Unlike many other OEMs making plug in hybrid versions of their core products, Chrysler gave the Pacifica Hybrid enough electric range to really make this a compelling electric offering. Plug in hybrids with a 10 or 15 mile electric range may improve the overall fuel consumption of the vehicle, but they do little to help the consumer really appreciate and understand how much better driving electric can be. That’s because the vehicles are in electric-only mode for such a small amount of time.
Chrysler's plug-in hybrid system - reportedly good for 80 MPGe in the city
Chrysler’s plug-in hybrid system – reportedly good for 80 MPGe in the city
When fully charged the Pacifica will default into all electric mode and will stay there unless the driver uses full throttle, at which time the gasoline engine will kick on to add power. However, it will remain in pure electric mode up to 70 miles per hour, and not use the gasoline engine until the approximately 30 miles of electric range is used, as long as the driver doesn’t call for full throttle.
