The electric plug-in version of Chrysler’s new and well-received Pacifica van has been delayed for a while even though hundreds of customers had already placed orders.
FCA is now announcing that they are finally starting deliveries and they offer a peace-offering to customers who have been waiting.
After talking with spokeswoman Angela Bianchi, Detroit Free Press reported:
As a “gesture of goodwill,” customers who had their order in before March 30 are being contacted to see if they would like either a Level 2 charger or a $500 Visa gift card. Bianchi said previously that some customers “have waited longer than our standard order to delivery process.”
It’s not clear why customer deliveries were delayed. Chrysler did produce 100 units for Waymo self-driving prototypes last year.
The vehicle is of interest since it’s the first PHEV minivan. Its plug-in hybrid drivetrain delivers 30 miles of all-electric range and with 84 MPGe, it’s the only game in town in term of high-efficiency minivan.
The 16 kWh battery pack is a decent step for Chrysler, which is historically not keen on EVs. Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat/Chrysler, has been clear about only developing electric vehicles for incentives, claiming that he doesn’t understand how anyone can make money selling electric cars other than to comply with government mandates. He went as far as publicly asking customers not to buy FCA’s electric vehicles.
Therefore, we will keep an eye on the availability of the Pacifica Hybrid, which could eventually be offered with an all-electric since they unveiled an all-electric concept based on the vehicle at CES earlier this year.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Comments