Chrysler unveils Airflow Concept, bares plan to go all-electric by 2028

CES 2022 is a hotbed for all things tech. And although the much-awaited convention was cut a day short because of the global pandemic, Chrysler took full advantage of presenting the brand’s best foot forward to such a large audience.

Giving CES 2022 attendees a glimpse of Chrysler’s leading-edge drive-system technology, fully connected customer experiences, and advanced mobility features is the Chrysler Airflow Concept.

“The Chrysler Airflow Concept represents the future direction of the Chrysler brand, providing a peek at the dynamic design, advanced technologies, and seamless connectivity that will characterize the full-electric portfolio we plan to reach by 2028. Chrysler is an iconic American automotive brand, with a heritage in creating new advanced technologies and product segments. Our brand will serve at the forefront as Stellantis transforms to deliver clean mobility and connected customer experiences,” Chrysler brand Chief Executive Officer Chris Feuell stated.

From a distance, the Chrysler Airflow Concept offers a sculptural and expressive design with a low ride height and a streamlined, two-tone roofline that not only looks good but also helps it achieve an increased range. The Chrysler Airflow Concept boasts a long wheelbase and wide track, along with large 22-inch wheels and tires.

Chrysler also says that the Airflow Concept is designed as a space to bring people together, both physically and virtually.

Some of its main features are the STLA Brain and STLA SmartCockpit. The former is the new electrical/electronic (E/E) and software architecture and is the backbone of the Airflow Concept user experience. The latter, on the other hand, delivers AI-based applications, such as navigation, voice assistance, e-commerce marketplace, and payment services, and allows seamless integration of the STLA Brain architecture into the digital lives of vehicle occupants.

In addition to offering an advanced digital experience, the Chrysler Airflow Concept is also equipped with STLA AutoDrive, which delivers Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities and will be upgradable via OTA updates.

Propulsion will come from two 150kW electric drive motors (EDMs), one in the front and one in the rear. The motors draw power from a battery that’s designed to achieve between a 350- and 400-mile range on a single charge.

The Airflow Concept marks the beginning of a new era for Chrysler as all the innovations used in the concept car will potentially make their way in future production models as Chrysler also announced its plans of going all-electric by 2028. 

The Stellantis-owned American car brand only has three vehicles listed on its US website: the Pacifica minivan and its hybrid variant as well as the Chrysler 300 sedan. 

Chrysler looks to add a new model — the first BEV in the automaker's lineup — by 2025, and hopes to make its way back in the big league by offering an all-EV roster in six years' time. 

There's no doubt Crysler will face tough competition in the EV segment with many carmakers having a good headstart in the category. Nevertheless, Chrysler remains hopeful in its journey to the electric future. 

“The Chrysler Airflow Concept represents the start of the brand’s journey toward a fully electrified future. It is the result of a thoughtful synthesis of the full arsenal of Stellantis’ connected vehicle technology — inside and out. The design features a decisively elegant aerodynamic exterior and a modern, sophisticated interior that takes the customer on a new level of digital delight,” explained Stellantis Chief Design Officer Ralph Gilles.

Photos from Chrysler

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