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2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid electrifies the family hauler

The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the first-ever hybrid minivan – why didn't anyone think of this before? The extra jolt of electric propulsion lets Chrysler estimate this hauler can get a very green 80 miles per gallon equivalent, with 30 miles of full electric range. To make those amazing numbers possible, the Pacifica Hybrid uses a version of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that runs on the Atkinson cycle for improved efficiency, matched with an electric motor. A 16-kWh lithium-ion battery sits underneath the second-row floor to supply the energy. The PHEV doesn't launch until the latter half of 2016, but Chrysler currently estimates the powertrain's output at 248 horsepower, versus 287 hp from the non-hybrid Pacifica. Charging the system to full takes just two hours from a 240-volt outlet. Other than the charging port just head of the driver's door and different wheel designs, the Pacifica Hybrid looks the same as the other model. The nearly identical styling isn't a bad thing because this is one of the most attractive minivans ever. The aesthetics are similar inside, too, but the battery removes the ability to stow the second row of seats. However, the third row can still fold flat. First hybrid powertrain in minivan segment "Due to its large footprint and multiple daily trip patterns, the minivan is ideally suited for electrification technology," said Bob Lee, Vice President and Head of Engine, Powertrain and Electrified Propulsion Systems Engineering, FCA – North America. "The all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica lives up to this promise and then some, with efficiency, power and refinement." Launching in second half of 2016, the Pacifica Hybrid is the industry's first electrified minivan. With an estimated 248 horsepower, the vehicle will deliver an estimated range of 30 miles solely on zero-emissions electric power from a 16-kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery. In city driving, it is expected to achieve an efficiency rating of 80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. When the battery's energy is depleted to a certain threshold, the Pacifica Hybrid becomes a part-time electric vehicle, like a conventional hybrid. Power to the wheels is supplied by the electric drive system or supplemented by a specially adapted new version of the award-winning FCA US Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine.

Dodge Demon's deliverer? FCA files for 'Angel' trademark

We've driven the Dodge Demon, and despite its satanic overtones and 840 freakin' horsepower under the hood, the car is actually quite well-behaved. At least it didn't bite our head off or drag us into any sort of inferno. Still, Dodge might be looking to balance its lineup with something with a bit more righteous, as FCA has filed for a trademark of the moniker "Angel."... According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, FCA filed the application on July 17, 2017, and it applies to "Motor vehicles, namely, passenger automobiles, their structural parts, trim and badges." Essentially, that's all the information we have to go on at this point. It could mean that Dodge is planning to further capitalize on the Demon name by creating another variant, or a completely different car. But what's the opposite of the Demon? Could it be a more road-friendly version of the drag-focused Demon? (And wouldn't that just be a Hellcat Widebody with more power?) Maybe it's a performance hybrid, as FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne recently said that the automaker would electrify half its fleet by 2022. For now, we can merely speculate as to what the Angel would be. And you can, too. Get at it in the comments section, below. And while you're at it, what name do you think FCA should trademark next, and what sort of car would that be?Related Video: Related Gallery 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon: First Drive View 37 Photos News Source: US Patent and Trademark Office via FCA Authority Auto News Chrysler Dodge Future Vehicles Performance FCA trademark dodge demon

Chrysler and Fiat are not going away, though the strategy is shifting

BALOCCO, Italy — At FCA's five-year plan extravaganza last week, most of the news was focused on just four brands — Jeep, Ram, Maserati and Alfa Romeo. In fact, Chrysler, Fiat and Dodge weren't even on the day's agenda. That led to some speculation that Chrysler might finally get the axe. Well, rumors of the brand's demise have been greatly exaggerated. In addition to an updated deal with Waymo, FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne expanded on future plans for Chrysler and Fiat during a Q&A session with investors and journalists. Marchionne said that Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat make up only 20 percent of global sales. While that means Jeep, Ram, Maserati and Alfa Romeo make up the bulk of FCA's profits (and most of that comes from Jeep and Ram). Currently, the Chrysler and Fiat brands just aren't important or valuable enough to warrant their own press conferences, but that doesn't mean things are doom and gloom. Marchionne said that both brands still have a future in FCA's portfolio. For Chrysler, that means more vans and possibly crossovers, and only in the North American market. The Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid are doing well enough, so those will continue. Look for a crossover or two to come sometime down the line. Every Chrysler going forward will focus on utility and that's bad news for 300 enthusiasts: Marchionne said flat out that the Chrysler lineup won't contain any cars. Expect hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery-electric versions of each new model. FCA plans to have an electrified version of every global model by 2022. Details were less clear for Fiat's future, though it won't be going away. The only new model that was announced was a new version of the all-electric Fiat 500e, a car Marchionne famously encouraged customers not to buy as the company lost $14,000 on each one sold. For North America, Fiat will focus on "green cars," though what exactly that means is unclear. Expect a refreshed version of the 500X in the next couple of years. Related Video: Image Credit: Reuters Earnings/Financials Green Chrysler Fiat Crossover Minivan/Van chrysler pacifica fiat 500e