2008 Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept
By Lorenzo Bianchi September 26, 2008
A 200 kW electric motor produced 268 hp and could take the ecoVoyager from 0 to 60 mph in under eight seconds.
Its battery covered typical daily driving of less than 40 miles, while a hydrogen fuel cell extended total range beyond 300 miles.
The four passenger cabin used a full width display, camera based mirrors, four individual seats and a retractable center console.
The 2008 Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept explored what an electric luxury car could look like before battery powered vehicles became commonplace. Revealed in Detroit on January 13, 2008, the four door, four passenger concept combined electric propulsion with a hydrogen fuel cell range extender.
Its shape was deliberately unconventional. With the propulsion hardware packaged beneath the floor, Chrysler's designers could shorten the front overhang and push the front wheels farther forward, freeing more space for passengers and cargo.
One Box Shape Hides Unusual Proportions
The ecoVoyager used a flowing one box profile designed partly around aerodynamic efficiency. Tight body overhangs kept the ends visually compact, while a dramatic boat tail treatment gave the rear a distinctive taper.
Panoramic roof glass was divided by a central spine. Chrysler carried shapes inspired by its winged badge into the window graphics, headlamps, taillamps and grille openings. The Polar Ice exterior finish highlighted elongated lower body forms that Chrysler called “light catchers.”
Access was another interesting part of the design. Both side doors could open 90 degrees, while the rear doors were hinged at the back. With no conventional center B pillar between them, the arrangement created a broad opening into the four seat cabin.
Cabin Replaces Mirrors With Cameras
Inside, the front wheel placement translated into extra room, particularly for rear passengers. Four individual contoured chairs featured exposed frames and storage drawers underneath.
The dashboard was dominated by a broad leather covered surface and a full width display positioned just below the windshield. Its outer sections displayed images from the side view cameras, while another camera provided the rear view directly ahead of the driver.
A retractable center console replaced a traditional vertical center stack. It included shortcut buttons and a mouse pad, keeping the main dashboard relatively uncluttered.
Dove Gray upholstery was paired with warm cherry wood accents. The air conditioning and windshield defroster outlets were concealed beneath perforated mesh rather than using exposed vents.
Rear passengers received a console capable of holding six 20 ounce bottles and keeping drinks hot or cold. Chrysler also incorporated its Direct Sound system, allowing individual occupants to listen to different audio without headphones.
Electric Drive Uses Hydrogen For Longer Trips
The ecoVoyager's wheels were driven by a 200 kW electric motor producing 268 hp. Chrysler claimed 0 to 60 mph in less than eight seconds.
A lithium ion battery was intended to cover a typical daily commute of less than 40 miles. For longer journeys, a compact hydrogen fuel cell operated as a range extender, taking claimed total driving range beyond 300 miles. The only stated tailpipe emission was water vapor.