If there’s one category desperately lacking electric models, it’s minivans.
When you think about it, this is the perfect segment for a fully electric vehicle. Electric drivetrains are particularly efficient in city driving with frequent stops and starts. Moreover, typical minivan buyers are families, meaning grocery runs, daycare pickups, school commutes, and extracurricular activities often involve numerous short trips.
It’s About Time
Chrysler scored big with the Pacifica by introducing all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It didn’t take long for competitors to follow suit. Fortunately, Stellantis has more tricks up its sleeve. According to Green Car media, Chrysler is reportedly preparing to launch a fully electric version of the popular Pacifica.
However, patience will be required, as the electric Pacifica will arrive only after the regular model undergoes a redesign, expected sometime in 2026. This means the electric Pacifica likely won’t join Chrysler’s lineup until late 2026 or 2027 at the earliest.
Even so, the news is exciting, as the Pacifica would be the first fully electric minivan on the market.
A Versatile Minivan
To be honest, I didn’t expect the Pacifica to be as popular as it is today, especially after the Dodge Grand Caravan was retired. Nevertheless, the Pacifica has sparked a true revolution, ensuring the minivan segment didn’t vanish entirely.
Currently, Chrysler’s minivan offers two powertrain options. In its standard version, the Pacifica is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine has been around for nearly 20 years and is credited with practically saving the Chrysler brand. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and can be combined with all-wheel drive.
The Chrysler Pacifica is also available as a plug-in hybrid. This version combines the V6 engine with two electric motors for a total output of 260 horsepower. It can travel up to 51 kilometers (32 miles) on electric power alone, thanks to its 16.0 kWh battery pack.
Personally, I’m eager to see what Chrysler can achieve with a fully electric Pacifica.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
