Chrysler to develop new Fiat 500EV vehicle for the U.S.

Chrysler alliance with Fiat presents many new opportunities for both companies. Earlier this year Chrysler showed a pure electric vehicle using the Fiat 500 platform at the 2010 North American International Auto Show. Now Chrysler has confirmed that beginning in 2012, they will manufacture the Fiat 500EV for the U.S. market. Regular Fiat 500 produced by Chrysler will go on sale in the States end of 2010.

“The alliance with Fiat presented new opportunities to merge Chrysler Group engineering knowledge with new platforms and the Fiat 500EV is an outstanding example of our efforts,” said Scott Kunselman, Senior Vice President Engineering-Chrysler Group LLC. “The Fiat 500 is a small, lightweight platform perfect for integrating electric-vehicle technology.”

According to Chrysler, the Fiat 500EV powertrain is comprised of three main systems; high power electric powertrain module, advance lithium ion battery, and an EV control unit to manage power flows.

All powertrain engineering and vehicle development will take place at Chrysler Group headquarters in Auburn Hills, Mich. Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but will be competitive with similar electric vehicles in the market.