Stellantis Shifts Focus from Electric SUV to Other Models for Chrysler Brand
Stellantis has made a strategic decision to halt the development of the first electric vehicle planned for the Chrysler brand. The Chrysler Airflow concept, which was unveiled in 2022 and intended to be the basis for a production electric SUV, has had its development work suspended. According to Mopar Insiders, an email to suppliers stated that the program is currently “on hold until further notice” and all associated spending should be stopped immediately.
Chrysler Airflow concept
A spokesperson from Stellantis confirmed that the electric SUV project is currently paused as they assess market demands and customer preferences. This decision means that Chrysler will focus on its existing single minivan lineup, including the Voyager and Pacifica models, with the latter offering a plug-in hybrid powertrain option.
The spokesperson also revealed that a refreshed Pacifica is set to launch in 2026, followed by a new crossover SUV and a third model based on the Halcyon concept. Chrysler CEO Christine Feuell mentioned in a recent interview that the Halcyon, an electric four-door coupe unveiled in 2024, will cater to a niche market compared to an SUV.
Chrysler Airflow concept
Although Chrysler initially announced plans for an electric SUV based on the Airflow concept to launch in 2025, the project’s momentum diminished soon after. In 2023, Feuell reportedly called for a redesign that would eliminate the concept’s styling and the Airflow name, paying homage to a historic Chrysler model line from the 1930s known for introducing aerodynamic design in the automotive industry.
Feuell previously mentioned Chrysler’s development of an electric minivan, which was later confirmed to be named the Pacifica in a 2024 interview at the LA Auto Show. The new model is scheduled to debut after the refreshed version of the current Pacifica arrives in 2026.