Tag Archives: minivans

Electric Minivans: A Definitive Guide

Summary

  • Electric minivans are aiming to interrupt the stigma surrounding minivans, with fashionable designs and high-performance options.
  • The Zeekr 009 is ready to be a strong electrical minivan, with a battery capability of 140 kilowatt-hours and a variety of 510 miles.
  • Electric minivans are providing high-tech options and opulent interiors, reworking the popularity of minivans as primary household autos.

It’s exhausting to make a minivan look — or sound — cool. The phrases “mini” and “van” put collectively conjure up pictures of stuffy household street journeys with snack wrappers lodged in between the seats or the stress-inducing expertise of the morning faculty drop-off line. Minivans, for all their dependency and spacious specialty, aren’t considered the coolest cars to drive up to a meet-up. But electrical minivan producers are aiming to alter that.

Minivans are only just gracing the electric vehicle industry, however the handful of choices spell vivid issues for his or her future by balancing being fashionable and area savvy. Here is all the pieces we all know now about the way forward for electrical minivans.

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Two editions impressed by the principle characters of the Obi-Wan Kenobi TV sequence

In order to provide the most modern and correct data doable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Volkswagen, Zeekr, and Volvo.

The Pros And Cons Of Owning An Electric Minivan

While there aren’t too many electrical minivans at the moment in the marketplace, there are a few on the horizon. Without a lot element, it is tough to decipher how electrical minivans will stack up towards SUVs, full-size vans, and the remainder of the electrical car business when the wave of EV minis hits shore. However, there are just a few sneak peeks automakers have clued prospects into.

As of 2023, few EV minivans that have been teased have actually made it to the market. Instead, full-size vans take cost as the most important large-scale electrical car out there to patrons.

EV Minivans Pack A Powerful Punch

Zeekr 

One of the numerous 100% electrical minivans anticipated to hit the market is the Zeekr 009. The car, produced by an off-shoot of Volvo, is primarily set to promote in China — the present largest sector of the electrical car market. The 009 EV has one large factor going for it: energy. The producer stated the car would be the world’s first to supply 140 kilowatt-hours of battery capability.

For context, electric vehicles have an average battery capacity of 69.5 kilowatt-hours, in accordance with EV Database, with the present highest capability sitting on the VinFast VF Extended Range’s 123 kilowatt-hours. Along with battery life, the all-electric minivan options 510 miles in vary and reaches 60 MPH in simply 4.5 seconds. If the ability and pace aren’t sufficient to clue you into simply how highly effective this car is promised to be, its 007-like identify and signature EV ultra-modern look go towards any preconceived concepts about minivans.

Similar to the Zeekr 009, the Volvo EM90 is anticipated to reach over 450 miles in range and hit a battery capability of 116 kilowatt-hours. The car is fairly fast in relation to charging, with a ten to 80 % cost in below half-hour.

Despite A Few Exceptions, Speed Remains A Downfall

While the Zeekr 009 could also be fast, different 100% electrical minivans aren’t anticipated to boast such speedy acceleration charges. Even the 009’s carefully matched cousin, the EM90, is anticipated to rise up to 60 MPH in practically double the time. The ID.Buzz hauls its weight to 60 MPH in around 10.2 seconds.

Understandably, in a family-centric car, pace would fall beneath security on the prioritization checklist. Volvo and Zeekr do go fairly the additional mile in relation to making certain security is primary by way of the protected area know-how system and superior driver help methods.

Related

Zeekr 009 Cures The Minivan Blues With Over 500 Horsepower And Wild Styling

Is this Chinese luxurious EV van the primary cool minivan in many years?

These Future Models Are Shaking Up Everything From Interior Tech To Towing Capacity

Volvo 

While customary minivans aren’t precisely identified for being essentially the most flashy, nor providing the utmost luxurious experiences, all-electric minivans appear to be altering the expectations across the car’s popularity. From fold-out tray tables to seats impressed by a first-class flight, these new electrical minivans aren’t pulling any punches in relation to decking out the car in all the pieces that makes the experience smoother.

Artificial Intelligence On The Road

Electric autos usually tackle a futuristic really feel and upcoming EV minivans are not any exception. The Zeekr 009 is provided with a 15.6-inch central drop down display screen for passengers to look at motion pictures and hearken to music. Alongside the mega display screen is the automobile’s central mind known as the “8155 intelligent cockpit” with a computing system and EVA, the car’s voice-activated A.I. management system.

In the same vein to the 009’s luxe and full of life inside expertise, Volvo’s CEO expressed that the most important intention for the model’s electrical minivans is to encourage consolation for the entire household.

“It’s an age-old cliché, but there really is no place like home,” Volvo Cars CEO Jim Rowan stated. “A place to connect with your loved ones, to truly be yourself. It’s this feeling of home that inspired our new EM90, a car with room for life.”

Zeekr 009
Zeekr/Geely

Along with high-tech options, each the EM90 and Zeekr 009 provide a sequence of particular options. The EM90 contains street noise cancelation and a silent tires characteristic. Similar to the 009, the EM90 additionally features a 15.4-inch infotainment display screen and a 15.6-inch roof-mounted display screen for passenger leisure.

As Volvo stated, “you can easily turn the interior of the EM90 into a theater, a meeting room, or a bedroom for the rear seats.” The 009 includes smart-tech technicolor lighting with noise cancelation and 24 square feet of space. Both fashions go towards the grain of typical minivans in look, but in addition in efficiency.

Zeekr 009

Volvo EM90

Height

73 inches

73 inches

Width

80 inches

80 inches

Length

205 inches

205 inches

Wheelbase

126 inches

126 inches

(Data sourced from Zeekr and Volvo)

Although giant, the Zeekr 009 is sort of low drag, with a 0.27 “ultra-low” drag coefficient, in accordance with the brand. With Volvo performing because the mum or dad firm of Zeekr, its no shock that the 2 all-electric minivans are practically an identical in options. However, it’s stunning simply how related the EVs appear to be. For instance, apart from the tech and particular options showing to be of comparable design and scale, the automobiles have an identical dimensions.

Made For Road-tripping

The ranges confirmed for the likes of the Zeekr 009 and EM90 are spectacular, however different fashions are significantly well-suited for street tripping. The ID.Buzz is Volkswagen’s homage to the famed Type 2 Microbus, however this time with an all-electric powertrain. While the ID.Buzz has much less of a variety — round 260 miles — it does have fast charging occasions, recharging from five to 80 percent in 30 minutes. The Volkswagen microbus shines, nonetheless, in its classic fashion and seashore street journey vibes, together with its capacity to hold something you want (as much as round 2,300 kilos). Oddly, regardless of the microbus’ sluggish acceleration time, it did compete within the Monte Carlo electrical rally in October and made it by way of the winding mountain roads of Monaco, France, and Italy.

Volkswagen ID.Buzz Specifications

Battery Capacity

86 kWh

Horsepower

282 – 330 horsepower

Torque

230 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

10.2 seconds

Range

258 miles

Towing Capacity

2,204 kilos

Data sourced from Volkswagen

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What EV Minivan Tax Credits To Look For

Rear three-quarter view of the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz LWB
Volkswagen

The United States electrical car market is at the moment within the midst of a shake-up. Previously, EV homeowners may obtain a $7,500 tax credit score. The laws and incentives tried to spice up electrical car gross sales and decrease the up-front value of shopping for an electrical car.

However, the Biden administration lately handed new laws that will disqualify electrical autos that comprise exported components from any “foreign entit[ies] of concern.” The lower to tax credit score qualifiers is partially a solution to reduce China’s exportation of electrical autos to the states. According to the Wall Street Journal, till automakers discover a answer to supply China’s graphite, it could be difficult to reap the benefits of any electric vehicle tax breaks.

Where Tax Credits Leave Upcoming Minivans

Even earlier than the most recent laws handed, just one electrified minivan was eligible for the full $7,500 tax incentive, reported Bloomberg. The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid was the only minivan to qualify for the rebate. While the checklist of eligible autos has but to be revealed, if the electrical minivans coming to market meet the worth cap and home components {qualifications}, they may make the checklist.

Models Coming To The EV Market

As a fleet of recent electrical autos graces the market, listed below are just a few fashions to regulate.

  • Volkswagen ID.Buzz
  • Citroen e-HouseTourer
  • Volvo EM90
  • Zeekr 009
  • SAIC Maxus MIFA 9

Campervan Conversions: Affordable Options for Travelers

If you’re looking for an affordable campervan conversion, Oasis Campervans in Colorado has got you covered. They specialize in converting various types of minivans into comfortable living and sleeping spaces that you can bring on your road trips.

Their “Classic Conversion” option offers a cozy living area in the cabin, a kitchen accessible from the back of the van, and convenient stacked cushions that easily transform into a full-length bed for two. To maximize storage space, they also provide mounted cabinetry. Additionally, vinyl flooring and canvas curtains are included to ensure privacy during your travels.

While the base package offers these essential features, Oasis Campervans also offers a range of additional options. These include a power station, a cooler/freezer, solar panels, and more. However, keep in mind that these extra amenities require an additional cost. You have the flexibility to customize your campervan by adding these features individually, or you can opt for the “Classic Deluxe” package, which includes all the amenities in one bundle.

This campervan conversion is particularly suitable for those on a budget. You have the freedom to choose and pay only for the appliances and features you truly desire, rather than investing in everything upfront. The Classic Conversion starts at $11,290, but if you’re planning longer trips, you might want to consider adding the power station and cooler, which could increase the cost by a couple of thousand dollars.

10 Things The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Does Better Than An SUV

Hybrid minivans have significantly transformed the landscape of family transportation in the United States. These vehicles seamlessly merge the inherent spaciousness and practicality of traditional minivans with the fuel efficiency and environmentally conscious features of hybrid technology. Among the notable contenders in this category stands the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan, a vehicle characterized by its sleek esthetics, accommodating seating capacity for up to seven occupants, and impressive travel range.

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has garnered widespread acclaim and interest from families nationwide. Whether embarking on extensive road trips or conducting daily errands within city limits, this vehicle consistently delivers a seamless, efficient, and gratifying driving experience. In doing so, it caters to the evolving expectations and preferences of modern families, setting the standard for the future of family transportation. Here’s how the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid could be even better than an SUV.

Note: Specifications, data, and information related to the cars on the list have been sourced from the Chrysler, NHTSA, IIHS, fueleconomy.gov, and Car and Driver.

Related: 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Everything We Know

1 More Bang For Your Buck

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan infotainment system
Chrysler

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers more value for your money compared to typical American SUVs in its price range. Starting at $51,095 for the Touring L base model, it provides superior performance, efficiency, spaciousness, and advanced technology. Upgrading to the Limited trim at $55,840 and the top-tier Pinnacle trim at $60,990 further solidifies its position as a superior choice.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Trim Pricing

Model

Price

Chrysler Pacifica Touring L

$51,095

Chrysler Pacifica Limited

$55,840

Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle

$60,990

(Figures sourced from Chrysler)

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers a top-performing hybrid powertrain, a range of 520 miles, top Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features, a 10.1-inch infotainment system, and more, all at a comparable or lower cost than luxury hybrid SUVs offered by other manufacturers. Luxury hybrid SUVs, such as the Lexus NX 450h+ with a range of 550 miles, have a minimum starting price of $62,765. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan represents excellent value for its cost and provides a compelling alternative to SUVs in the same price range.

2 Twice The Cargo Capacity

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan interior space
Chrysler

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid can accommodate up to seven passengers in its three rows of seats. The second row has two captain’s chairs that can be removed to create more space, and the third row has a 60/40 split-folding bench seat that can be folded into the floor. The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica hybrid minivan comes with all the amenities of a luxury SUV but with more space.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Interior Dimension Comparison

Model

Seating Capacity

Cargo Capacity (with all seats in place)

Front Leg Room

Front Hip Room

Rear Leg Room

Rear Hip Room

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan

7 Passengers

32.3 cubic-feet

41.1 inches

59.0 inches

39.0 inches

64.8 inches

Acura MDX Hybrid

6 passengers

15 cubic-feet

41.4 inches

57.5 inches

35.6 inches

57.8 inches

Volvo XC90 Recharge

7 passengers

15.8 cubic-feet

40.9 inches

56.0 inches

37.0 inches

56.5 inches

(Specs sourced from Chrysler)

The Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers more cargo capacity compared to hybrid SUVs like the Acura MDX Hybrid and Volvo XC90 Recharge. With 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 140.5 cubic feet behind the first row, the Pacifica Hybrid provides twice the cargo capacity of many hybrid SUVs. This makes it a more practical choice for families who need to carry large amounts of cargo.

Related: Why You Should Pick The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Over Any SUV

3 An All-Electric Range As Extensive As Top Hybrid SUVs

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan front
Chrysler

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan achieves an impressive all-electric range of 32 miles, thanks to its 16 kWh 360 Volt lithium-ion battery pack. This extensive electric range allows for shorter trips to be completed solely on electricity, reducing the need for gasoline consumption. When the battery charge diminishes, the vehicle seamlessly transitions to its gasoline engine, resulting in a total driving range of up to 520 miles. This places the Pacifica Hybrid minivan alongside hybrid SUVs with the longest electric ranges. It is a remarkable feat for a vehicle as long, spacious, and heavy as the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica minivan.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan All-Electric Range Comparison With Longest Range Hybrid SUVs

Model

All-Electric Range

Battery

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan

32 Miles

16 kWh

Dodge Hornet R/T

30 Miles

15.5 kWh

Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid

31 Miles

13.8 kWh

Kia Sorento PHEV

32 Miles

14 kWh

(Specs sourced from respective automakers)

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan’s all-electric range competes with some of the longest range hybrid SUVs available, such as the Dodge Hornet R/T, Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid, and Kia Sorento PHEV. This impressive electric range allows for eco-friendly driving and reduces the overall environmental impact of the vehicle.

4 Most Awarded Minivan Six Years In A Row

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan parked infront of a cabin
Chrysler

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan has been recognized and awarded by industry experts for its outstanding features and performance. It has been named the most awarded minivan for six consecutive years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the Pacifica Hybrid minivan an overall safety rating of 5 stars, further highlighting its commitment to safety. This vehicle is highly regarded in the industry and has received over 170 accolades, making it one of the most decorated hybrid minivans in the U.S.

Related: 15 Reasons Why The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Is Criminally Underrated

5 Much More Efficient Than Most Hybrid SUVs

A pair of parked 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Chrysler

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan achieves an impressive fuel economy, with a combined efficiency of 30 mpg. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Pacifica Hybrid offers an electric range of up to 32 miles and boasts an 82 MPGe combined rating. Compared to other hybrid SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid performs exceptionally well. For instance, the 2023 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge has a combined MPGe of 63 and a combined MPG of 28, while the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a combined MPGe of 74 and a combined MPG of 26. The Pacifica Hybrid’s advanced hybrid powertrain reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making it a more efficient choice for eco-conscious families.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Efficiency Figures vs. SUVs

Model

Combined MPGe

Combined MPG

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

82 MPGe

30 MPG

2023 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge

63 MPGe

28 MPG

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

74 MPGe

26 MPG

2022 Audi Q5 TFSI E Quattro

61 MPGe

26 MPG

(Specs sourced from EPA)

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan outperforms many hybrid SUVs in terms of fuel efficiency. Its advanced hybrid powertrain, electric range, and efficient design contribute to its impressive efficiency ratings.

6 A Smooth And Responsive Drive

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan parked sideshot
Chrysler

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers a smooth and responsive driving experience that distinguishes it from SUVs. Thanks to its electric drive, it provides quick throttle response and smooth and powerful acceleration, comparable to that of top-ranked hybrid SUVs. Additionally, its smooth suspension and weighted steering system enable easy maneuverability and comfortable driving. The Pacifica Hybrid’s larger weight also allows it to tow up to 3,600 pounds, providing additional versatility for families.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Exterior Dimensions

Gross Vehicle Weight

6,300 pounds

Curb Weight

5,010 pounds

Length

204.3 inches

Width

79.6 inches

Height

69.9 inches

Wheelbase

121.6 inches

(Specs sourced from Chrysler)

The Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers a smooth and responsive drive, thanks to its quick steering response and smooth suspension. Despite its larger size and weight compared to SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid is easy to maneuver and provides a comfortable driving experience for families.

Related: Top Three-Row Hybrid SUVs

7 Better Equipped With Technology To Keep Your Family Safe

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan FamCam
Chrysler

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan is equipped with advanced technology to enhance safety and convenience for families. It seamlessly integrates with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto, allowing easy control of your smartphone through the Uconnect touchscreen or voice commands with Siri. The minivan is also equipped with a FamCAM that allows you to monitor your children with automatic day and night modes and a split-view screen, even when they are seated in rear-facing child seats. Additionally, the rear dual-screen entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV built-in ensures that your family remains entertained throughout the journey. These advanced technologies make the Pacifica Hybrid minivan an exceptional choice for families and elevate its safety features beyond those found in most SUVs.

8 A Design Remarkable Enough To Compete With The Muscular Silhouette Of An SUV

Toyota Introduces Custom Minivans: Toyota X-Van Gear and Vellfire Spacious Lounge

Toyota Auto Body, a subsidiary of Toyota, has built two impressive minivans that will be showcased at the upcoming 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, now known as the Japan Mobility Show. These minivans, known as the Toyota X-Van Gear Concept and Vellfire Spacious Lounge Concept, offer unique designs and serve different purposes.

The X-Van Gear Concept stands out as it combines off-road characteristics with a spacious interior. While there are other minivans targeting those who enjoy the outdoors, this one has its own advantages. One notable feature is the absence of B-pillars, which allows for easier access and maneuverability.

Toyota Sienna Upgraded with 60-Speaker System to Transform into a Unique Mobile DJ Booth

Although minivans may not be as popular as crossovers and SUVs, they are undeniably practical. Toyota took full advantage of their functionality by transforming a minivan into a fully-equipped mobile DJ booth.

This extraordinary minivan features a 60-speaker sound system, including four powerful 12-inch subwoofers, 36 midrange speakers, 14 tweeters, and six percussion horns. With 16 amplifiers delivering a total of 25,000 watts of power, the audio experience is nothing short of exceptional. The van is equipped with a professional-grade 12-channel Digital Sound Processor, as well as an eight-channel mixer that enables multiple connections.

Toyota FJ Cruiser Revival Teased During 2024 Land Cruiser Debut

During the debut event for the Land Cruiser 250, Toyota briefly showcased the silhouette of what appears to be a Century SUV. Additionally, two unknown SUVs were previewed at the end of the event. While details about these vehicles were not provided, Toyota’s Chief Branding Officer hinted at new and exciting paths for the future of cars. The automaker aims to keep the Land Cruiser nameplate relevant by implementing “carbon neutral approaches” and making the vehicle more affordable and accessible worldwide.

Toyota SUVs teaser (modified)

Considering the familiar boxy shape of the left SUV silhouette, it is possible that Toyota is teasing the revival of the FJ Cruiser, this time in an electric form. Toyota had previously hinted at the return of the FJ Cruiser in late 2021 with the Compact Cruiser concept. However, it is essential to note that this potential resurrection contradicts a prior report claiming that Toyota had halted the development of an electric second-generation FJ Cruiser model. It is possible that plans have changed since then.

The FJ Cruiser was discontinued in the United States after the 2014 model year, but production continued until December 2022. Toyota manufactured the model for nearly 17 years before ending production with a Final Edition limited to 1,000 units for the Middle East.