Chrysler Making First Moves Towards Electric Cars

ChryslerChryslerUnited States of America, 1925 > present70 models
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has bucked the general world trend to move towards hybrids, diesels and electric cars. Granted, a few RamRam TrucksUnited States of America, 2008 > present4 models
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trucks are offered with Cummins diesel engines, but the use of those is very different from small diesels found in VolkswagensVolkswagenGermany, 1938 > present98 models
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. However, it is finally dipping its toe in the water of greener cars. It will have the first electric versions of its cars available to consumer later this year. 

"We do believe in electrification, sparingly and for the right kinds of targeted applications. We're developing technology for commercialization, preparing for the shift when consumers start pulling them into the marketplace," said Bob Lee, head of engine engineering at Chrysler.

Chrysler's first electric model in the US will be an electric Fiat 500Fiat 500 (modern)Italy, 2007 > present240 versions
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. Production starts later this year and sales will begin in 2013. 

Chrsyler also offers a plug-in hybrid version of the Voyager minivan to governments in California, Arizona, North Carolina and Michigan. It is also testing a similar, electrified version of the Ram pickup. 

Source: Automotive News