By Jordan Porter
Toronto, Ontario – September 25, 2018 — Next year will be the last for the Chrysler model 300. In 2020, the downsized Chrysler brand will make room for a new member of the family – the sleek new Portal fully electric minivan will be available for purchase in 2020. This electric van includes an almost all glass roof, and in later models will feature a retractable steering wheel when self-driving mode is engaged.
The 2020 model will likely not have this technology available, however the Portal has no shortage of connectivity tech. Although Chrysler says it is going to share a likeness to the Pacifica architecture the Portal will feature a unique reconfigurable interior and sliding French doors throughout. The Portal is reportedly based off the popular concept which Chrysler debuted in the 2017 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
The Chrysler 300 is currently built in FCA’s Brampton, Ontario plant, however there is no word yet on where manufacturing of the Portal will take place. This begs the question of what will become of employment at the Brampton plant beyond next year. Rumours surrounding assembly space for another vehicle at the Windsor plant have surfaced as a distinct possibility, threatening the future of employment for the west end plant.