- Chrysler delayed its 2026 EV crossover indefinitely despite earlier electric promises.
- Stellantis may revive Chrysler using the new STLA Medium and Large platforms.
- Stellantis design boss says the automaker will “experiment” with the Chrysler brand.
Chrysler’s electric future was supposed to be just around the corner. Back in 2022, the company said it would launch its first EV in 2025 and shift to an all-electric lineup by 2028. That put it in the same boat as a long list of automakers pledging allegiance to a battery-powered future.
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However, just like many other major legacy brands, including Volvo, Cadillac, Ford, GM, VW, and Mercedes, Chrysler seems to be quietly backing away from those early promises. Why? EV sales are growing, but not nearly at the pace some executives were confidently forecasting just a few years back.
Current Lineup Is Running on Fumes
Right now, Chrysler is barely keeping the lights on with just two aging minivans, the Voyager and the Pacifica, which are, for all practical purposes, the same vehicle. The brand is in serious need of something new and relevant. That was supposed to be an electric crossover slated for 2026, but the launch has now been pushed back “until further notice.”
Stellantis knows full well that Chrysler needs some serious attention, and giving the brand a real shot at relevance may mean offering powertrains that appeal to as wide a range of buyers as possible.
Chrysler Wants to Experiment
Stellantis design chief Ralph Gilles recently spoke with Auto News about what the future holds for Chrysler, just after it celebrated its centenary on June 6. He said the conglomerate wants to “experiment” with the brand and noted that the flexible STLA Medium and STLA Large platforms are ideal for new Chrysler products.
“I think it’s time for us to pivot,” he said. “We’re going to try. We’re going to experiment with the brand. There is an unserved part of our portfolio in our showroom that our dealers have identified that we can maybe serve with Chrysler, so we’re in the process of experimenting.”
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New Platforms Could Power the Revival
“We have two brand-new platforms — STLA Medium, STLA Large — that are perfect foundations for new product, and we’re waiting for them to appear,” Gilles added. Importantly, both the STLA Medium and STLA Large platforms are designed to support ICE, hybrid, and battery-electric powertrains.
The STLA Medium platform is already being used in models like the Peugeot 3008, Citroen C5 Aircross, and the new Jeep Compass. STLA Large, meanwhile, supports both ICE and EV variants of the Jeep Wagoneer S and the new Dodge Charger.
Read: Chrysler Halts 2026 Electric Crossover “Until Further Notice”
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While we wait for Chrysler’s next generation of products to take shape, Gilles confirmed that the Pacifica minivan will get an update in 2026. The refreshed model will feature front and rear fascias inspired by the sleek Halcyon concept, giving it a much-needed design nudge as the brand repositions itself.
Needless to say, that’s not going to be enough to turn things around on its own. A facelifted minivan, no matter how slick the bumpers or grille might be, isn’t going to carry the weight of an entire brand’s comeback. Chrysler will need more than just tweaks, it needs fresh models, clearer direction, and vehicles that a lot more people genuinely want to buy.
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