Bob Lee, head of Fiat and Chrysler global Powertrain recently stated that there are no plans to invest in electrified powertrains until consumers are willing to pay for the technology.
Chrysler and Fiat currently only offer one electrified model in the US, the California only Fiat 500e. If you’re hoping for more hybrid and electric models from Chrysler, unfortunately it won’t happen anytime soon. Bob Lee, head of Fiat and Chrysler global powertrain recently stated that there are no plans to invest in electrified powertrains until consumers are willing to pay for the technology.
Speaking at the 2013 CAR Management Briefing’s Advanced Powertrain Forum, Lee stated that Chrysler and Fiat will instead focus on expanding the number of diesel and turbocharged engines in its North American lineup. According to Lee consumers still don’t play high enough value on hybrids and electric cars to pay the added cost for the technology.
“Many customers want to reduce C02, but they aren’t willing to change their lifestyle or pay the cost — yet,” Lee said. “That might not happen for another decade.”
Chrysler is currently launching a diesel engine in the Jeep Grand Cherokee and later this year the Ram 1500 pickup and Ram ProMaster cargo will also be available with a diesel engine.
Source: Chrysler via Automotive News
