Although Chrysler has been perceived to be a late entrant into the plug-in hybrid market, it has unveiled its newest plug-in car, the Pacifica, which is quite impressive. Chrysler introduced the minivan more than thirty years ago and has since then made tremendous efforts in improving the MPG scores of its fleet in addition to promoting brand image. The plug-in hybrid car in question is set to officially debut later this year alongside revisions to the conventionally-powered model. Plug-in Pacifica is distinguished by a battery with a capacity of 16-kwh situated beneath the floor of the second row of seats. This battery takes about two hours to fully recharge with a current of 240 V. The model also has an exceptional powertrain revolving around an Atkinson Cycle Pentastar with a capacity of 3.6 liters.
The efficiency of the car in the city on all-electric mode is approximately 80 MPGe, though the hybrid mode or combined gas and electric mode are still unknown. A new feature is a variable transmission that uses a double electric motor system that drives the wheels at the front. A key difference between Pacifica hybrid and other electrification schemes is that the Pacifica utilizes a one-way clutch that makes it possible for the motor to drive the wheels via sending torque. This function is dependent on the car’s driving conditions. Chrysler has noted that the outcome of these alterations and improvements include refinement, enhanced component packaging, and increased efficiency.
Whatever the case, it is essential to improve MPG by including features such as handed pistons in the Atkinson engine. Such features increase the compression ratio to 12.5.1, consequently improving the thermodynamic efficiency. Elimination of a power steering pump and the alternator allows for reworking of the accessory drive and front cover of the engine. Chrysler has also promised minimization of internal friction as well as improvements on fuel injection and ignition.
About 16 years ago, Chrysler had the name Pacifica in its lexicon though the automaker has since then renamed its minivan as well as the conventional counterpart. It is also important to keep in mind that this is the first plug-in version of the minivan with a 30 mile range, making it an excellent PHEV. Its 16-kwh battery is clearly more powerful compared to Hyundai Sonata’s 9.8-kwh and a range of 27 miles. Currently, 2016’s Chevrolet Volt is the highest rated plug-in vehicle with a range of 53 miles. With its Pacifica plug-in, Chrysler has beaten its competitors. Pricing details will be announced later.