If the Chrysler 200C EV really is an indication of the maker's forthcoming design language, as it claims, then it's about to go from retro Americana to modern day Vauxhall. Squint your eyes and the 200C could be an
Insignia.
Ho hum, the 200C EV concept is still rather fascinating. For a start it previews how the next Chrysler Sebring will look, but more importantly, it has a hybrid electric powertrain with a 400-mile total range and a 40-mile electric-only one. It has a 268bhp power rating and will hit 60mph in around seven seconds.
The car on display is rear-wheel drive, though Chrysler says it can be modified for front-wheel drive for production, which is likely. What probably won't make production any time soon, but is interesting nonetheless, is the 200C EV's in-car connectivity witchcraft.
There's a 'passenger tablet' that allows occupants to surf the net, and the car can also be linked to a mobile phone so that it can be heated, cooled or started remotely. Paranoid parents can also use the system to monitor the car's cabin from afar.
Mark Nichol - 11 Jan 2009