Chrysler previews electric future with Airflow Concept

The last time Chrysler used the Airflow name was for a full-size car sold from 1934 to 1937. Despite being a commercial failure due to low sales since it was released during The Great Depression, the Airflow is still viewed by many as an important milestone for Chrysler.

Despite its age, it was actually one of the earliest vehicles to have a streamlined design thanks to aerodynamics. It also benefits from a unibody construction, an overdrive transmission, and a reserve gas tank for when you need to take the extra mile.

After 85 years of the name being dormant, Chrysler has once again revived the Airflow name, and this time, the automaker used it for an all-new electric vehicle (EV) concept.

Simply called the Airflow, it's Chrysler's vision for an electric future and is a preview for the company's first-ever EV which will be revealed in 2025.

Unlike the 1930s era Airflow, the all-new concept features a sleek and curvaceous design that appears to reflect Chrysler's new design philosophy. It gets thin LED headlights, the signature front grille complete with the Chrysler Wing emblem, and LED daytime running lights on each corner of the bumper.

Around the back, it comes with full-width LED taillights, a sporty rear bumper with an integrated diffuser, a roof-mounted spoiler for extra downforce, and a rakish tailgate. Rounding up the exterior features of the Airflow are the large 22-inch alloy wheels and two-tone exterior paint.

Since the Airflow concept has no engine up front, Chrysler was able to maximize the interior space. It gets a lounge-like cabin with a flat floor which is aimed at providing passengers a more relaxing driving experience. It also has a large panoramic sunroof which allows more light to brighten up the cabin.

The dashboard is dominated by three massive displays. The one on the driver serves as the instrument cluster, while the one on the center is the touchscreen infotainment. Lastly, the display on the passenger side serves as an extra interface for the onboard touchscreen. When not in use, the displays are hidden beneath dark panes of glass that provide a sophisticated look and feel.

To keep the rear passengers entertained, Chrysler also fit two additional monitors for infotainment purposes. Moreover, the rear passengers are treated to individual bucket seats, a center armrest with large cupholders, a central glovebox, and additional cubbyholes and storage bins underneath the center console.

Thanks to the SmartCockpit feature, both the rear screens inside the vehicle come with its own apps, features, and front-facing camera. Not only does this allow users to download and use apps, but they can also make video calls while on the go.

The driver's screen also comes with a front-facing camera for a similar purpose. While that feature might cause distracted driving, Chrysler says that the Airflow concept comes with a self-driving feature, allowing the driver to relax. Last but not least, the vehicle's software systems will benefit from over-the-air (OTA) updates in order to maximize the vehicle's life cycle.

With Chrysler planning to release its first-ever EV by 2025, the Airflow Concept gives us a better view as to what the future of the brand holds. Perhaps we might even see electric versions of the Pacifica, Grand Caravan, and even the 300 sedan.