Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, Sedans/Saloons, Green, Chrysler, LLC.
Detroit 2009: Chrysler 200C Concept, what the Sebring should have been [w/VIDEO]
by Jonathon Ramsey on Jan 11th 2009 at 2:06PM 
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Chrysler 200C Concept
We were beginning to worry that the 300C was all Ralph Gilles had in him. But if the Chrysler 200C Concept is what Chrysler's styling star can bring to the hitherto dull banquet of Chrysler design, then he should have been placed in charge long ago. It is absolutely gorgeous - check out those wheels - and to our eyes, at least, this is what the straked nonsense known as the Sebring should have been (or at least, what it could have looked like).
A range-extended four-passenger sedan, the car is about the size of a BMW 5-Series. A rear-wheel-driver powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that includes a "small gasoline engine" - Chrysler didn't say how small - aided by a lithium-ion batteries and an electric generator putting out 55kW (74 horsepower) of continuous power. The system's combined forces are good for 200 kW (268 hp) of peak power. The car can go 40 miles on electric power alone (a number that sounds rather familiar), and has an estimated range of up to 400 miles. The 200C is not a slowpoke, either, with a predicted 7-second blast to sixty, and a top speed north of 120.
Inside, the 200C Concept is crammed with enough tech to guide a starfleet. The interactive dashboard is infinitely changeable, internet enabled (via Chrysler's uConnect), and tied into security cameras and street cameras when you want to see how long the line is out front of the Delta Terminal at Detroit Metro. Even better, you can control everything from the integrated tablet PC in the glovebox or from an iPhone-like controller - even roll down the windows and check on the status of the car. And the technology leaf for the passenger also gets a huge shoutout. You can read all about it in the minutely thorough press releases after the jump, and the live presser video is also available. Also, check out the galleries of high-res photos below.
Gallery: Chrysler 200C Concept
Gallery: Detroit 2009: Chrysler 200C EV
PRESS RELEASE
Chrysler 200C EV Concept
Contemporary design, Range-extended Electric Vehicle drive system and platform for future connectivity
• Inspired and soulful look at the new Chrysler DNA
• Beauty and brains coalesce in Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle with design and technology appeal
• Futuristic in-vehicle connectivity takes center stage
• ENVI's Range-extended Electric Vehicle drive system with 400-mile range
• 40-mile all-electric range with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions
The definitive blend of design and technology, the all-new Chrysler 200C EV concept redefines the idea of responsible mobility with a touch of class and sophistication never before embodied so elegantly in one vehicle.
"The Chrysler 200C EV concept represents the perfect blend of provocative design and leading-edge technology, as well as the new Chrysler DNA," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "Chrysler's latest concept vehicle combines the benefits of progressive, ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicle technology – which offers nearly zero emissions during daily commutes – with a design that boasts a combination of modern shapes, a planted athletic stance with classic overtones and an undeniably luxurious interior.
"What makes the Chrysler 200C EV concept even more meaningful is the use of technology that will make traveling and managing one's life an absolute pleasure," Klegon added. "The 200C EV concept is a connectivity portal to the world outside, creating a rewarding relationship between driver and automobile. The result is a driving experience that celebrates the human instinct to be connected to our world."
The Chrysler 200C EV concept body was designed to manage aerodynamic forces while delivering a stunning form.
On the inside, the 200C EV continues the theme of embracing the future with a highly sculpted and richly appointed environment. The interior is free of switches and levers. All vehicle functions, settings and uconnect features are managed via a panoramic multimedia touch screen, a passenger-dedicated "techno-leaf" and a stowable tablet PC.
Based on a shortened version of Chrysler's successful rear-wheel-drive platform, the Chrysler 200C EV is a performance sedan in a package that looks spirited and agile. It delivers a blend of style, performance and amenities that both automotive and technology enthusiasts want.
"The Chrysler 200C EV embodies our passion for problem solving by combining the best of engineering and automotive design," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – 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.
"Designed for the car lover, the Chrysler 200C EV was inspired by Chrysler's dynamic design legacy, and provides a glimpse at the possibilities for a next-generation Chrysler performance sedan," Gilles added.
Simple and Elegant Exterior Styling
The Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle evokes timeless beauty, coupling the organic form and language of Chrysler's deep design roots with the noble proportions of the Chrysler 300 to create a modern product statement that appeals to both luxury and sports car enthusiasts.
"It was important to design a car that not only appealed to the Chrysler enthusiast, but also could sway the interest of a wide variety of potential customers," said Nick Malachowski, Chrysler 200C EV Lead Exterior Designer. "The essence of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle is sophisticated and fresh. It embraces a more organic design philosophy and helps to push the Chrysler brand design to the next level."
Efficiency is a key element in the design of the Chrysler 200C EV, as its swept-back front end contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamics. The front fascia is a modern interpretation of the winged Chrysler badge, and its distinct grille continues to shape and evolve Chrysler's brand identity. The encompassed grille bars within the front fascia reinforce the sinuous elegance of the 200C EV concept vehicle with its assertive shape and precise execution.
The headlamps and taillamps are treated as dramatic sculptural elements on the vehicle and reinforce the organic form and function carried throughout the design theme. Their placement on the far corners of the vehicle help to visually reduce the front and rear overhangs and contribute to the vehicle's efficient appearance. The lower frontal fog lights and rear backup lights are seamlessly integrated onto the surrounding fascia, and are minimized in scale through the use of LED technology. Modern graphic cues, such as the use of a dissipating dot matrix, are utilized throughout the concept vehicle as both functional and visual elements.
The Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle projects a confident stance and proportion with its optimized wheel-to-body relationship. The clean body-side and restrained line work communicate an elegance achieved only when the "less is more" rule of modern design is followed. Simple, modern details such as aerodynamic mirrors and door handles continue the marriage of form and function.
The eco-friendly, water-based Liquid Graphite Pearl exterior color of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle is a luminous, dark gray, which conveys a serious and sophisticated attitude. The windows are tinted in a Warm Bronze, helping to reduce air-conditioning loads. They are surrounded in hand-crafted polished aluminum accent trim.
Comfort and Connectivity Define Interior Space
Maximizing interior comfort, utilizing space and creating a connected environment were key objectives in creating the interior of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle. Natural, luxurious, organic materials and modern furniture design served as inspiration for the interior design team.
In contrast to the exterior color, the interior space is light and inviting. On the inside, Leaf Green LED lighting and stitching accentuates the organic, clean shape. A combination of Pearl, Graphite and Leaf Green colors combine to create a warm and inviting interior cabin.
"The interior space of the 200C EV concept vehicle is defined by a modern, sculptural form and language that doesn't sacrifice an open and spacious feel," said Ryan Patrick Joyce, Chrysler 200C EV Lead Interior Designer. "If occupants are given the choice to take the short or long route home, I want the interior to inspire them to choose the long way."
Immediately noticeable upon entry is the large screen located on the instrument panel. Starting the vehicle activates the electronic instrument panel that contains an advanced electronic vehicle information center, the next generation of Chrysler's uconnect infotainment system and a compound touch surface.
The compound touch surface is a touch screen that serves as the hub for the vehicle's connectivity system – a system that offers endless avenues of communication and transforms the interior into a portal to the outside world. It can be personalized to suit different drivers or simplified based on preference. Similar to recently introduced touch-screen electronic devices, the driver is able to move images, select infotainment choices and customize images, backgrounds, mood, volume and lighting by simply touching the screen itself.
The emphasis on open space is a hallmark of Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle. An aluminum appliqué dramatically sweeps from the center console, across the instrument panel and onto the passenger's door. The first-row compartment strays from traditional 50/50 seating and has been cleverly designed to give the perception of a more spacious 60/60 seating space. The driver and passenger seats, thin in design with a focus on spinal support, are covered in Pearl chromium-free leather and trimmed with Leaf Green stitching, giving the interior a sporty and luxurious look. All four bucket seats can be heated or cooled with individual temperature controls.
The first-row passenger has access to a techno-leaf that houses personal climate controls and an infotainment system. A simple touch to the smooth glass surface deploys a personal touch screen computer from the glove box. Users can surf the Internet, scroll through their personal media library, schedule vehicle maintenance or send directions to the driver. The compartment located below the techno-leaf is a charging station for personal mobile devices. Electronic devices can be charged by simply laying the unit on the charging pad. Rear passengers have access to a similar charging compartment under the cantilevered front-console arm rest.
The thick-rimmed, one-spoke steering wheel is trimmed in two types of leather. The top of the steering wheel is wrapped in Pearl leather and the lower is covered in Graphite leather accented with Leaf Green perforations. The steering column and stalks are milled from aluminum for a precise, technical feel. Drivers can move the transmission into drive positions via the right stalk. The horn pad is draped in Pearl leather with Leaf Green stitching and is dramatically swept back and emboldened with the Chrysler winged badge.
Climate control for the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle can be utilized indirectly or directly. Indirectly, air flows through the cabin via a metal-mesh outlet located near the windshield. Air can be pointed onto occupants through an illuminated metal-mesh bezel that surrounds the driver screen and passenger outboard vents.
Interior doors on the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle are two-tone. The top-half of the door is trimmed in Pearl leather with Leaf Green stitching and polished aluminum accents; the lower-half is an extension of the flooring.
The concept vehicle flooring is inspired by a Zen rock garden. Gentle Graphite waves flow from the floor, across the sides of the center console and undulate onto the doors. Removable carpeted floor mats are practical and sustainable as they are composed of recycled nylon.
Additional storage can be found in the trunk of the vehicle, which contains a load floor made from recycled leather.
Advance Interior Design Studio
The interior of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle was created in Chrysler LLC's Advance Interior Design Studio. The primary goal of this studio is to improve the quality and fit and finish on all future Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep® vehicles. By using state-of-the-art design software and computer modeling processes, interior designers can achieve quality and fit and finish objectives faster than ever before. Implementation of the Advance Interior Design Studio has enabled the company to engage suppliers up to a year earlier, allowing more time for customer research, feature approval and material selection. The Advance Interior Design Studio features a dedicated, customer-focused, interior-centric team of designers and engineers.
ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicle Technology: The Chrysler 200C EV concept is the newest Chrysler ENVI electric-drive vehicle.
Utilizing ENVI's Range-extended Electric Vehicle technology, the Chrysler 200C EV concept boasts clean, quiet elegance and seamless acceleration, underscoring the engaging driving experience of the Chrysler brand.
Capable of driving up to 40 miles on battery-only power – using zero gasoline and producing zero tailpipe emissions – the 200C EV uses a small gasoline engine and integrated electric generator that produces electricity to extend the driving range to 400 miles.
Chrysler 200C EV Concept – Vehicle Specifications
Vehicle Type Range-extended Electric Vehicle, 4-passenger sedan
Weight and Dimensions
Length 192.1 inches / 4879 mm
Width 73.6 inches / 1870 mm
Height 57.3 inches / 1455 mm
Wheelbase 116.1 inches / 2948 mm
Track front / rear 63 inches / 1600 mm 63 inches / 1600 mm
Turn circle 33.4 feet / 10.1m
Powertrain and Suspension
Layout Rear-wheel drive
Motor Peak Power: 200 kW (268 hp), Regenerative braking
Battery Lithium-ion battery
Suspension Front - Independent, Rear - Independent
Range extender SULEV gasoline engine and electric generator, Continuous electric power: 55 kW (74 hp)
Wheels and Tires
Tire size front P245 / 45R20 28.7 inches / 728 mm
Tire size rear P245 / 45R20 28.7 inches / 728 mm
Color Scheme
Exterior Liquid Graphite Pearl
Interior Pearl / Leaf Green accents
Key Performance Attributes
0-60 mph (0-100 kph) approximately 7 seconds
Standing ¼-mile mid-14 seconds
Top speed greater than 120 mph (approximately 193 kph)
All-electric range 40 miles (approximately 64 km)
Total driving range up to 400 miles (approximately 644 km)
PRESS RELEASE
Chrysler 200C EV Concept: Platform for future Chrysler Connectivity Features
"uconnect future" to let consumers combine on-line and on-road worlds
• Convenience: new levels of connecting the vehicle to the home and digital lifestyle
• Socialization: in-car social media capability to create "buddy vehicles" with technology similar to MySpace, Facebook and Twitter
• Synchronization: consumers can keep schedules, music, friends and life in synch, even when in their vehicle
The passion for state-of-the-art, transformational vehicle connectivity continues at Chrysler LLC, as demonstrated in the all-new Chrysler 200C EV concept. Delivering unprecedented connectivity in the areas of convenience, socialization and synchronization, the Chrysler 200C EV connects consumers' on-line and on-road environments in state-of-the-art fashion as consumers begin to treat their vehicles as their second home.
"Chrysler is already offering a wide and diverse portfolio of connectivity and infotainment features under its popular uconnect umbrella," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "The 200C EV concept demonstrates Chrysler's 'uconnect future' – a host of unique, trend-setting innovations that will ultimately provide unprecedented convenience to consumers."
The Chrysler 200C EV concept's advanced connectivity features focus on three primary areas: convenience, socialization and synchronization.
Convenience
Personalized profile
Chrysler's advanced connectivity system welcomes the driver, and operator-specific options display on-screen settings.
Settings include radio with audio tagging – allowing occupants to purchase music by clicking on the Mopar icon. Access to Internet radio, stored MP3s, seating position and temperature, are also featured.
Additionally, a "teen setting" can be placed on the vehicle to limit speed and warn the owner if the vehicle is being driven erratically or out of a specific range from home.
Navigation upgrade
A next-generation navigation system features a link to city-street cameras, allowing vehicle occupants to view traffic situations in specific intersections, roadways and airport security terminals in real-time.
Much like an aircraft navigation system, real-time weather data is available to the driver.
Additionally, this advanced system can anticipate fuel efficient routes and provide route recommendations to the driver.
Socialization
Vehicle networking
Using a format similar to existing web sites such as Facebook and Twitter, other vehicles can be added to Chrysler's system which links "buddy" vehicles. Among other capabilities, this feature can show vehicle locations of friends, share directions and music, and provide "instant messaging" capabilities. Drivers can also create their own vehicle networking systems.
Passenger PC
Hidden in the dashboard is a personal computer that neatly slides out for front-seat passenger use. This computer gives the front-seat passenger the ability to use the Internet, access the navigation system, run vehicle diagnostics and read the owner's manual, among other capabilities. All Internet features are available, from video conferencing to checking restaurant reviews and making dinner reservations on Zagat's from the vehicle. The personal computer can be passed from the front-seat passenger to passengers in the rear.
Synchronization
Home/office link
This feature adds a harmonious link between the vehicle and the home and office. System capabilities include monitoring home and office, adjusting home/office lighting, powering up home appliances and utilizing intercoms.
Cell phone fobs
This technology links a "smart" phone to the vehicle. The phone can be programmed to allow starting of the vehicle, adjust power windows and locks and set vehicle temperature.
In addition, an in-vehicle camera can monitor security of the vehicles.
In the event of a lost or stolen vehicle, the phone can disable the vehicle and locate it using satellite imaging.
Finally, the system can relay diagnostic information to the phone, keeping the owner apprised of vehicle systems, such as state of battery charge.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 7)
Indy 2:08PM (1/11/2009)
They'll never build anything like this. Hell, they wont be building anything in late 2009. Chrysler = BK!
Toyota FTW!
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Ligor 3:24PM (1/11/2009)
u kidding
toyota has never made somethig that looks this good
and this will come to production with nary a change
watch out Lexus cause even they can't match this beauty
Flashpoint 3:27PM (1/11/2009)
This bodystyle is EXACTLY what we better see from Chrysler from now on.
If they wanna call it 200C, ok, but it might as well be called SEBRING 2010
I own a 300, and I want to see them make a new, better 300C to top their full sized sedan offering.
happy_penguin 4:00PM (1/11/2009)
Toyoduh FTL!
TurboCharged 2:13PM (1/11/2009)
This Concept is beautiful. Period.
Hopefully (probably not though) Chrysler makes this as is (just with a more "normal" interior. Cuz on the outside this thing is HOT!
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zamafir 2:14PM (1/11/2009)
I'm with you, from the outside all the proportions are correct and i'm especially impressed with the creases near the tail lights. The interior, however, reminds us that like the ME 4 12 this is just a concept and will be relegated to Pebble Beach duty before being shut away for good. Pitty that. If Chrysler actually had the money to build something like this I'd be ecstatic with the prospect.
Tool 2:47PM (1/11/2009)
I agree. This is a great looking concept. Maybe the sleeper hit of the show.
It makes you wonder why Chrysler couldn't do a car like this years ago instead of that monstrosity known as the Sebring.
Why does Chrysler need to be on the brink to bring out its best stuff?
Mike 3:40PM (1/11/2009)
You're right. This concept is ready for production as is...but knowing Detroit it will be watered down and neutered before it makes it to production and be yet another flop.
The best thing that could happen to America is to let these ancient companies die to open the market to young competition.
Judy Zik 6:25PM (1/11/2009)
Amazing looking concept. The real question is will this fit on an Altima platform or does Chrysler have a revamped Sebring platform up it's sleeve? Either way drop all the pie in the sky Star Trek stuff and give us a real car with a real interior and put it into production now. This company can't afford to wait.
Only a Passerby 11:47PM (1/11/2009)
The car is indeed gorgeous, but there is one problem with this design: It's only an adoption of the design language that other car makers already use in their current production models, e.g. the upwards bent head lights remind me very much of what toyota uses in their LS/GS series, and what merc has recently taken to the extreme with their new C class. Then the straight line along the side of car and inwards bent door sheets, while everything else is quite curvey, can also be found on quite many cars that are around today, e.g. have look at the bimmer Z4. I don't want to say that it's a cheap copy of other companies' design, because that's what everyone else also does; but this is only concept, while the other cars mentioned, are already in production..
Frank 8:20AM (1/12/2009)
"It makes you wonder why Chrysler couldn't do a car like this years ago instead of that monstrosity known as the Sebring."
Answer: Nickel & Daimler. When Chrysler introduced the ME412 concept (Chrysler called it a "prototype") a few years ago, Stuttgart went ballistic and took Dieter to the woodshed. They didn't want Chrysler coming out with anything that could outdo the SLR. If they still ran Chrysler today you can bet this would NEVER have the chance to see production (too much competition with their C class). At least now there is some hope.
renshcp 9:16AM (1/12/2009)
This car has me drooling. Just look closely at the tail light
design. The lines of the side character line, and upper and lower
trunk creases culminate beautifully into the tail lamp. Every detail
is so well done yet it maintains understated elegance. Easily the
most well done concept of the show.
You can see why Chrslyer thinks they can be right-sized boutique
car maker. If they revamp their entire lineup to consist of
relatively small volume luxury cars without focusing on volume, I
think they could have something. They need to buck the American
mindset that you have to sell something in massive volumes in order
to make money. Huge money can be had with low-volume high-margin
products.
Tang 2:16PM (1/11/2009)
It's too bad they put the current Sebring out first. This thing beats it by eons.
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Franz 2:16PM (1/11/2009)
"... what the Sebring should have been."
Truer words have never been spoken. Too bad Chrysler is notorious for showing us really good concepts, and then end up building crappy cars instead.
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oZ 3:04PM (1/11/2009)
Hopefully, with the removal of Daimler, those days are over.
happy_penguin 3:23PM (1/11/2009)
- for Franz
+ for oZ
Flashpoint 3:45PM (1/11/2009)
This car makes use of new LED lighting techniques and relatively new Polygonal exhaust embedded (like the LS460). How many car companies give you style like this RIGHT NOW?
As far as I know, no other car maker has cars that look like this for an affordable price except the CTS.
It takes time to get these things right. My problem is that there is no room for 3 American companies. There's too much external competition with too many unfair advantages to have 3 domestic companies competing with each other and the rest. Chrysler I think will be dead within 10 years and as a Chrysler 300 owner it hurts me to say that.
gotsmart 2:17PM (1/11/2009)
The design is quite nice, if not almost entirely derivative. Hints of Opel/Vauxhall Insignia and Buick LaCrosse in the front, Pontiac G6 in the rear flanks and a Bangle-esque trunk lip... but overall, it works well, and is a far cry from the disgraceful disarray that was the Sebring.
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Miguel 4:28PM (1/11/2009)
The trunk lip is pure Chrysler. If you recall the late 90's to early 00's Chryslers (and Dodges, for that matter), the trunks had a very obvious concave sweep--predating Bangle's influence at BMW. The front end is also Chrysler's classic styling--the center and side creases in the hood, the large grill--mixed with modern aerodynamics.
happy_penguin mentioned below that he likes the Chrysler look, and that he couldn't tell this was a Chrysler at first glance--I disagree completely. This car isn't derivative. This car brings Chrysler design cues kicking and screaming into the 21st century. And it unmistakably a gorgeous design, free of Daimler overlords.
Too bad it will never see production.
Torrent 2:19PM (1/11/2009)
Chrysler is like saab. great concept-bad production.
this is awesome. something I could buy.
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