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|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Model years | 1993–1995 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | FF |
| Platform | Chrysler minivans (AS) |
| Powertrain | |
| Electric motor | DC |
| Transmission | Two-speed |
| Battery | NiFe orNiCd |
| Electric range | 50–60 mi (80–97 km) |
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TheChrysler TEVan, also known as theDodge Caravan Electric orPlymouth Voyager Electric, was abattery electric vehicle produced from 1993 to 1995 byChrysler, based on the contemporary gasoline-poweredsecond generation Chrysler minivans, and sold primarily to electric utilities throughout theUnited States.
The Chrysler TEVan was developed in partnership with theElectric Power Research Institute (EPRI), a voluntary association funded byelectric utility members.[1][2] Its name was derived from the internal model code (T-0115), motive power (Electric), and body style (Van).[3] The TEVan model name was used for prototypes; Chrysler also marketed the minivans as the Dodge Caravan Electric and Plymouth Voyager Electric.[4][5] Previously, EPRI had developed the G-Van, which integrated the lead-acid battery electric powertrain from theGMC Griffon (rebadged from theBedford CF2)[6] with a standardGeneral Motors van body and chassis.[7]
Production began in late 1992.[8] Over three years, 56 were built in total[9] and most were sold at a list price ofUS$120,000 (equivalent to $261,000 in 2024) each upon their introduction. The first five were delivered to east coast utilities in April 1993; prices would be reduced to US$100,000 in March 1994. However, the cost of production was estimated at US$250,000 to US$300,000 per vehicle.[10]: 49
Half were produced usingnickel-iron battery (NiFe) chemistry and half were equipped withnickel-cadmium battery (NiCd) chemistry. The TEVan was built on the same production line as the conventional minivans atWindsor Assembly inOntario,Canada.[5] It had a top speed of 70 mph (110 km/h), seating for five adults, and a curb weight of 5,060 lb (2,295 kg). Between March 3 and March 11, 1993, a prototype TEVan completed a 2,500 mi (4,000 km) road trip fromDetroit, Michigan toLos Angeles, California in 155 hours, recharging approximately every hour.[4] The pulse charger was developed by Norvik Traction, and was powered by a diesel generator towed behind a tractor-trailer; it was able to recharge the NiCd battery pack in 30 minutes.[5]
The 180V NiCd pack consisted of 30SAFT STM5-180 6V 180Ah batteries in six removable pods under the floor of the car, delivering over 50 miles (80 km) of range. During the demonstration drive from Detroit to Los Angeles, several cells overheated and were replaced.[4]
The NiFe pack consisted of 30Eagle-Picher 6V 200Ah batteries in six pods under the floor and delivered more than 60 miles (97 km) of range. Chrysler claimed the pack had a lifetime of 100,000 mi (160,000 km).[8] A Chrysler executive testified the vehicle had 80 miles (130 km) of range on the SAE C-Cycle.[5] Data from an early prototype stated the nickel-iron battery pack weighed 2,100 lb (950 kg) and provided a range of 120 mi (190 km).[1] By 1991, the prototype battery pack weight had been reduced to 1,800 lb (820 kg).[2] Because NiFe batteries consume water and generate hydrogen gas during operation, an automated water replenishment system and a gas dispersal system were included.[11]: 81
The TEVan's on-board charger was aPFC Martin-Marietta and accepted 120 VAC@20A or 40A, 240 VAC@20A or 40A, and as high as 220 VAC@40A- three-phase inputs. Regenerative braking was possible.[1]
In 1992, Chrysler announced a partnership with Norvik Traction to develop an on-board pulse charger compatible with lead-acid, NiFe, NiCd, and NiMH battery chemistries.[12] A stationary system developed by Norvik was able to charge the NiCd battery from empty to full in 25 minutes using a 480 V supply.[13]
The prototype TEVan was fitted with a 35 hp (26 kW) DC traction motor, giving it a top speed of 65 mph (105 km/h).[1][2] The production TEVan used a 27 hp, 65 hp max (48 kW) Separately-ExcitedGE DC traction motor coupled to a two-speed FWD trans-axle that featured Hi, Lo, Reverse and Park. The owner's manual referred to it as a 'semi-automatic transmission' although it used a clutch. The motor controller was also manufactured by GE.
The production TEVan had a payload of 800 lb (360 kg) and was able to accelerate from 0–50 mph (0–80 km/h) in 31 seconds.[14]: 5
The TEVan had an 8.8 kW three-stage ceramicelectric heater. The 120A DC/DC converter provided all the 12v power, there was no auxiliary (12V) battery.Gauges included motor temperature and SOC (state of charge, akin to "Fuel Level") using the stock instruments. It was also equipped with electricair conditioning (R-134a), regenerative braking, power brakes using a Delco electric vacuum pump,power steering,AM/FM Stereo, andairbags. The original equipment tires wereLow Rolling Resistance (LRR)Goodyear P205/75R15 Momentum at 50PSI.
After thethird generation Chrysler minivans were introduced, a similar electric-powered variant named the EPIC (Electric Powered Interurban Commuter Vehicle), taking its name from the 1992Dodge EPIC concept, was launched in 1997 with advancedlead acid batteries and later in 1998 withnickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries. It was offered for lease inNew York andCalifornia in 1999.
The NiMH battery weighed 1,200 lb (540 kg) with coolant. It was equipped an AC traction motor and single speed transmissions. The reduced battery weight improved performance, giving the 1998 EPIC a maximum payload of 945 lb (429 kg) and acceleration of 0–50 mph (0–80 km/h) in 12 seconds; range improved to 80 mi (130 km).[14]
The TEVan was introduced in 1993 with 56 units sold over three years.
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