The 2018 Pacifica uses three different battery configurations depending on the drivetrain: a conventional 12‑volt lead‑acid battery for the gasoline models, a small 48‑volt lithium‑ion battery for the eTorque mild‑hybrid system, and a larger 16‑kilowatt‑hour lithium‑ion high‑voltage pack for the plug‑in hybrid version.
Battery configurations by drivetrain
Here is a breakdown of the battery setups you’ll find in the 2018 Pacifica lineup, including what each battery powers and how it fits into the vehicle’s systems.
Gasoline-powered Pacifica (non-plug-in)
Gasoline-only Pacifcas are equipped with a traditional 12‑volt lead‑acid battery that handles starting and standard electrical loads. In addition, a separate 48‑volt lithium‑ion battery supports the eTorque mild‑hybrid system, providing torque assist, regenerative braking, and smoother engine start/stop behavior. These batteries are part of the vehicle’s technology package, but the driveable energy for propulsion in this setup does not come from the 12V battery.
- 12‑volt lead‑acid battery for starting and accessory power
- 48‑volt lithium‑ion battery for the eTorque mild-hybrid system
- Energy stored is used for torque assist and to improve fuel economy
In gasoline Pacificas, the 12V battery remains a standard feature, while the 48V eTorque system adds mild-hybrid capabilities without enabling extended electric driving.
Chrysler Pacifica Plug‑In Hybrid (PHEV)
The plug‑in hybrid version uses a different, much larger high‑voltage battery pack designed for all‑electric driving. This 16‑kWh lithium‑ion battery provides the electric‑only range, supports regenerative charging, and powers the vehicle’s electric motors when in EV mode.
- 16 kWh lithium‑ion high‑voltage battery pack
- Nominally around 400V for propulsion and electric range
- Addresses up to approximately 32 miles of EPA‑estimated electric range
- Onboard Level 2 charging enables about 2–3 hours to recharge from empty on a 240V connection
The PHEV setup makes the Pacifica capable of driving significant distances on electric power alone, with the gasoline engine acting as a generator when needed.
What this means for owners
Owners should note that the 12V battery is the standard automotive battery for non‑hybrid Pacifcas, while the eTorque system relies on a small 48V pack to deliver torque assistance and efficiency benefits. The plug‑in hybrid, meanwhile, is powered by a sizable 16 kWh high‑voltage battery that enables electric‑only driving and requires regular charging to maximize its all‑electric range.
Maintenance and charging considerations
The 12V battery typically requires routine checks like any conventional vehicle battery, whereas the 48V eTorque pack is managed by the vehicle’s electronics to optimize fuel economy and performance. For the PHEV, charging the 16 kWh pack with a Level 2 charger can restore most or all of its electric range in roughly 2–3 hours, depending on the state of charge and power supply. Regular charging behavior and following manufacturer guidelines will help preserve battery health and performance.
Summary
In 2018, the Chrysler Pacifica lineup employs three battery configurations: a 12‑volt lead‑acid battery for traditional gasoline models, a small 48‑volt lithium‑ion battery for the eTorque mild‑hybrid system, and a 16‑kilowatt‑hour lithium‑ion high‑voltage battery for the plug‑in hybrid. Each serves a distinct role, from starting and accessories to efficiency gains and all‑electric driving, reflecting Chrysler’s approach to combining conventional power with modern electrification.