The Detroit Free Press has reported that Chrysler has created a new division called ENVI to develop vehicles that run entirely on electricity. Chrysler’s representatives stated that ENVI’s work toward advanced motor systems will take between three to five years to produce anything viable in the marketplace. Many experts see the newly created ENVI division as a response to fuel efficiency standards and grumblings by dealers about Chrysler’s sales.

Chrysler’s entrance into the hybrid vehicle market is starting with a battle against General Motors. General Motors is offering is 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid at $50,490 MSRP with a four-wheel drive available at $53,295. Chrysler is taking advantage of GM’s early entry into the green(er) vehicle market by slashing MSRP prices on the 2009 Dodge Durango and 2009 Chrysler Aspen hybrids.