2009 Detroit Auto Show: Chrysler Jolts EV Lineup with 200C EV Concept

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DETROIT — Chrysler surprised the crowd on the opening day of the 2009 Detroit Auto Show with the rollout of its four-passenger 200C EV, a dramatic, performance-inspired flourish to the automaker's electric-vehicle lineup. The 200C EV is a shortened version of the rear-wheel-drive Chrysler 300C.

Chrysler said the showcar features a 40-mile all-electric range with zero fuel consumption. The four-seat sedan sprints from zero to 60 mph in just 7 seconds and has a top speed "greater than 120 miles per hour," according to the automaker.

"[The Chrysler 200C EV] provides a glimpse at the possibilities for a next-generation Chrysler performance sedan," said Ralph Gilles, Chrysler vice president of design. "With the 200C EV, we were able to maximize the effectiveness of the ENVI powertrain with the stunning, wind-cheating vehicle shape, while pushing toward the future with the avant-garde interior and advanced in-vehicle connectivity."

Key details include a cabin that has been stripped of switches and levers. Chrysler said all of the vehicle functions, settings and uconnect features on the 200C EV are "managed via a panoramic multimedia touchscreen, a passenger-dedicated ‘techno-leaf' and a stowable tablet PC." The techno-leaf houses personal climate controls and an infotainment system.

The 200C EV rides on a 116.1-inch wheelbase versus a 120.0-inch wheelbase on the 2009 Chrysler 300.

Inside Line says: Chrysler strives mightily to keep performance in mind as it rolls out its EV lineup here — but it's still up in the air which of the five vehicles will see the light of day. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent