A Chrysler Pacifica minivan mysteriously appears on Vietnamese streets.
Recently, a Chrysler Pacifica minivan unexpectedly appeared in the Long Bien area of Hanoi, sparking curiosity among car enthusiasts.
Báo Khoa học và Đời sống•05/06/2025
Brand-new Chrysler Pacifica was transported in a specialized vehicle, with the logo completely covered, but the distinctive overall design of the Pacifica line made it easy for viewers to recognize this as the famous American model. Notably, this is the first time the Chrysler Pacifica has appeared in Vietnam, even though the Chrysler brand is not officially distributed in the country. This is not the latest version, effectively ruling out commercial distribution in Vietnam. A LiDAR system – a sensor technology commonly found in self-driving cars – is visible on the roof. This suggests that the Pacifica was likely imported not for consumer use but for research and development purposes.
In the US, the Chrysler Pacifica is a popular choice for companies developing self-driving cars, such as Waymo – a subsidiary of Alphabet (Google). The appearance of this minivan with similar LiDAR sensors in Hanoi further strengthens the hypothesis that it is a vehicle used for research or testing of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The Chrysler Pacifica belongs to the premium minivan segment, directly competing with models such as the Kia Carnival, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Sienna. In terms of size, the Pacifica is slightly longer and wider than the Kia Carnival, with a nearly identical wheelbase, providing a more spacious interior.
The Pacifica appearing in Vietnam is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine combined with an electric motor, producing a total power output of approximately 260 horsepower. It boasts impressive fuel consumption of only about 2.8 liters/100 km and can travel up to 51 km on pure electric power. Inside, the Pacifica offers 7 or 8-seat configuration options. The second and third rows of seats can be folded flat to the floor, optimizing cargo space. The vehicle is equipped with many premium amenities such as heated and massage seats, an entertainment system with two headrest screens for the rear seats, and a 3-zone automatic climate control system. In terms of technology, the Pacifica boasts an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), including a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, and automatic parking assist, contributing to an enhanced driving experience and safety.
Although the owner or the exact purpose of the Chrysler Pacifica's appearance in Hanoi remains unclear, this event suggests that self-driving car technology is being quietly tested in Vietnam. Video : Watch the details of the new generation Chrysler Pacifica minivan.
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