Chrysler plans to develop a variety of vehicles based on its newly introduced global mid-sized platform, ranging from hatchbacks and sedans to small pickups and crossovers, according to the company's head of product development, Frank Klegon.

Speaking to Automotive news at the Chicago Auto Show, Klegon said the new platform will replace that currently in use in the Chrysler Sebring , Dodge Avenger, and Dodge Journey.

In December, as part of the company's product realignment, Chrysler created a team, Project D, headed by engineer Michael Donoughe, to work on the next-generation vehicles that will utilize the mid-sized base around the world.

Klegon said, "They have to look at where we ought to go with the next midsegment cars. That goes from taking an existing platform and building upon it, to designing a new platform. It could be front-wheel drive; it could be rear-wheel drive; it could be the ability to switch.

Among the group's responsibilities are the decision about where the new vehicles will be built and whether or not Chrysler should seek partnerships with other automakers. New vehicles evolving from this development effort are expected to appear within five to six years.

Size and weight are major determining factors, as all automakers are feeling pressure to meet the new fuel economy standards. "Everybody is hunting down this formula," said Klegon.