Under Fiat SpA, Chrysler has dismantled a team of engineers dedicated to developing a range of electric-vehicles. The move marks a major reversal for Chrysler, which had used its ENVI department and its electric-car program in order to receive $12.5 billion in federal aid.

In August, Chrysler took a $70 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop and test a fleet of 220 hybrid pickups and minivans that are now scrapped from its turnaround plan that CEO Sergio Marchionne announced earlier this week. Spokesman Nick Cappa said that on Friday, Chrysler had disbanded ENVI for a more traditional organization.

“Envi is absorbed into the normal vehicle development program,” Cappa told Reuters.

Under the new plan presented by Marchionne, ENVI’s chief Lou Rhodes will become the executive in charge of developing electric-cars for both Fiat and Chrysler.

Originally, Chrysler had plans to launch its first electric-vehicles by 2010. It had pledged to have 500,000 electric-cars on the road by 2013.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Reuters

There has been a huge buzz recently around electric-vehicles and lithium-ion battery development; however, one automaker ,who was once a key player on the segment, has gone missing – Chrysler Group LLC. Last we heard, Chrysler and its ENVI department had planned to have an electric-car in the showrooms by the end of 2010.

Even during its stay in bankruptcy court, Chrysler submitted three proposals to the U.S. Department of Energy, outlining a $448 million plan to “rapidly bring” electric-vehicles and plug-in hybrids to the market. Following that we heard reports that the once cancelled Lotus Europa-based Dodge Circuit was back in Chrysler’s product plans. In fact, Chrysler had three other electric vehicles that were planned for 2013.

However, today, it’s unclear whether new CEO Sergio Marchionne remains committed to Chrysler’s ENVI electric-vehicle initiatives. Not to mention that Fiat, like other European auto companies, is a big fan of diesels rather than hybrids or electric-cars.

“Chrysler really isn’t in the game at the moment, at least not near enough for us to expect something in showrooms in 12 to 18 months,” Stephanie Brinley of AutoPacific Group.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Free Press

Last we heard, Chrysler had cancelled production of the Europa-based Dodge Circuit electric car due to the credit crunch. The car was a product of the old Chrysler’s ENVI department, which Fiat may decide to kill completely since it may be too costly. However, Chrysler recently announced that it is still committed to producing electric-vehicles – meaning the Dodge Circuit could be back on the drawing board.

According to Lou Rhodes, president of Chrysler’s EVs, a series production of the Dodge Circuit is still a possibility. In a recent interview with CARandDRIVER, Rhodes said that the Circuit would be produced at the Lotus factory and then exported to a U.S. factory for the installation of the electric drivetrain.

He said that Chrysler intends on producing 100,000 electric-vehicles annually. Rhodes said that the production Circuit could undercut the price of Tesla’s Roadster by ”tens of thousands” according to Rhodes.

Dodge Circuit EV:

– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: CARandDriver (via AllCarsElectric)

Despite still being in bankruptcy court, Chrysler announced yesterday that it has submitted three proposals to the U.S. Department of Energy that outlines a $448 million plan to “rapidly bring” electric-vehicles and plug-in hybrids to the market.

The plan represents a 50/50 cost-share opportunity where Chrysler LLC and its partners (meaning Fiat SpA) will invest $224 million combined with a DOE matching that with the same number.

“If approved, Chrysler LLC plans to use funds to build a demonstration fleet of PHEVs and EVs, as well as create a new-vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center located in Michigan.” Chrysler said in statement.

The Auburn Hills automaker said that it will use “as much as $83 million to build a new vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center in Michigan.” That new facility will be responsible for development, testing, manufacturing electric-drive components and the final assembly of EVs and range-extended-vehicles. Chrysler says that the facility will be functional by 2010 and will produce more than 20,000 units per year.

So what EVs and PHEVs does Chrysler have in mind? Proposed models include a Dodge Ram 1500 plug-in hybrid, a Chrysler Town & Country plug-in hybrid and a fully electric Chrysler Town & Country. Chrysler said that it will also provide the U.S. Postal Service with a fleet of 165 Chrysler Town & Country EV minivans for daily mail service in four regions throughout the United States.

“To ensure a robust assessment, Chrysler will demonstrate 100 Chrysler Town & Country PHEV minivans and 100 Dodge Ram PHEV pickup trucks across a range of drive cycles and consumer-usage patterns in diverse geographies and climates throughout the United States,” Chrysler said.

No word on a production version of the Dodge Circuit or the Chrysler 200C EV so for anyone expecting something exciting out of this plan – don’t get your hopes up.

Nonetheless, at least you can say they’re being ambitious and positive while going through bankruptcy.

Check out the press release below for more details.

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Chrysler LLC Submits $448 Million Plan to the U.S. Department of Energy for the Rapid Development and Manufacturing of Electrified Vehicles

- Chrysler LLC submits three proposals, totaling $448 million, for two Department of Energy (DOE) initiatives aimed at rapid vehicle electrification – The Transportation Electrification Initiative and Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative
- The 50/50 cost-share opportunity demonstrates how Chrysler LLC, its partners and the DOE can work together to promote technological innovation and energy independence in the United States
- Proposed vehicles to include Dodge Ram 1500 Plug-in Hybrid-electric Vehicles (PHEV), Chrysler Town & Country PHEVs and Chrysler Town & Country Electric Vehicles (EV)

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 26, 2009 – Chrysler LLC today announced the company has submitted three proposals outlining a $448-million plan to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in order to rapidly bring Electric Vehicles (EV) and Plug-in Hybrid-electric Vehicles (PHEV) to market.

Chrysler LLC applied for two initiatives established by the DOE-the Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative and the Transportation Electrification Initiative. Both are designed to speed up development, demonstration, evaluation and manufacturing of EVs and PHEVs. The programs represent a 50/50 cost-share opportunity with $224 million from Chrysler LLC and its partners, combined with a matching $224 million from the DOE. These funds will accelerate the market introduction and penetration of advanced powertrains.

“These initiatives represent how government and the automotive industry are answering the challenge of reaching common goals and demonstrate how rapidly this type of advanced technology can be brought to market in a collaborative environment,” said John Bozzella, Senior Vice President-External Affairs and Public Policy, Chrysler LLC. “Without U.S. innovation and production capacity, we will simply trade batteries for oil in the pursuit of transportation energy.”

If approved, Chrysler LLC plans to use funds to build a demonstration fleet of PHEVs and EVs, as well as create a new-vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center located in Michigan. The proposal will enable the production of commercially viable products in a shorter time frame. Combined, Chrysler LLC’s proposal will stimulate the economy and help the company achieve its leadership goals in electrified-vehicle development and production.

The Transportation Electrification Initiative
Chrysler LLC’s $365-million submission for the Transportation Electrification Initiative intends to establish a nationwide demonstration fleet of more than 365 test-fleet vehicles for use by select customers and partners. The Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Ram 1500 are popular models in their respective segments and as PHEVs can achieve substantial greenhouse-gas reduction. To ensure a robust assessment, Chrysler will demonstrate 100 Chrysler Town & Country PHEV minivans and 100 Dodge Ram PHEV pickup trucks across a range of drive cycles and consumer-usage patterns in diverse geographies and climates throughout the United States. The company has established more than a dozen partnerships with city and local governments, research and development authorities, utility companies and universities to test the PHEVs.

In addition, through a partnership between Chrysler LLC’s ENVI group and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), Chrysler LLC will deliver 165 Chrysler Town & Country EV cargo minivans for daily mail service in four regions throughout the country. ENVI has created numerous partnerships with energy providers and utility companies in order to develop an electric-vehicle charging infrastructure that will efficiently service its electric-vehicle test fleet.

The Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative
Within the Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative, Chrysler LLC plans to use as much as $83 million to build a new vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center in Michigan. This new facility would house development, testing and electric-drive component manufacturing in addition to final assembly of EVs and Range-extended Electric Vehicles (ReEVs). The complex would be functional by 2010 and produce more than 20,000 units per year.

“These proposals present a win-win situation for Chrysler and, most importantly, our customers,” said Frank Klegon-Executive Vice President, Product Development, Chrysler LLC. “This plan will accelerate our efforts to develop and manufacture electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles, which will reduce the amount of time it will take to get these vehicles on the road.”

Chrysler LLC would utilize both DOE programs as first steps toward the commercialization of “no compromise” electrified vehicle technologies beyond Hybrid-electric Vehicle (HEV) applications currently on the road.

Last month, ENVI, Chrysler LLC’s in-house electric vehicle organization, made multiple announcements aimed at accelerating the market introduction of electric-drive vehicles. The company created a lithium-ion battery production partnership with U.S. based A123Systems and facilitated a new lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant in Southeastern Michigan-a joint program with A123Systems and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Chrysler also announced its plans to address the future needs of fleet customers, such as the U.S. Postal Service, with a pure-electric Chrysler Town & Country EV Cargo minivan.

- By: Kap Shah

With Chrysler going through bankruptcy and giving majority control over to Italian automaker Fiat, it’s a bit unclear where the Auburn Hills automaker’s ENVI electric-vehicle division stands. Recent reports said that the bankruptcy judge or Fiat may decide to kill ENVI completely since it may be too costly.

ENVI was scheduled to deliver its first electric-vehicle in late 2010 with lithium-ion battery packs supplied by A123Systems. The division had created a total of five vehicle concepts but never confirmed which of those five concepts would make it into production. However, last month CNNMoney said that Chrysler’s first production ENVI would be the Lotus Europa based Dodge Circuit.

While that may have gotten many of you excited, a report by AutoCar released today said that the car has been killed.

“The Europa-based Dodge Circuit electric car has been killed by the credit crunch,” reports AutoCar.

Nonetheless, insiders say that Lotus is now talking to European OEM to setup another electric-car program like the Tesla Roadster.

The Dodge Circuit EV is (or was) a pure electric-car that carries a 268-hp electric-motor allowing it to travel 150 miles to 200 miles on a single charge. 0 to 60 comes in under 5 seconds with a top speed of 120 mph.

Dodge Circuit EV:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

So what’s going to happen to Chrysler’s ENVI division and their never-ending lineup of electric-vehicle concepts now that the Auburn Hills automaker has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy? According to a report by earth2tech, now that Fiat will eventually own 35 percent of Chrysler, the company’s ENVI division and its partnership with battery maker A123Systems are up in the air.

Chrysler announced earlier this year that it has partnered with A123Systems to provide advanced Nonophosphate Lithium-ion prismatic battery-cells for its plug-in electric-vehicles. The ENVI lineup, which consists of concepts such as the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep Wrangler EV, Jeep Patriot EV, Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Chrysler 200C EV, was expected to introduce its first production model in 2010. The group was also planning an all-new electric minivan concept for the U.S. Postal Service.

earth2tech said that with Fiat on board, Chrysler’s electric-vehicle lineup could get some lightweight compact and subcompact platforms from the Italian automaker.

J.D. Power and Associates powertrain analyst Mike Omotoso speculates that the bankruptcy judge or Fiat itself may decide to cancel Chrysler’s ENVI program completely since it may be too expensive.

Omotoso said that he expects Chrysler to put all their electric-ambitions on hold until further notice.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Reuters and AutoblogGreen)

We’ve been hearing for some time that Chrysler’s ENVI division will offer its first electric-vehicle in late 2010. However, the Auburn Hills automaker, which recently partnered up with A123Systems to develop lithium-ion battery cells, never mentioned which one of its five ENVI concepts will enter production – until now.

According to a report by CNNMoney, which was recently invited out to test-drive the Chevy Volt prototype, Chrysler’s first battery-powered vehicle will be the 268-hp Dodge Circuit. Of course, that’s if Chrysler lives to see tomorrow.

Unlike the Chevrolet Volt, which will be 5-passenger, tree hugging plug-in electric hybrid with a gasoline engine, the Dodge Circuit will be a pure electric-car with no gasoline engine. It’s 268-hp electric-motor will provide 150 to 200 miles on a full charge with the ability to go from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and a top speed of 120 mph.

“To be able to meet a 2010 timeline, you have to be pretty far along in development, and right now we are,” said Lou Rhodes, head of Chrysler’s electric car program.

The Dodge Circuit is being seen as an electric-sports car that is similar to the $109,000 Tesla Roadster. Pricing for the Circuit has yet to be determined but will most likely undercut the Tesla.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CNNMoney

Chrysler announced today that it has formed a partnership with U.S.-based battery supplier A123Systems for advanced Nonophosphate Lithium-ion prismatic battery-cells that will be used in the company’s first production electric-vehicles.

A123Systems will be responsible for supplying energy storage systems for Chrysler’s first-generation of ENVI REVs (range-extended vehicles) and BEVs (battery-only electric vehicles).

Chrysler currently has five ENVI concepts including the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep Wrangler EV, Jeep Patriot EV, Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Chrysler 200C EV concept. The Auburn Hills automaker hopes to have its first production electric-vehicle on the market by 2010.

Click through for the press release.

Chrysler 200C EV:

Dodge Circuit EV:

Jeep Patriot EV:

Press Release:

Chrysler LLC Forms Strategic Alliance with A123Systems for ENVI Electric Vehicle Lineup

 A123Systems to Supply Michigan-made Lithium-ion Battery

    - Chrysler LLC signs agreement with A123Systems, a U.S.-based battery supplier, for advanced Nanophosphate™ Lithium ion prismatic battery cells, and jointly developed battery modules and battery packs for Chrysler”s Range-extended Electric Vehicle and battery-only Electric Vehicle production programs

    - Partnership reinforces both companies” commitment to expand battery manufacturing technology in the United States, reducing dependency on foreign sources of energy and greenhouse gas emissions

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 6, 2009  -  Chrysler LLC today announced one of its strategic partners and production battery supplier for the company”s first production electric vehicles. Chrysler LLC and A123Systems have signed an agreement stating that A123Systems will supply energy storage systems for Chrysler”s first-generation ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicles and battery only Electric Vehicles. A123Systems is an American battery supplier with plans for a Michigan-based production facility.

“This is a great example of two American companies working together to put cutting-edge technology on the road,” said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President ““ Product Development, Chrysler LLC. “The most significant challenge to electric vehicles is battery technology. The diligent selection of strategic partners like A123Systems helps Chrysler achieve its leadership in electric-drive systems and vehicles.”

“Chrysler’s partnership with A123Systems marks a significant milestone at a critical time in the automotive industry and in the state of Michigan,” said Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. “This strategic alliance that will result in two companies joining forces to develop and produce advanced technology in Michigan will create new jobs in the state, deliver benefits to consumers and contribute significantly to bringing more environmentally friendly vehicles to market.”

The heart of ENVI”s battery system is a scalable battery module, as demonstrated in ENVI”s five electric-drive vehicles showcased at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The five vehicles included the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep® Wrangler EV, Jeep Patriot EV, Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Chrysler 200C EV concept. At the reveal, Chrysler announced its intention to bring the company”s first production electric vehicle to market in 2010.

Individual lithium ion prismatic cells are integrated with a proprietary battery management safety system to create an efficient and flexible energy storage solution. This strategy is integrated in all of Chrysler”s upcoming electric-drive vehicles, helping increase production volumes of the shared battery cell and shared battery module. Chrysler”s approach reduces development time, investment, and overall battery system cost by combining the economics of high-volume component sharing without sacrificing the battery pack flexibility needed to develop a wide range of customer-driven electric-drive vehicles.

“We”re very proud to have been selected to supply advanced battery systems for Chrysler”s family of ENVI electric-drive vehicles,” said David Vieau, President and CEO of A123Systems. “This bold move by Chrysler changes the game and greatly improves our country”s ability to modernize our transportation fleet. We”re confident that our collaboration with Chrysler will serve as proof that American innovation is alive and well and ready to lead the new global market for fuel-efficient electric vehicles.”

A123Systems advanced lithium-ion battery chemistry has the capability of meeting consumer demands for performance, driving range, and durability. A123Systems is currently planning a site in Michigan where it will manufacture Nanophosphate Lithium ion prismatic battery cells, modules and battery packs for Chrysler LLC.

“Chrysler has successfully worked with A123Systems, both directly and through USCAR, for more than 3 years to improve the technology for automotive applications,” said Lou Rhodes, Vice President ““ Advanced Vehicle Engineering and President of ENVI. “We have confidence that by partnering with A123Systems our near-term and long-term electrification goals will be met.”

“Government and society are calling for the introduction of a variety of advanced propulsion vehicles,” said John Bozzella, Senior Vice President ““ External Affairs and Public Policy, Chrysler LLC. “This partnership with A123Systems signifies Chrysler’s commitment to contribute to our nation’s goal of reducing dependence on foreign sources of energy, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Chrysler’s partnership with A123Systems represents a win-win-win for the American consumer, American manufacturing and the environment.”

ENVI ““ letters that represent the first four letters of environment ““ is Chrysler LLC”s entrepreneurial in-house organization focused on electric-drive production vehicles and related advanced technologies. ENVI is a cross-functional, nimble team empowered to move quickly and access vast resources within Chrysler LLC in order to integrate electric- vehicle technology into existing products.

“With ENVI-powered electric vehicles, Chrysler LLC is inspiring a personal mobility revolution, creating a new generation of responsible, no-compromise Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles,” said Klegon.

- By: Omar Rana

Chrysler showed up to Detroit last week with five electric-drive concepts – none of which it has a concrete plan to build. According to Automotive News, Chrysler hopes to put at least one into production next year but the automaker is facing major obstacles.

Unlike its rival General Motors, Chrysler has not confirmed who will supply the lithium-ion battery for its electric-vehicles nor has it set a firm production date.

President of Chrysler’s ENVI division Lou Rhodes said that the company has already decided which one of the five vehicles it plans on producing next year but declined to identify it. He said that Chrysler is testing a total of 100 plug-in hybrids in commercial fleets this year.

Including the Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited EV, Chrysler unveiled a new Jeep Patriot EV, a mid-sized Chrysler 200C EV and the Lotus based Dodge Circuit EV.

Chrysler 200C EV:

Dodge Circuit EV:

Jeep Patriot EV:

No matter how much Chrysler tries to change up its Dodge EV, the fact remains that the car is essentially a Lotus Europa with Dodge badging. In an effort to make the vehicle more Dodge-like, Chrysler is bringing back the Dodge EV under a new name – Dodge Circuit EV – with a couple of its own cosmetic additions.

“The Dodge Circuit EV displays a bold exterior and interior styling with outstanding performance,” says Chrysler. But the only thing changed here is the front lower grille, a new rear-bumper, a new rear-spoiler and the relocation of the plug-in socket. Other than that it’s the same old Dodge EV colored in “Tangogreen” wearing large “EV” graphics on both sides.

The Chrysler ENVI drivetrain remains the same so you’re still going to get 268-hp with a 0 to 60 time of less than 5 seconds and a top speed of 120 mph. Once the lithium-ion battery pack has been fully charged, the power driven to the electric motor will still allow a 150 to 200 mile range.

It’s still a concept joining the range of other ENVI concepts and Chrysler has still not revealed which ENVI concept it will put into production. Nardelli – the clock is ticking sir.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

Dodge Circuit EV: