The Chrysler Portal concept was designed from the inside out, with the automaker first focusing on cabin functionality and available technologies before turning to the drive system and other similar aspects of the vehicle.

Just because the Portal’s interior layout and state-of-the-art infotainment system were the focus of Chrysler designers doesn’t mean the engineering behind the vehicle is second-rate. The Portal boasts a sophisticated electric drive system that consists of a large 100 kWh lithium ion battery pack and an electric motor driving the front wheels – a combo that results in a total electric range of 250 miles.

In addition to the powertrain, the Portal also lays claim to an SAE Level 3 autonomous driving system. The SAE currently recognizes five levels of autonomous drive, with Level 3 meaning the vehicle is capable of driving itself, however a human driver must be present so the vehicle can shift driving function in certain traffic situations or environmental conditions. For comparison’s sake, Tesla’s Autopilot self-driving function bridges the gap between Level 2 and Level 3.

Hear what Portal engineer Ashley Edgar has to say about the engineering behind the vehicle’s powertrain and autonomous driving functionality in the video embedded above.