Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept. Click image to enlarge |
Photo Gallery:
Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept
Detroit, Michigan - One of three Chrysler electric vehicle concepts unveiled in Detroit today, the uniquely styled Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept has a lithium-ion battery pack that provides a driving range of 64 km (40 miles) or "a consumer's typical daily commute," according to the automaker. However, its total driving range can be extended to 483 km (300 miles) using its on-board hydrogen fuel cell "range extender" that keeps the battery charged.
Though the ecoVoyager is a zero-emissions vehicle, performance hasn't been overlooked, says the company. The ecoVoyager's 200-kilowatt (268 horsepower) electric motor enables acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in less than eight seconds. A regenerative braking system captures energy to help recharge the battery when braking or coasting.
The entire propulsion system is located below the ecoVoyager's floor, maximizing cabin space. As well, by placing the front wheels farther forward than usual, Chrysler was able to create greater interior roominess and increased legroom, especially in the rear seats.
"The 2008 Chrysler ecoVoyager concept vehicle celebrates the romance of automobile travel embodied in a four-door, four-passenger, distinctively American automobile of spirited design," said Greg Howell, principal ecoVoyager concept exterior designer. "While the ecoVoyager's supple, flowing one-box shape is purposely designed to achieve aerodynamic efficiencies, it also pushes the Chrysler brand language in a new direction of 'elegant simplicity,' by taking full advantage of the space normally occupied by a bulky conventional powertrain set-up to drastically reduce the front overhang."
The ecoVoyager concept features panoramic roof glass bisected by a centre spine, tight body overhangs and a dramatic boat-tail back end. The shapes of the window graphics, headlamps, taillamps and grille openings were inspired by Chrysler's winged badge design.
The ecoVoyager's side doors open a full 90 degrees. Since the rear doors are hinged at the rear and there is no centre B-pillar, entrance into the ecoVoyager is virtually unimpeded. The ecoVoyager's four individual chairs are contoured for personalized comfort and the seat framing is exposed, with under-seat storage drawers. The front seats have individual cantilevered, adjustable armrests containing the window controls and heat/massage switches, while individual rear-seat armrests fold into the cabin back panel. With the ability to store six 20-ounce bottles, the floor console dividing the rear seats accommodates hot or cold beverages.
The Chrysler ecoVoyager's unconventional instrument panel features a broad, leather-covered angled surface, slightly V-shaped in plan view and fronted by a full-width display screen set just below the windshield. The left and right outer ends of this non-glare screen contain the side-view mirror image, while a third camera image in front of the driver serves as the rearview mirror.
Unlike most instrument clusters, only currently-needed information is displayed, designed to be viewed above the steering wheel rim rather than through it (and requiring less up-down eye movement and refocusing). The front-seat passenger can view a movie without its moving images disturbing the driver. A slick, slide-out/retractable center console - fitted with hot-key buttons and a mouse pad - replaces the functions contained in a conventional vertical centre stack.
