High Powered eBike Camping: 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid with 1500 Watt Inverter and 120V Outlets

[BikeMike]

The goal is to charge an eBike inside a hybrid van in cold regions, like Colorado. Heating the van with a permanently installed electric heater from the traction battery is also important. The solution involves identifying the electrical parts for a dealer to install.

Comparing Ford's gas-engine-as-generator EV philosophy with Chrysler's electric-motor-as-generator approach is interesting. Two different approaches to EV range. Both Chrysler and Ford license the same variable electronic transmission technology.

Whether a PHEV or HEV can be used for cold weather recreational camping purposes centers on the electric motor/generator design and implementation. Some basic questions are:

1. Is battery power available when ignition in off position?
2. Is the inverter connected to high voltage (HV) battery or low volltage (12V) lead acid battery?
3. Will the HV battery recharge the LV battery when ignition in off position, without gas engine power?
4. Is the HV battery power dependent upon gas engine when ignition in off position?

A second 1500 Watt inverter that doubles the inverter power included in the Pinnacle package is needed. The marketing literature does not indicate how many watts the inverter is. I assume a 1500W inverter, because the standard 400W outlet is unremarkable. The 2021 Pinnacle features a refrigerator, so a 1500W inverter is a reasonable assumption. At the very least, disconnect the refrigerator to connect other electrical devices.

In any event, the dealer must install one or more inverters to be powered by the traction battery. A 5,000W inverter would be very nice. The following diagram illustrates an easy connection point towards the rear of the van, between the high and low voltage batteries.

The diagram omits the 110ACV connection. The connection might come from the Power Inverter Module (PIM).

The Pacifica traction battery is 16kWh that can be charged in two hours (i.e., not fast charging). The battery can also be charged by one of electric motors while the gas engine is runnng. Many details about the structure and functioning of the electrical system must be researched. For example, can the inverter draw power without automatically turning on the engine? Heating a van from a gas engine while sleeping can be fatal.

The traction battery needs to be warmed by the gas engine when outside temperatures fall below 32F. What temperature does the traction battery need to be raised to in order to charge an eBike for 3.5 hours or power an electrical heater overnight? These questions, as well as new issues will be explored in this thread.

Deep inside the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid system

www.allpar.com

​

Motor 2 is used as a generator for recharging the battery pack during Hybrid operation; much of the current generated by Motor 2 is used to power Motor 1. Motor 2 controls the sun gear in the planetary gear set, allowing it control gasoline engine speed and torque being transferred to the wheels with optimum efficiency.

electronic components, but we believe some of the Motor 1 internal components are supplied by a Chinese vendor. The high voltage battery, which is liquid cooled and weighs 368 pounds, is supplied by the South Korean company LG Chem. The battery has an On-Board Charging Module (OBCM) and the (yes, really) Electric Coolant Heater (ECH).

https://www.kbb.com/reviews/2021-chrysler-pacifica/

115-volt outlet — can be ordered as options in the lower trims.

Can the Chrysler Pacifica come with all-wheel drive?
If we were still in 2019, the answer would have been no. The only all-wheel-drive minivan available then was the Toyota Sienna. The Pacifica started offering that option during the 2020 model year, and this 2021 version continues to do so.

However, it’s not possible to have all-wheel drive with the plug-in hybrid powertrain. (Not entirely sure about this statement)

https://msmownerassets.z13.web.core.windows.net/assets/publications/en-us/Chrysler/2020/Pacifica_Hybrid/P117192_20_RU_OM_EN_US_DIGITAL_E3_v1.pdf

2020 inverter is a disappointment page 118







There is a 115 Volt, 150 Watt Power Inverter outlet located on the right side of the vehicle, before the third row of seats to convert DC current to AC current. The Power Inverter can power cellular phones, electronics and other low power devices requiring up to 150 Watts.





Certain high-end video game consoles will exceed this power limit, as will most power tools.

Power Inverter

The Power Inverter turns on when the device is plugged in, and the ignition is in ON/RUN position. It turns off when the device is unplugged or the ignition is no longer in ON/ RUN position.

The Power Inverter is designed with built-in overload protection. If the power rating of
150 Watts is exceeded, the Power Inverter shuts down. Once the electrical device has been removed from the Power Inverter, it resets. To avoid overloading the circuit, check the power ratings on electrical devices prior to using the Power Inverter.

 

[Dionigi]

The goal is to charge an eBike inside a hybrid van in cold regions, like Colorado. Heating the van with a permanently installed electric heater from the traction battery is also important. The solution involves identifying the electrical parts for a dealer to install.

A second 1500 Watt inverter that doubles the inverter power included in the Pinnacle package is needed. The marketing literature does not indicate how many watts the inverter is. I assume a 1500W inverter, because the standard 400W outlet is unremarkable. The 2021 Pinnacle features a refrigerator, so a 1500W inverter is a reasonable assumption.

In any event, the dealer must install one or more inverters to be powered by the traction battery. A 5,000W inverter would be very nice.

The Pacifica traction battery is 16kWh that can be fast charged. The battery can also be charged by one of electric motors while the gas engine is runnng. Many details about the structure and functioning of the electrical system must be researched. For example, can the inverter draw power without automatically turning on the engine? Heating a van from a gas engine while sleeping can be fatal.

The traction battery needs to be warmed by the gas engine when outside temperatures fall below 32F. What temperature does the traction battery need to be raised to in order to charge an eBike for 3.5 hours or power an electrical heater overnight? These questions, as well as new issues will be explored in this thread.

Deep inside the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid system

www.allpar.com

View attachment 60474​

https://www.kbb.com/reviews/2021-chrysler-pacifica/

The 2021 Toyota Sienna and Venza have 1500 watt inverters. But maybe a 1000 w Jackery or a 2400 watt Bluettti along with either a rooftop solar panel or a packable panel. For heat maybe a diesel heater.

 

[BikeMike]

My guess is the PIM might provide a way to connect an inverter?

Deep inside the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid system

www.allpar.com

Brains of the system
An integrated Power Inverter Module (PIM) mounted to the transmission case converts energy from the high voltage DC battery to AC to drive the electric motors, and also converts the AC power back to DC to charge the battery, when the motors are used as generators (“regenerative braking,” though the motors also generate some electricity while coasting). The PIM can be serviced separately if needed.

The PIM is the brain of the entire system; it controls all electrified powertrain components, connects to both the high and low voltage wiring systems, and communicates directly with all of the primary vehicle controllers. The PIM itself has two major computer processors, the Auxiliary Hybrid Control Processor (AHCP) and the Hybrid Control Processor (HCP). The HCP controls and monitors Motor 1 (102 kW, mechanically connected to the output); the AHCP controls and monitors Motor 2 (65 kW, mechanically connected to the input). To simplify, Motor 1 is the main drive motor and Motor 2 handles auxiliary functions.

The electric motors are both inside the transmission, connected to the PIM with shielded wire. Motor direction and rpm signals are transmitted to the AHCP from Resolver A and the HCP from Resolver B. If either resolver signals are lost, the vehicle will not be allowed to operate.

The SI-EVT transmission is filled with transmission fluid for life, and has no fill tube or fluid level indicator — like many recent automatics.

https://www.chrysler.com/universal/webselfservice/pdf/T34.pdf

Failed Power Inverter Module

www.pacificaforums.com

 

[BikeMike]

The 2021 Toyota Sienna and Venza have 1500 watt inverters. But maybe a 1000 w Jackery or a 2400 watt Bluettti along with either a rooftop solar panel or a packable panel. For heat maybe a diesel heater.

Can the motor be stopped from turning on when the 1kWh battery depletes? The owners manual informs that you should not sleep with an electric heater powered by the inverter.

High Powered eBike Camping: 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid with 1500 Watt Inverter and 110V Outlets

The purpose of the 2021 Toyota Sienna electrical system is to improve energy efficiency. How much benefit does the electrical system provide for recreational purposes? Some clarifications are needed to answer the following questions. Note: Engine refers to gas-engine. Motor refers to electric...

electricbikereview.com

 

[BikeMike]

The Accessory Connection Module might be another possible place to connect an inverter.

More info on Hybrid Recall due 12v battery fires

www.pacificaforums.com

 

[BikeMike]

https://www.kbb.com/reviews/2021-chrysler-pacifica/

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Standard Features

As mentioned, Touring is the entry-level trim. But it still comes with a generous amount of standard equipment. As well as an array of advanced safety features, it includes a powered tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, power-sliding side doors, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, tri-zone automatic climate control and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration.

The hybrid version of Touring trim adds the second-row captain’s chairs and acoustic glass for the first seating row, plus a digital instrument cluster.

A more fuel-efficient choice would be the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, at present, the only plug-in hybrid minivan on sale. This drivetrain is available in every 2021 Pacifica trim, but only with front-wheel drive. It also has a V6 engine, connected here to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with extra muscle coming from two electric motors powered by a lithium-ion battery

It can travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, while the gasoline engine enables a total range of 520 miles. Battery recharging takes a few hours with a 240-volt charger or the included 120-volt charging cable.
3.6-liter V6/dual electric motors, 16 kWh battery
260 total system horsepower
EPA city/highway combined fuel economy (estimated): 30 mpg/82 MPGe
Battery-only range on a full charge: 32 miles

How Much Does the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Cost?
Pricing for the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica will arrive closer to the minivan’s launch later in 2020. For initial reference, however, the 2020 Pacifica started close to $35,000 and could reach near $50,000.

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring
Powered tailgate/sliding side doors
10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration
Tri-zone climate control
Blind-spot monitoring w/rear cross-traffic alert
Digital instrument cluster
Second-row captain’s chairs ? Ottoman ?
First-row acoustic glass

Features can be ordered as options in the lower trims.

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring L
Perforated leather upholstery
Heated front seats/steering wheel
Chrome roof rack
Driver’ s-side seat memory
Grocery bag hooks

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited
Hands-free sliding doors/tailgate operation
Nappa leather upholstery
Ventilated front seats
Heated second-row seats ? Do they remain heated when engine turned off?
Tri-pane panoramic sunroof ? Can it be ventilated with a fan?

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Pinnacle
20-inch alloy wheels
115-volt outlet ? How many watts?
Self-parking/360-degree camera system
Harman Kardon audio system upgrade
Rear-seat entertainment system
.

1. Sleep
2. Ventilation
   1. heated and/or ventilated seats that accommodate sleeping with a reclining feature
   2. diesel or electric air heater connected to car ventilation ducts
   3. Connect new fan(s) to existing car ducts for fresh air
   4. driven by hybrid battery
3. Insulate
   1. windows
   2. partition between cargo and cabin areas
   3. ceiling
   4. floor
4. Heat
   1. Air
      1. diesel or electric air heater
   2. Water
      1. Electric
   3. Food
      1. Electric induction
   4. Floor
      1. Electric radiant heat to prevent water from freezing
5. Power, Generic
   1. Capacity and Duration
   2. 110V input charge, J1772 EV Jack or fast charge option
   3. Solar power connection to hybrid batte
   4. Inverter to supply 110V
   5. Battery Chemistry
      1. Ability to function at extreme temperatures
6. Water supply
   1. Cooking
   2. Shower
   3. Toilet
7. Frame
   1. Light fixtures
   2. Food storage
   3. Clothes storage
8. Roof or truck bed
   1. Solar panels
   2. Ventilation fans or moonroof
9. Appliances
   1. Lighting
   2. Air compressor to clean and dry chain.
10. Cooling
    1. Electric Refrigeration
    2. Battery and Generator
    3. A/C system operation with engine off
11. Vehicle
    1. Maintenance in remote locations
    2. Fuel availability (B20 diesel)
    3. Carbon Monoxide detection
    4. Table space
    5. Security System
       1. High energy drain; operates continuously

 

[BikeMike]

Comparing Ford's gas-engine-as-generator EV philosophy with Chrysler's electric-motor-as-generator approach is interesting. Two different approaches to EV range. Both Chrysler and Ford license the same variable electronic transmission technology.

Whether a PHEV or HEV can be used for recreational purposes centers on the electric motor/generator design and implementation. Some basic questions are:

1. Is battery power available when ignition in off position?
2. Is the inverter connected to high voltage (HV) battery or low volltage (12V) lead acid battery?
3. Will the HV battery recharge the LV battery when ignition in off position?
4. Is the HV battery power dependent upon gas engine when ignition in off position?

High Powered eBike Camping: Ford F-150 7.2kW Pro Power Onboard Inverter, 35 kW Motor/Generator with 1.5 kW Li-ion Battery

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electricbikereview.com

Driven: 2019 Ford Transit/Turneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)

The 2019 Ford Transit Custom PHEV is a bit like the Porsche 911 and the BMW i3 Rex. No, really, it is: just like the Bavarian, this is actually an EV with a range extender, which means the three-cylinder turbo never sends power to the wheels, only being used as a generator that provides electric...

www.autoevolution.com

A good comparison of Chrysler, Toyota and Honda minivans.

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Price, Review, Ratings and Pictures | CarIndigo.com

Ranked at #4 in our midsize van of new cars. The new 2021 Chrysler Pacifica starts at $35045. Read our in-depth review and buying advice.

www.carindigo.com

The 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Does Poorly in a Major Category

Minivans are great cars for drivers with large families. Nowadays, these vehicles can't even be considered "uncool"; most have sophisticated interiors,

www.motorbiscuit.com

What, if any, advantage is there in using the electric motors on a 1,200 mile interstate trip from Denver to Portland in a Pacifica? Braking is the only advatage. Otherwise, probably only a disadvantage.

Are electric motors exclusively a short range advantage? Probably.

 

[BikeMike]

2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Review: Expected Release Date, Prices, MPG, And Performance

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is expected to start at $38,100 and will get the same V6 motor with a plug-in hybrid system. It is expected to be a carryover model as the Pacifica got a major overhaul for its 2020 model year. However, there are very minor changes expected with the new model.

www.thecarhp.com

The 9 Speed DCT gearbox is a miss on the Pacifica as it tends to putter too much within gears and appear a little clunky, it is not often that we say this but the optional CVT might just be a better transmission for this vehicle.

The 2020 model came with FWD in all its vehicles but the all-new 2021 model might have an introduction of an AWD drivetrain which makes it a much better choice. It will be easy to handle in tough road conditions since power is well distributed. The Chrysler Pacifica delivers good performance along with easy handling. The AWD drivetrain of 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan is something worth looking for as it will offer better grip and handling as well. However, the comfort and the minivan-like body roll shall stay intact.

Let’s be blunt, if you just want the most reliable, practical and spacious minivan on the market, then the Honda Odyssey still wipes the competition.

However the Pacifica Hybrid is not going to go down with a fight, in fact, it is going to take away a large number of consumers as well. The Pacifica is the best looking minivan on sale right now, it is the only minivan with a plug-in hybrid system, it is the only minivan that is going to return you north of 30 mpg and it is also going to offer a ride quality that is superior to most rivals. This makes the Pacifica Hybrid an excellent choice for family buyers who want a spacious, comfortable, smart looking but also a super frugal minivan.

 

[BikeMike]

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid FAQs | MPG, charging, more

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan. See answers about electric range, power outlet location, and more.

www.chrysler.com

How do the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid technology systems work?

It’s a pretty complex system, but we’ll try to simplify it for you. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid utilizes two electric drive motors, a

1. planetary gear set and a
2. one-way clutch internal to its transmission.

Each electric drive motor has a primary function.

1. One motor is used for charging the HV battery and starting the gas engine while the
2. other is used solely for electric drive operation.

The Pacifica Hybrid is unique in that given the one-way clutch, the charging/starting motor can also be used in dual motor electric drive. This additional functionality improves efficiency and also allows for increased all-electric drive vehicle speed.

The V6 engine is seamlessly integrated into the powertrain and contributes toward HV battery charging or vehicle propulsion automatically based on driving conditions. There is no need for the driver to select modes, no matter what speed or environment.

 

[BikeMike]

2020 Owners manual

Battery Saver On/Battery Saver Mode Message — Electrical Load Reduction Actions — If Equipped

This vehicle is equipped with an Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS) to perform additional monitoring of the electrical system and status of the vehicle battery.

In cases when the IBS detects charging system failure, or the 12 Volt vehicle battery conditions are deteriorating, electrical load reduction actions will take place to extend the driving time and distance of the vehicle. This is done by reducing power to or turning off non-essential 12 Volt electrical loads. Load reduction will be functional when the vehicle propulsion system is active.

The vehicle may not be running depending on the

1. HV battery SOC or
2. temperature.

It will display a message if there is a risk of battery depletion to the point where the vehicle may stall due to lack of electrical supply, or will not restart after the current drive cycle.

When 12 Volt load reduction is activated, the message “Battery Saver On” or “Battery Saver Mode” will appear in the instrument cluster display.



These messages indicate the vehicle battery has a low state of charge and continues to lose electrical charge at a rate that the charging system cannot sustain.

NOTE:

 The charging system is independent from load reduction. The charging system performs a diagnostic on the charging system continuously.

 If the Battery Charge Warning Light is on it may indicate a problem with the charging system. Refer to “Battery Charge Warning Light” in this chapter for further information.

The electrical loads that may be switched off (if equipped), and vehicle functions which can be effected by load reduction:

 Heated Seat/Vented Seats/Heated Wheel  Heated/Cooled Cup Holders — If Equipped  Rear Defroster And Heated Mirrors
 HVAC System

 115 Volts AC Power Inverter System  Audio and Telematics System






Loss of the battery charge may indicate one or more of the following conditions:

• 
   The charging system cannot deliver enough electrical power to the vehicle system because the electrical loads are larger than the capability of charging system. The charging system is still functioning properly.
  
• 
   Turning on all possible vehicle electrical loads (e.g. HVAC to max settings, exterior and interior lights, overloaded power outlets +12 Volts, 150W, USB ports) during certain driving conditions (city driving, towing, frequent stopping).
  
• 
   Installing options like additional lights, upfitter electrical accessories, audio systems, alarms and similar devices.
  
• 
   Unusual driving cycles (short trips separated by long parking periods).
  
• 
   The vehicle was parked for an extended period of time (weeks, months).
  

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 139 After a trip:

 Check if any aftermarket equipment was installed (additional lights, upfitter electrical accessories, audio systems, alarms) and review specifications if any (load and Ignition Off Draw currents).

 Evaluate the latest driving cycles (distance, driving time and parking time).

 The vehicle should have service performed if the message is still present during consecu- tive trips and the evaluation of the vehicle and driving pattern did not help to identify the cause.

Instrument Cluster Display Programmable Features Screen Setup

Push the up or down arrow button to scroll through the Menu Items until the Screen Setup displays in the instrument cluster display. Push the OK button to enter Screen Setup. The Screen Setup feature allows you to change what information is displayed in the instrument cluster display as well as the location that information is displayed.





 The battery was recently replaced and was not charged completely.

 The battery was discharged by an electrical load left on when the vehicle was parked.

 The battery was used for an extended period with the engine not running to supply radio, lights, chargers, +12 Volt portable appli- ances like vacuum cleaners, game consoles and similar devices.

What to do when an electrical load reduction action message is present (“Battery Saver On” or “Battery Saver Mode”)

During a trip:

 Reduce power to unnecessary loads if possible:

 Turn off redundant lights (interior or exte- rior)

 Check what may be plugged in to power outlets +12 Volts, 150W, USB ports

 Check HVAC settings (blower, tempera- ture)

 Check the audio settings (volume)