AUTOS

Chrysler to Add Electric Vehicle Surcharge in California: Chairman Robert J. Eaton said that instead of protesting plans by California requiring the sale of electric vehicles, the auto maker will add a surcharge to its gasoline-powered vehicles to cover the costs of electric cars. Eaton, at a two-day seminar in San Gusme, Italy, outlining the company’s plans, said a surcharge is the only way Chrysler Corp. will be able to sell electric vehicles without losing a substantial amount of money. California will require the sale of electric vehicles starting in 1998. Specifically, Eaton said Chrysler may sell electric-powered vehicles for “a couple of thousand dollars less” than gasoline cars. He said the discount will be necessary to attract buyers. Chrysler will then add a surcharge on the remaining vehicles sold in California to cover the cost of the electric cars.