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Chrysler Eyes Electric Rollout in 2010

Automaker will highlight 4 concepts at the Detroit auto show

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 11, 2009 9:10 AM CST

(Newser) – Struggling Chrysler is underscoring its green-friendly efforts just ahead of the Detroit auto show, reports the Detroit News, promising to have an electric car in production by 2010. Though a rep said he was “not allowed to” reveal any information about the model, the automaker will reveal a battery-powered version of the Jeep Patriot and show three previously displayed concepts—including a minivan and a sports car.

Though the company was short on specifics, one industry analyst says Chrysler's plans are as solid as any because all automakers are pursuing the same battery technology and suppliers—the key will be developing partnerships. Chrysler hopes to have four electric models for sale by 2013, reports the Wall Street Journal, at which point it aims to have sold 500,000 electric vehicles.

[Images (4)]

[Quotes (1)]

Chrysler LLC Chairman and CEO Bob Nardelli introduces four electric prototypes: from left, a Chrysler minivan, a Jeep, an Dodge sports car, and the GEM Peapod in Auburn Hills, Mich., Sept. 23, 2008. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

The engine compartment of a prototype Chrysler electric minivan is shown in Auburn Hills, Mich., Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Chrysler Chief Executive Officer Bob Nardelli steps out of his electric vehicle on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 4, 2008, prior to testifying before the Senate Banking Committee. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf)

An electric Jeep Wrangler prototype is shown in Auburn Hills, Mich., Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

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Chrysler has great plans and ideas, but the partnerships that have to be in place to make this happen put a lot of risk for full development. - Stephanie Brinley, product analyst with AutoPacific

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Chrysler Eyes Electric Rollout in 2010