Chrysler ENVIous of GM’s Volt, rival coming by 2012

Chrysler will offer its first hybrid models later this September with the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI hybrid . Both will be followed by a version of the Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid . But what does Chrysler have planned to take on the Volt? According to Free Press , a Chevrolet Volt rival from Chrysler could be three to five years away.

The automaker has started a new division called ENVI (pronounced envy) that will focus on bringing electric-cars to the market. Nick Cappa, Chrysler’s spokesman, told Free Press that ‘ENVI is currently developing electric vehicles for the three Chrysler brands and is planning on product within three to five years.’

Dealers are questioning Chrysler why it has not stepped up efforts to offer more hybrids in the market as gas prices are now above $4 per gallon. While Chrysler executives have been saying that every Chrysler model will be offered as hybrid , dealers say that they have been told not to expect any other hybrids from the automaker until 2012.

At the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler showed the 268-hp ecoVoyager Concept. The concept was said to be driven by an electric motor, with power supplied by a lithium-ion battery pack capable of a of less than 40 miles. Sounds very much like the Volt.

2008 Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept:

Source: Free Press