Chrysler has not confirmed an electric 300, but reports suggest one is under development
Chrysler has not made an official announcement about an electric version of the 300 sedan. However, automotive journalists and industry analysts have reported that the company is exploring an electric large sedan to compete with vehicles like the Tesla Model S and BMW i7. These reports come from sources citing internal Chrysler plans and parent company Stellantis strategy documents, but remain unconfirmed by Chrysler itself.
The 300 has been Chrysler's flagship sedan since 2005, and the current generation has been in production since 2011 without a major redesign. An electric version would represent a significant shift for the brand, which has historically focused on gas-powered sedans and SUVs. Whether this vehicle actually reaches production depends on Chrysler's financial decisions, market demand, and the company's broader electrification timeline.
Key Takeaways
- Chrysler has not officially confirmed plans for an electric 300, though multiple reports suggest development is underway.
- An electric 300 would likely compete in the premium electric sedan segment against established models like the Tesla Model S and Lucid Air.
- Chrysler's parent company Stellantis has committed to electrifying its lineup, but timelines and specific models remain subject to change.
- Production timing, pricing, and final specifications remain unknown and may shift based on market conditions and company priorities.
What the rumors are based on
Reports about an electric Chrysler 300 have come primarily from automotive trade publications including Automotive News and Car and Driver, which cited unnamed sources familiar with Chrysler's product plans. In 2023 and 2024, these outlets reported that Stellantis was considering an electric large sedan under the Chrysler brand, positioned as a premium offering. The reports aligned with Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares's stated goal of electrifying the company's North American brands by the late 2020s.
Stellantis has publicly committed to launching multiple electric vehicles across its brands, including Jeep, Ram, and Dodge. Chrysler, as the company's oldest American brand, has been mentioned as a candidate for an electric sedan, though no official product roadmap has been released. The rumors gained traction partly because Chrysler's current 300 is aging and the company has not announced a successor, leaving room for speculation about an electric replacement.
How it would compete in the market
If built, an electric Chrysler 300 would enter a market segment that includes the Tesla Model S, Lucid Air, BMW i7, Mercedes-Benz EQE, and Audi e-tron GT. These vehicles typically start around $80,000 and offer ranges between 300 and 500 miles per charge. An electric 300 would need to match or exceed these specifications to be competitive, and Chrysler would likely position it as a more affordable option than some European competitors.
The original 300 appealed to buyers seeking a large, American-made sedan with distinctive styling and a lower price than European luxury brands. An electric version would need to maintain that value proposition while offering modern technology, over-the-air software updates, and charging infrastructure support. Chrysler's brand reputation and dealer network could be advantages, though the company has less experience with electric vehicles than Tesla or established luxury brands.
Stellantis's electrification plans and timing
Stellantis has stated that it will introduce multiple electric vehicles across North America through 2030, with a focus on SUVs and trucks. The company has invested heavily in battery technology and manufacturing partnerships, including joint ventures with Samsung and LG. However, Stellantis has also faced pressure to balance electrification with profitability, and has delayed or canceled some planned electric models.
The timeline for an electric 300 remains unclear. If development is underway, production could begin in the late 2020s or early 2030s, though this is speculation. Stellantis has not provided a specific launch date for any Chrysler electric sedan, and the company's priorities may shift based on market demand, battery costs, and competition. Delays or cancellations are possible if the company's financial situation changes or if demand for electric sedans proves weaker than expected.
What would change from the current 300
An electric 300 would require a completely different platform and powertrain than the current gas-powered model. The current 300 uses a rear-wheel-drive platform designed for V8 engines, which cannot be easily converted to electric. An electric version would likely use a dedicated electric vehicle platform, similar to what BMW used for the i7 or Mercedes for the EQE.
This means an electric 300 would have different interior packaging, with a flat floor and potentially more interior space than the current model. The driving experience would change significantly—electric motors deliver power when ready, so acceleration would feel different from a gas engine. Charging time, battery range, and the availability of charging stations would become central to ownership, unlike the current 300 where gas stations are ubiquitous.
Challenges Chrysler would face
Building an electric sedan is expensive, and Chrysler would need to invest billions in development, manufacturing, and battery supply. The company also faces competition from established players with more electric vehicle experience and larger customer bases. Consumer demand for electric sedans remains uncertain—many buyers are shifting toward electric SUVs and trucks, which is why most automakers are prioritizing those segments.
Chrysler's brand perception could also be a factor. The company is known for trucks and SUVs, and some buyers may not associate Chrysler with premium electric vehicles. Building brand credibility in this segment would require strong performance, reliability, and customer service. Additionally, if battery costs remain high or if charging infrastructure does not expand as expected, the business case for an expensive electric sedan could weaken.
How to stay informed about Chrysler's actual plans
Chrysler and Stellantis typically announce new vehicles at major auto shows, including the Detroit Auto Show, Los Angeles Auto Show, and New York Auto Show. Official announcements come through press releases on Stellantis's investor relations website and Chrysler's official channels. If an electric 300 is confirmed, the company will likely announce it at one of these events or through a dedicated press conference.
Automotive trade publications like Automotive News, Reuters, and Bloomberg regularly report on automaker product plans based on industry sources. These outlets often break news before official announcements, though their reports should be treated as speculation until confirmed by the company. Following Chrysler's official social media accounts and subscribing to press release notifications from Stellantis will may support you receive confirmed information directly from the source.
Frequently Asked Questions
When would an electric Chrysler 300 be released?
No release date has been announced. Reports suggest development may be underway, but production could begin in the late 2020s or early 2030s at the earliest. Timelines are subject to change based on company priorities and market conditions.
How much would an electric 300 cost?
Pricing has not been disclosed. If built, it would likely compete with other premium electric sedans, which typically start between $80,000 and $100,000. Chrysler might position it as more affordable than European competitors, but this is speculation.
Would the electric 300 replace the current gas-powered model?
That has not been confirmed. Chrysler could discontinue the current 300 and replace it entirely with an electric version, or offer both for a period of time. The company's decision would depend on market demand and its overall electrification strategy.
Has Chrysler officially confirmed the electric 300?
No. Chrysler has not made an official announcement. Reports come from unnamed sources cited by automotive journalists, which means they remain unconfirmed rumors until Chrysler makes a formal statement.
Would it be built in the United States?
Manufacturing location has not been announced. Stellantis operates plants across North America, Europe, and other regions. Where an electric 300 would be built would depend on battery supply, labor costs, and the company's manufacturing strategy.