No one truly understands what Chrysler represents or what it should represent, and this has been the narrative surrounding the brand for the past ten years. However, we believe we have an idea of what it ought to be. The Pacifica stands as the sole product of the brand, and coincidentally, Stellantis is affiliated with a Chinese automaker that recently unveiled a new minivan. It’s known as the Leapmotor D99, and having reviewed its specifications and design, we find it hard to think of a valid reason for Chrysler to delay bringing this model to the U.S. (pun not intended) without delay.
Stellantis possesses a 19.99% stake in Leapmotor, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer that just marked its 10th anniversary in December. The brand commenced sales in Europe in 2024, but similar to all EV startups from China, achieving sales in the U.S. might appear to be a distant dream. Nonetheless, Leapmotor has a foothold thanks to Stellantis, and the D99—which will come in both purely electric and range-extended versions—surpasses the current offerings from Chrysler available on American roads. Its dimensions are also comparable to the Pacifica, being just about an inch longer and narrower.
While detailed specs are a bit scarce, the all-electric D99 boasts a 1,000-volt architecture (100 volts higher than the newly launched Lucid Gravity) and a 115-kWh battery developed by CATL, integrating both sodium and lithium chemistries. Leapmotor claims a range of 450 miles on the WLTP cycle, which tends to be a tad optimistic, so you might expect closer to 375 miles under EPA guidelines.
If that doesn’t suffice, you might consider the range-extending variant, which features an 800-volt charging system paired with an 80-kWh battery. Leapmotor hasn’t specified the internal combustion engine utilized in this arrangement, but it predicts drivers should be able to cover around 300 miles (once more, based on WLTP, so take it with caution) relying solely on the battery, which is relatively impressive.
The D99 is being introduced alongside the Leapmotor D19, which sports more of an SUV aesthetic and provides 536 horsepower. It has an appealing appearance, and I must admit the wheels and silver roof give it a luxurious feel akin to a Merc-Maybach. We haven’t yet seen the interior of the D99, but the D19’s cabin appears quite decent—at least from a passenger’s perspective. It would definitely benefit from not having the oversized tablet dominating the dashboard.
Returning to Chrysler, years ago, the brand hinted at a reimagined Pacifica for an electric future. Stellantis’ journeys into the EV realm in this region have evidently floundered, and with federal incentives and emissions standards being rolled back, the company has reverted heavily to installing as many Hemis as possible into vehicles capable of accommodating them. Let the Charger and Ram enjoy their V8s, I suppose, but that shouldn’t come at the cost of a variety of powertrain options. Completely abandoning EVs would be an astoundingly shortsighted choice.
The reality is, the Pacifica will inevitably have to pivot in this direction sooner or later, and Stellantis’ partner seems to possess an intriguing product at present. It is unclear whether the company is still actively pursuing that electric Pacifica hinted at in prior years. Hopefully, it hasn’t fallen into oblivion like the Ram 1500 REV—you know, the original all-electric pickup, not the vehicle once named the Ramcharger now called the REV. It’s quite confusing.
It would be prudent to establish a clear vision for the future of the Pentastar’s lone product, as currently, the Pacifica appears to lack any significant ambition. “Chrysler essentially pioneered the minivan,” our Byron Hurd remarked in his recent review of the top-tier Pinnacle model. “The Pacifica still holds the flag high, but it’s beginning to show its age.”
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**Stellantis Advances Future Electric Minivan, Currently Not Available in the U.S. Market**
Stellantis, the global automotive manufacturing company formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, is making progress in the electric vehicle (EV) domain with the creation of a new electric minivan. This groundbreaking vehicle aims to address the rising need for environmentally friendly transportation solutions, especially within the family-oriented minivan category. Nevertheless, at this time, this electric minivan is not offered in the U.S. market.
### Overview of the Electric Minivan
The forthcoming electric minivan from Stellantis is projected to merge practicality with cutting-edge technology, appealing to families and individuals in search of spacious, adaptable vehicles. The design is intended to provide a comfortable cabin with plenty of seating and cargo room, making it perfect for daily commutes, road trips, and family adventures.
### Key Features and Innovations
1. **Electric Powertrain**: The minivan will feature a fully electric powertrain, leading to decreased emissions and lower operating expenses. Stellantis is concentrating on ensuring a range suitable for families, guaranteeing that the vehicle can manage both short jaunts and extended trips without the need for frequent recharging.
2. **Advanced Technology**: The vehicle is expected to incorporate the latest in automotive innovation, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), infotainment features, and connectivity options. This will enhance the driving experience and provide convenience for passengers.
3. **Sustainability**: Stellantis places a high priority on sustainability, and this electric minivan will likely include eco-friendly materials and production methods. The company strives to minimize its carbon footprint and promote environmentally responsible procedures throughout its product range.
4. **Flexible Interior Configurations**: Anticipated to feature adaptable seating and cargo arrangements, the minivan will allow users to modify the space based on their requirements. This flexibility is a hallmark of the minivan segment and is vital for appealing to family customers.
### Market Position and Availability
Although the electric minivan is sparking enthusiasm among consumers and industry analysts, it is currently unavailable in the U.S. market. Stellantis has yet to disclose a specific launch date or pricing information for the vehicle within the United States. However, the company has reaffirmed its dedication to expanding its electric vehicle lineup, potentially including this minivan soon.
### Competitive Landscape
The electric minivan market is becoming increasingly competitive, with numerous automakers investing in electric family-oriented vehicles. Stellantis will need to set its offering apart through unique features, pricing tactics, and marketing strategies to attract consumer attention. Rivals such as Tesla, Ford, and Volkswagen are also in the process of developing electric vans and SUVs, making it essential for Stellantis to effectively position its minivan.
### Conclusion
Stellantis’s development of a future electric minivan demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive sector. Although it is currently not available in the U.S. market, the excitement surrounding this vehicle underscores the increasing demand for electric family vehicles. As Stellantis continues to advance its electric offerings, consumers can anticipate a new choice that seamlessly blends practicality, technology, and eco-friendliness in the minivan category.