Chrysler 2011 Annual Report Download - page 64

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well-suited for electric technology. Chrysler plans to design, manufacture and sell this version of the Fiat 500 in North America.
Production is scheduled to begin in 2012.
In 2010, a 3-year demonstration project for a Ram truck plug-in hybrid was launched. This rear-wheel drive vehicle is equipped with
a lithium ion battery and has a zero−emission, pure electric operating range of 20 miles. For the demonstration project, Chrysler has
begun testing a portion of the 140 trucks it plans to run in various climates. A similar front-wheel drive vehicle demonstration project is
also being conducted using a minivan.
Finally, development of non-electrified hybrid vehicles is currently being explored. In 2010, Chrysler partnered with the EPA to develop
and study a hybrid powertrain that will operate using hydraulic power coupled with a gasoline engine. This hybrid hydraulic powertrain
study will be aimed at light-duty vehicle applications.
As for alternative fuels, in early 2013, a Jeep Grand Cherokee with diesel engine will be introduced in North America. This version of
one of the Group’s best-selling vehicles is expected to provide significantly improved fuel economy. Chrysler and Fiat are also exploring
the potential for vehicles utilizing compressed natural gas and other alternative fuel sources.
Uconnect Technology
Uconnect systems currently provide customers access to broadcast media, including satellite broadcasts, personal content and rear
seat entertainment, navigation services, traffic and travel data, and hands-free communication.
In 2011, Chrysler began installing the second generation of Uconnect radios with new touch-screen, simplified steering wheel controls
and hands-free voice commands. A third-generation, flexible Uconnect systems platform is being developed that can be personalized
to adapt to the varying degrees of skill and comfort customers have with technology. This new platform is expected to include the
option to load user-selected applications, similar to smartphones and tablets, as well as accommodating connectivity with the user’s
own smartphone. Vehicles will be connected through cellular technology, Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities to provide navigational
services, vehicle diagnostic services, emergency notification services, on-demand radio content and other services. As currently
contemplated, this new platform will provide users the option of controlling the radio with a hands-free system that recognizes natural
speech. The platform design will have the flexibility to be used across the entire vehicle range and be easily upgraded in the future as
technology continues to evolve. Production of vehicles equipped with the new Uconnect technology is expected to begin in late 2012,
including a wide range of connectivity options and intuitive and responsive user interface capabilities to enhance the driving experience
and reduce driver distraction.
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