Chrysler 2014 Annual Report Download - page 122

120 2014 | ANNUAL REPORT
Sustainability Disclosure
Innovative Vehicle Architectures
Solutions for an optimal balance between vehicle safety, comfort and emissions levels are focused on minimizing
vehicle weight, aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance and the energy demands of auxiliary systems.
In 2014, the Group introduced the latest architectural solutions on the new Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X. High-
Strength Steels (HSS), which represent more than 70% of the weight of the new Jeep Renegade, ensure a strong,
rigid structure. The Renegade was designed with integrated aerodynamic features to reduce drag and contribute to
improving fuel economy. These features include fully integrated, aerodynamic-tuned body and fascias; an extensive
rear spoiler; integrated underbelly pans; an integrated sill; aerodynamic spats; and a tail lamp designed to kick air off
the side of the body.
Sustainable Materials
Research and innovation for materials used in Group vehicles are concentrated in three areas:
research on new materials and structures to reduce vehicle weight (e.g., high-strength steels, new light alloys,
composite plastic materials)
analysis of biomaterials suitable for automotive applications (e.g., recycled polypropylene reinforced with natural
fibers for use in vehicle interiors, and bioplastics from renewable sources)
identification of alternative uses for materials recovered at end of vehicle life (e.g., use of scrap tires to produce
rubberized asphalt)
Promoting Eco-Sustainable Driving
Driving behavior is a significant contributing factor to the environmental impact of vehicles. Aware of the substantial
difference drivers can make, FCA has continued to invest in the eco:Drive system, which provides personalized tips to
help drivers improve their driving style and, as a consequence, reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. The
eco:Drive system is now available on nearly all Fiat and Fiat Professional models sold in Europe, Brazil, the U.S. and
Canada.
An analysis of the best drivers revealed that the system can contribute to reducing fuel consumption by as much
as 16%. By the end of 2014, eco:Drive had been used by more than 98,400 customers and contributed to annual
avoidance of more than -6,000 tons per year of CO2 emissions.
On the Fiat 500L, 500L and 500X, the latest version of this application, eco:Drive Live, allows drivers to see tips
and suggestions via the new Uconnect multimedia system. Real-time feedback on driving style enables immediate
reductions in fuel consumption and emissions.
Mobility Models
The Group’s innovation activities also focus on solutions to respond to emerging mobility needs of customers and FCA
employees.
One initiative is Enjoy, an innovative car-sharing service launched in Milan, Italy, by the energy company ENI, in
collaboration with FCA and Trenitalia. In 2014, Enjoy was extended to include Rome and Florence. Enjoy is designed
to address traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for urban residents. FCA supplies the vehicles for this
initiative, which represents the largest car-sharing fleet in Italy with more than 1,400 cars. Features of the service
include online or smartphone application sign-up and management, as well as the ability to instantly select from a
pool of available vehicles parked at locations around the city. Drivers can also leave the vehicle at any of the approved
parking facilities within the service coverage area.
Another innovative mobility program, the Fiat 500e Pass, provides alternative transportation to Fiat 500e customers
in the U.S. The program offers a flexible solution for situations when a 500e customer needs to drive beyond the
vehicle’s range or needs the carrying capability of a larger vehicle. Customers receive up to 12 days of alternate
transportation each year for the first three years after the date of purchase.