be commonplace in a few months’ time, and it won’t just apply to vehicles from the giant Stellantis.
 
#324 ·
Derek and Hannah Jeter Appear in 'Take Me Out' Advertising Campaign for Grand Wagoneer
  • Next phase of the multiyear partnership with the Jeters launches with 30-second “Take Me Out” video as part of the Grand Wagoneer summer campaign
  • “Take Me Out” summer marketing campaign will run across multiple media platforms, including television, social media and digital media channels
  • The 30-second spot features music from the iconic ballpark anthem “Take Me Out to the Ball Game"
  • Derek and Hannah Jeter long-term partnership with Grand Wagoneer launched with “Eyes Wide Open” campaign in October 2022
June 19, 2023 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Derek and Hannah Jeter are set to appear in the newest phase of Grand Wagoneer marketing launching this summer as part of the couple’s long-term partnership with the brand. The 30-second spot, “Take Me Out,” will run across television, social media and digital media channels.

Grand Wagoneer “Take Me Out” | Derek & Hannah Jeter

Go places so memorable you don’t care if you ever get back.




"'Take Me Out' is a fitting anthem for our Wagoneer summer creative campaign," said Marissa Hunter, senior vice president of marketing, Stellantis North America. "Pairing this iconic baseball theme song with the Wagoneer lifestyle to organically share themes of adventure, freedom and American heritage is timed perfectly to the start of the baseball season and Derek’s new role within the sport. Premium visual settings and experiences are captured to elevate the original song themes, delivering storytelling in a more powerful and meaningful way."


“Summer typically means family road trips, ballgames, campfires and adventures around every corner for the entire family, and the Wagoneer’s legendary capability, premium American craftmanship and modern mobility brings a new level of sophistication and excitement to our customers to fulfill that promise for the season,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president, Jeep brand North America. “As Derek and Hannah’s family and horizons expand, we couldn’t be prouder to have the Grand Wagoneer carry their family to wherever their travel takes them.”

The 30-second spot features music from the iconic ballpark anthem “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” which showcases Derek and Hannah and some of their favorite hobbies and family moments, to drive home the message of “don’t care if you ever get back." The spot will run across social media and digital media channels in addition to television, including major sports programming such as MLB baseball. Derek Jeter recently joined the MLB on FOX team, beginning with the 2023 season.

Both the “Take Me Out” and Grand Wagoneer“Eyes Wide Open” campaigns were created in partnership with Highdive agency in Chicago.

Wagoneer by Jeep
Wagoneer returns as a premium extension of the Jeep® brand while continuing its legacy as the original premium SUV. Building on a rich heritage of premium American craftsmanship while offering a new level of comfort, legendary 4x4 capability and customer service, Wagoneer forges a new path – one that defines the new standard of sophistication, authenticity and modern mobility. Offering a unique and premium customer service experience, Wagoneer delivers warm, capable, innovative and authentic vehicles with premium design cues and technology to a new, distinctive and successful array of customers. Combining these attributes with strong SUV credentials, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer build on the original premium SUV by defining the next generation of an American icon. Stellantis offers a portfolio of brands and is a leading global automaker and mobility provider. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.
 
#325 ·
Ram Gives Insiders an Exclusive Sneak Peek of the 2025 Ram REV BEV

Posted: June 30, 2023

Automotive parking light Wheel Tire Vehicle Car


People who have joined Ram's Revolution insider's group for information about the all-new 2025 Ram REV battery electric truck received an email with new details about the all-electric vehicle.

Ram is giving its fans an inside look at the all-new 2025 Ram REV EV pickup that is due to go into production next year as a 2025 model. Ram has a lot riding on the new model. Ford already has its Lightning out; the Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV are due out late this year. GMC has its HUMMER EV supertruck on the market but that is seen as more of a niche vehicle. The real competition will be in the full-size pickup truck market, just like in the gas-powered pickup truck arena.
A spokesperson named Ariana gives the latest on the 2025 Ram REV EV.

2025 Ram 1500 REV

The all-new pickup has some impressive numbers. The truck will be available will 500 miles of range and be able to tow up to 14,000 pounds. The all-new truck will be able haul a payload of up to 2,700 pounds and be able to add 110 miles of range in just ten minutes. Ram doesn’t mention it in the video but supposedly there will also be another model called the Ram 1500 REV XR available later with what it is calling “class-shattering range”.


The truck is expected to have a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, 654 horsepower and 620 lb.-ft. of torque. It should have up to 24 inches of water fording, good news for all of the potential off-roaders


2025 Ram REV’s Other Popular Amenities
The frunk will have a class-leading 15 cubic feet of space for plenty of protected storage.
The video provides some interesting details and video of the truck’s premium interior. The driver will have a 14.5-inch touchscreen with plenty of different pages that can be customized. The infotainment system will be the latest Uconnect 5. The passenger will also have a 10.25-inch touchscreen that can also be personalized. The driver will have a digital rearview mirror and Head-up Display (HUD).

The Ram REV will feature 24-way heated and cooled, ventilated, leather, massaging seats. The premium interior will also feature a 23-speaker Klipsch sound system.
Ariana reiterated the initial Stellantis mantra about the EV pickup. “The 2025 Ram 1500 REV was not designed to be the first electric pickup truck, it was designed to be the best electric pickup truck."
 
#326 ·
Chrysler’s Design Boss Ralph Gilles Clarifies Airflow EV Concept Will Evolve
It seems that the Chrysler Airflow EV concept from 2022 is not entirely scraped after all


 Chrysler’s Design Boss Ralph Gilles Clarifies Airflow EV Concept Will Evolve

Following the reports about the death of the Chrysler Airflow EV concept from last May, design boss Ralph Gilles felt the need to clarify some things that were allegedly “misunderstood”. Gilles said that the design of the EV concept will evolve, instead of being scraped for an entirely new proposal as it was initially believed. However, he admitted that the final product will not look “verbatim like the concept” as it will forge a “refreshing new direction” for the brand.
The designer shared his thoughts on his Instagram profile in an effort to defend the styling of the Airflow EV which was first shown in June 2021 before being exhibited in various shows as a preview for a future production vehicle. Gilles said that the electric crossover was “just the beginning of the story”, adding that it embodies “a myriad of concepts we are cooking up with the extended and now even more capable Stellantis apparatus”.


The design boss said that his team is still exploring the themes of electrification, advanced infotainment, sustainable cabin materials, aerodynamics, automated driving, etc, which were highlighted in the Airflow EV. We understand that Gilles wanted to stop the speculation about the new CEO not being happy with their efforts at the design studio.
As a refresher, the original report suggested that Chrysler CEO, Christine Feuell, sent designers back to the drawing board, challenging them with creating “something even better” than the Airflow EV. According to Ralph Gilles, the resulting proposal is among the designs he is the most excited about, proving they agree on the future direction of the troubling Stellantis brand.

The next evolution of Chrysler’s design will be presented sometime in 2024, with the unveiling of the next concept. Hopefully, this one will closely preview the production model which is set to follow in 2025 and give us more hints about it. Chrysler’s Tesla-rivaling proposal is expected to ride on the new STLA underpinnings and have a more tech-forward approach.
 
#327 ·
The Durango is being replaced by.. The 2025 Dodge Stealth SUV? What is Going On?


It is being rumored that the 2025 Dodge Stealth will be replacing the outgoing Durango as Dodge's primary 3rd row SUV offering. This seems like an odd play considering the old school Dodge Stealth was a compact sports car that was beloved by many enthusiasts. Is this a good move by Dodge? Is Dodge just going to produce SUV's for the masses moving forward?
 
#328 ·
First Chrysler EV Will Drop Airflow Name, Be Previewed By New Concept
Set to be unveiled next year, the new concept is so different that it doesn't even use the Airflow name.
Chrysler Airflow Graphite concept


Aug 01, 2023

Dan Mihalascu


We already knew that Chrysler's Airflow concept would not make it to production after the automaker confirmed in May that the design study was not a direct preview of the brand's first EV expected in 2025.
Despite the fact that it looked quite production-ready, the Chrysler Airflow study was not deemed modern enough by Chrysler's new boss, Chris Feuell. After taking office in September 2021, the executive pushed for a new, more modern design for the brand's first EV than what the Airflow concept proposed.
As it turns out, Chrysler has already created a new large two-row crossover concept that has a more modern design than the Airflow, according to Stellantis chief designer Ralph Gilles. It's so different that it doesn't even use the name Airflow, and the production model won't either.


Speaking to MotorTrend, Gilles said the change came at the request of new Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell, who "wanted a statement that had literally zero to do with anything that you have seen today, even the Airflow concept car."
While the Airflow was "a great exercise to signal again the type of vehicle Chrysler might want to do," the team aimed to beat their own design under Feuell's new direction. The result is a vehicle that Gilles is very excited about, and he's not the only one. Chrysler's large crossover concept also did well at customer clinics in Los Angeles earlier this year.

Chrysler Airflow Graphite Concept front three-quarter viewChrysler Airflow Graphite Concept side viewChrysler Airflow Graphite Concept front viewChrysler Airflow Graphite Concept front three-quarter view
"So, we know we have a hit on our hands," Feuell said. Gilles was even more enthusiastic, noting that Chrysler's new EV concept "blew the doors off." He added that Stellantis designers are pretty stoked about it.
While the Airflow concept was created on the Chrysler Pacifica's RU platform, the production crossover will use the automaker's STLA Large platform designed primarily for electric vehicles. This provides key advantages like better proportions, a flat floor with batteries laid in the floor, and more advanced electrical architecture.
According to Feuell, Chrysler first production EV borrows some of the Airflow's features and aesthetics but has a more modern and tech-forward design inside and out. It also gets a lot of STLA technology, including the choice of 400- and 800-volt systems for fast charging and standard and long-range versions – the latter offering up to 400 miles (643 kilometers).
Chrysler's new concept won't be revealed to the public until next year, but the production-intended vehicle was shown to dealers to reassure them that Stellantis is investing in the brand.
The automaker hasn't yet decided on a name for its first EV, but
Feuell is excited about the short list of names. It won't be called 300, though, with a new name being more likely than resurrecting a legacy name. "We are definitely not going down t
 
#329 ·
All-New 2025 Chrysler EV SUV Goes STLA Large, Gets a Fresh Look
The AirFlow concept got Chrysler's all-electric crossover ball rolling, but things have since changed.
Chrysler Airflow concept reveal 1

SEE ALL 41 PHOTOS
Related Video


Alisa PriddleWriterManufacturerPhotographer
Aug 11, 2023
WHAT IT IS: Chrysler's first electric crossover will be based on the Airflow concept we first saw in January 2022 and an updated version of the large two-row SUV concept a few months later. The sleek crossover previews the styling and advanced tech we can expect from future Chryslers. The tech part still rings true, but the look has gone more modern under Chrysler Brand CEO Chris Feuell. The production model will probably not carry the Airflow name when it goes on sale in 2025, based on our latest interviews.



2022 Chrysler Airflow Graphite Concept 2022 New York International Auto Show NYIAS 1

SEE ALL 41 PHOTOS
WHY IT MATTERS: Chrysler will be down to a single model—the Pacifica minivan—for more than a year until the electric SUV joins the lineup in 2025. The first EV will be followed by at least one new model per year through 2028, reviving and redefining the Chrysler marque.

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004 2023 Chrysler Airflow side

SEE ALL 41 PHOTOS
PLATFORM AND POWERTRAIN: While the Airflow concept was based on the RU minivan platform, the production crossover will use the Stellantis STLA Large architecture, which is designed for battery electric vehicles but can also accommodate hybrids with internal combustion engines. Chrysler plans to offer it with both 400- and 800-volt systems for fast charging.
Standard and long-range versions will feature a range of up to 400 miles, likely with a 118-kWh battery pack. Entry trims could have a single motor, with dual motors delivering all-wheel drive. Look for STLA Brain tech to support cloud connectivity and STLA SmartCockpit to handle the hardware, screens, and computers. STLA AutoDrive will provide Level 3 autonomous driving.
002 2023 Chrysler Airflow front

SEE ALL 41 PHOTOS
ESTIMATED PRICE: $55,000

Chrysler Airflow 56

SEE ALL 41 PHOTOS
EXPECTED ON-SALE DATE: 2025
 
#330 ·
What's New for 2024: Jeep® Grand Cherokee L
August 10, 2023 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The 2024 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L expands the Grand Cherokee family into the popular three-row segment, delivering exceptional performance, comfort and functionality while continuing Grand Cherokee’s legacy as the most awarded and celebrated SUV ever, with legendary 4x4 capability, on-road refinement, and premium styling and craftsmanship inside and out. Built on an advanced architecture, the three-row Grand Cherokee offers spacious seating capacity for up to seven passengers and individual climate zones throughout the cabin for personalized comfort. The three-row Grand Cherokee L, two-row Grand Cherokee and electrified Grand Cherokee 4xe represent the most comprehensive Grand Cherokee lineup yet.

The state-of-the-art Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers an array of advanced standard and available safety and security features, including advanced driver-assist systems, 360-degree surround view and night vision cameras, plus next-generation technologies, including 10-inch digital screens, Uconnect 5 – the most advanced Uconnect system ever, windshield Head-up Display (HUD), digital rearview mirror, rear-seat monitoring camera and a premium 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

New for 2024
  • Grand Cherokee L Limited gets new standard 18-inch polished / painted aluminum wheels
Highlights
  • Legendary off-road capability courtesy of three 4x4 systems – Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II with rear electronic limited slip differential (ELSD); all three systems are equipped with an active transfer case to improve traction by moving torque to work with the wheel with the most grip
  • Global unibody vehicle architecture, independent front and rear suspensions and class-exclusive Quadra-Lift air suspension with semi-active damping deliver class-leading capability and premium on-road driving dynamics
  • Best-in-class ground clearance of 10.9 inches and up to 24 inches of water-fording capability
  • Class-leading Jeep Selec-Terrain switch with selectable terrain modes is standard on Grand Cherokee L 4x4 models (Limited and above), with five available terrain modes (Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, Mud/Sand) to provide optimized calibrations for any given driving scenario
  • Hill-descent Control is standard on Grand Cherokee L Overland and Summit models and works in both forward and reverse
  • The standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6-powered Grand Cherokee L, rated at 290 horsepower and 257 lb.-ft. of torque, tows up to 6,200 pounds, while the available award-winning 5.7-liter V-8 packs 357 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque with best-in-class towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds
  • Each engine mates to the durable, robust TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, which enhances fuel economy and delivers crisp and smooth gear changes
  • Authentic exterior design and world-class craftsmanship convey a refined body style with signature Jeep design cues, including Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille, aggressive front approach angle and trapezoidal wheel arches
  • Full suite of LED exterior lighting is standard on all Jeep Grand Cherokee L trim levels
  • Premium, spacious three-row interior features 10-inch display screens across the instrument panel, ambient LED lighting, driver and front-passenger seat massage and personalized climate zones
  • 10.25-inch dynamic front-passenger touchscreen (available on Limited, Overland and Summit, standard on Summit Reserve)
  • 10.1-inch dual rear-seat entertainment touchscreens (available on Limited and above)
  • Amazon Fire TV Built-In with access to hundreds of thousands of movies, TV shows and apps (available on front-passenger and rear-seat screens when equipped with Rear Seat Entertainment system)
  • Front- and rear-passenger screens feature an HDMI plug to project wireless device content onto the screen and through the Uconnect 5 system
  • Available Grand Cherokee L Limited Black and Summit High Altitude packages include black exterior accents, 20-inch wheels on Limited and 21-inch wheels on Summit
  • Hand-wrapped, quilted Palermo leather, open-pore Waxed Walnut wood, 21-inch wheels and standard premium amenities elevate the Summit Reserve Package to highest levels of luxury
  • Equipped with more than 110 advanced standard and available safety and security features, including an L2 driver-assist system with hands-on automated driving, along with 360-degree surround view and night vision cameras
  • Next-generation technologies, including Uconnect 5 with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, windshield HUD, digital rearview mirror, frameless digital cluster, rear-seat monitoring camera and an exclusive available premium 950-watt, 19-speaker McIntosh audio sound system
  • Jeep Wave customer care program comes standard with all Grand Cherokee L models and includes premium benefits, such as worry-free maintenance, same-day vehicle rentals, 24/7 roadside assistance and dedicated owner support
Model Lineup
For 2024, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L lineup consists of four models:
  • Laredo
  • Limited
  • Overland
  • Summit
Available Exterior Colors
  • Baltic Grey
  • Bright White
  • Diamond Black
  • Midnight Sky
  • Rocky Mountain
  • Silver Zynith
  • Velvet Red
Available Interior Colors
  • Global Black
  • Global Black/Wicker Beige
  • Tupelo
More Information
Please visit the Jeep Grand Cherokee L newsroom for the latest product information, photography and videography, plus access to specifications and feature availability documents.

Jeep Brand
Built on more than 80 years of legendary heritage, Jeep® is the authentic SUV brand that delivers legendary off-road capability, interior refinement, high-tech features and versatility to people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a broad portfolio of vehicles that continues to provide owners with a sense of safety and security to handle any journey with confidence. Jeep Wave, a premium owner loyalty and customer care program that is available to the entire Jeep 4x4 lineup, is filled with benefits and exclusive perks to deliver Jeep brand owners the utmost care and dedicated 24/7 support. The legendary Jeep brand's off-road capability is enhanced by a global electrification initiative that is transforming 4xe into the new 4x4 in pursuit of the brand’s vision of accomplishing Zero Emission Freedom and added 4x4 capability. All Jeep brand vehicles will offer an electrified variant by 2025.
 
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