Reinforcement rings enhance all-new Chrysler Pacifica’s ride, handling. 

Chrysler,Manufacturing | October 10 2016

Minivan Monday: All-new Chrysler Pacifica minivan runs rings around competition

It’s no idle boast to say the all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivan affords a smooth, quiet ride. The words literally ring true.

“The Pacifica has five reinforcement rings, strategically placed from front to back, that circle the vehicle’s lateral circumference,” said FCA US engineer Jeff Tibbenham, who is responsible for body structure. “These rings work together to minimize the effects of deflection caused by uneven roads.”

Deflection is a product of torsion, which describes the twisting effect of rough roads on a vehicle body. And the resulting squeaks and rattles ring hollow with minivan buyers.

The 2016 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study considered the impact unwanted noise has on this demographic. According to the study’s “Truly Exceptional” index, 86% of survey respondents would not regard their vehicles as such if they experienced a single issue.

Excessive torsion may also induce handling hiccups. But these, too, are mitigated by the all-new Pacifica’s innovative design.

“We really raised the bar on the ride and handling,” Tibbenham told the International Automotive Body Congress, which convened recently in Dearborn, Michigan.

Put another way, FCA US engineers grabbed the brass ring.

Eric Mayne

Engineering, Safety & Regulatory Affairs Communication
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Engineering, Safety & Regulatory Affairs Communication