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Chrysler Looks to Lead Hybrid, Diesel Minivan Segment
Filed under: Opinion, Chrysler , Minivans/Vans, Hybrid
Everything is either going hybrid or diesel these days in response to a market that has tightened their wallets. Minivans, of course, are no exception. What’s interesting is that Chrysler may be leading the way in the U.S. for hybrid minivans.
The Windsor Star reports that, according to J.D. Power and Associates, the American carmaker intends to put its two-mode hybrid in its Dodge Grand Caravan starting next year. The company needs to improve its fuel efficiency numbers under U.S. law as well as for consumer reasons. The smallest of the so-called "Detroit Three" currently lacks the compact car line up and is more heavily skewed towards heavy trucks and SUVs.
Chrysler also has an advanced program to bring electrically powered vehicles to market within five years. Toyota, Volkswagen, and Honda are not far behind in hybrid minivan development, with Toyota planning on offering a hybrid Sierra by 2010.
Diesels can be competitive with hybrids because of the more expensive premiums on hybrids. Chrysler cautions that is what makes a hybrid minivan a less than sure thing. “When they pay that premium they have to get the payback.”
Our take? Nothing too exciting. It’s nice to see that Chrysler is doing something, though.
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