2011 Dodge Journey - Refreshed Exterior, Revamp Interior

2010 Dodge Journey
Price Range $21,130.00 - $29,785.00	Fuel Economy 19 city / 25 highway Base Engine 173-horsepower L4	Value Rating Average Explore This Car More

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Chrysler has given us a sneak peak of its 2011 Dodge Journey crossover.

Admittedly, the Journey's exterior revisions are modest, at best. Dodge's new corporate grille pattern is applied up front, while the previous model's blocky rear taillights are replaced with sleek, elongated lamp assemblies. No matter, as designers focused their efforts on what really needed work: the interior.

The blocky, plastic-laden interior of the last Journey appears to be a thing of the past. The 2011 model receives a completely overhauled cabin, complete with a sleek, curvaceous instrument panel, similar to that used on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. A new gauge cluster incorporates a full-color LCD vehicle information display, while audio, navigation, climate, and phone systems are apparently bundled into a new touch-screen system, which Chrysler dubs Uconnect Touch. Other improvements include new seats, a revised front storage bin, new steering wheel, and a redesigned center console, which hides power outlets and a USB audio input within its storage cubby.

Mechanically speaking, the biggest news for 2011 comes with the arrival of a new six-cylinder engine offering. As predicted, Chrysler's new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 replaces the aging 3.5-liter V-6, although it continues to be mated with the company's six-speed 62TE automatic transmission. At 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, it represents a 48-horsepower and 28-pound-feet improvement over the outgoing engine. Dodge also says its engineers have refined chassis tuning, reportedly improving the crossover's handling through revised suspension geometry, upgraded tires, and sharpened steering.

Chrysler says production of 2011 Journeys in Toluca, Mexico, will begin shortly, and deliveries to dealers nationwide should commence in the fourth quarter of 2010.


Source: Chrysler courtesy of Automobile Magazine Staff

Chrysler 200C EV Concept Car may replace Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger

It seems like it has been forever since Chrysler has been planning a replacement for the slow-selling Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger. According to Automotive News, Chrysler’s new management is now wrestling with that very decision.

Sources say that Chrysler Group LLC is now planning a replacement based on the Chrysler 200C EV, a concept that made its debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January.


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Chrysler LLC Submits $448 Million Plan to the U.S. Department of Energy for the

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 26, 2009 - Chrysler LLC today announced the company has submitted three proposals outlining a $448-million plan to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in order to rapidly bring Electric Vehicles (EV) and Plug-in Hybrid-electric Vehicles (PHEV) to market.

Chrysler LLC applied for two initiatives established by the DOE—the Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative and the Transportation Electrification Initiative. Both are designed to speed up development, demonstration, evaluation and manufacturing of EVs and PHEVs. The programs represent a 50/50 cost-share opportunity with $224 million from Chrysler LLC and its partners, combined with a matching $224 million from the DOE. These funds will accelerate the market introduction and penetration of advanced powertrains.

“These initiatives represent how government and the automotive industry are answering the challenge of reaching common goals and demonstrate how rapidly this type of advanced technology can be brought to market in a collaborative environment,” said John Bozzella, Senior Vice President—External Affairs and Public Policy, Chrysler LLC. “Without U.S. innovation and production capacity, we will simply trade batteries for oil in the pursuit of transportation energy.”

If approved, Chrysler LLC plans to use funds to build a demonstration fleet of PHEVs and EVs, as well as create a new-vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center located in Michigan. The proposal will enable the production of commercially viable products in a shorter time frame. Combined, Chrysler LLC’s proposal will stimulate the economy and help the company achieve its leadership goals in electrified-vehicle development and production.

The Transportation Electrification Initiative
Chrysler LLC’s $365-million submission for the Transportation Electrification Initiative intends to establish a nationwide demonstration fleet of more than 365 test-fleet vehicles for use by select customers and partners. The Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Ram 1500 are popular models in their respective segments and as PHEVs can achieve substantial greenhouse-gas reduction. To ensure a robust assessment, Chrysler will demonstrate 100 Chrysler Town & Country PHEV minivans and 100 Dodge Ram PHEV pickup trucks across a range of drive cycles and consumer-usage patterns in diverse geographies and climates throughout the United States. The company has established more than a dozen partnerships with city and local governments, research and development authorities, utility companies and universities to test the PHEVs.

In addition, through a partnership between Chrysler LLC’s ENVI group and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), Chrysler LLC will deliver 165 Chrysler Town & Country EV cargo minivans for daily mail service in four regions throughout the country. ENVI has created numerous partnerships with energy providers and utility companies in order to develop an electric-vehicle charging infrastructure that will efficiently service its electric-vehicle test fleet.

The Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative
Within the Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative, Chrysler LLC plans to use as much as $83 million to build a new vehicle electrification technology and manufacturing center in Michigan. This new facility would house development, testing and electric-drive component manufacturing in addition to final assembly of EVs and Range-extended Electric Vehicles (ReEVs). The complex would be functional by 2010 and produce more than 20,000 units per year.

"These proposals present a win-win situation for Chrysler and, most importantly, our customers," said Frank Klegon—Executive Vice President, Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "This plan will accelerate our efforts to develop and manufacture electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles, which will reduce the amount of time it will take to get these vehicles on the road.”

Chrysler LLC would utilize both DOE programs as first steps toward the commercialization of “no compromise” electrified vehicle technologies beyond Hybrid-electric Vehicle (HEV) applications currently on the road.

Last month, ENVI, Chrysler LLC’s in-house electric vehicle organization, made multiple announcements aimed at accelerating the market introduction of electric-drive vehicles. The company created a lithium-ion battery production partnership with U.S. based A123Systems and facilitated a new lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant in Southeastern Michigan—a joint program with A123Systems and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Chrysler also announced its plans to address the future needs of fleet customers, such as the U.S. Postal Service, with a pure-electric Chrysler Town & Country EV Cargo minivan.


Source: Chrysler

Chrysler sees Car Sales Increase slightly after President Barack Obama Speech Posted May 8 2009 12:54 PM by RimZ Filed under: Industry News, Chrysle

DETROIT — Car salesman was probably not among the jobs that President Obama expected to assume during his first few months in the White House.

And a slow weekend at many Chrysler dealerships around the country after the company filed for bankruptcy protection suggests that few consumers were moved by the president’s plea on Thursday to help Detroit’s automakers by buying an American car.

The president’s sales pitch was cheered in Michigan and among Chrysler’s 3,200 dealers. And the company said his speech did help sell 11,400 cars on Thursday — although much of that could have been the inventory clearance that is typical for the last day of a month.

But to the extent there was much action in Chrysler showrooms Saturday and Sunday, it often seemed to be shoppers hoping the company’s plight might prompt dealers to offer give-away prices even lower than deep discounts the company has already been dangling. But sales managers do not have much remaining wiggle room.


Read More inside the NY Times

2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee heralds All-New Pentastar V-6 Engine

New York, Apr 8, 2009 - Chrysler LLC introduced today an all-new line of V-6 engines that will improve fuel efficiency across the Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge lineup by 8 percent on average compared with previous Chrysler V-6 engines.

This more refined and fuel-efficient V-6 engine will ultimately replace seven current Chrysler V-6 engines.

The new 3.6-liter V-6 engine—named Pentastar—is part of the company’s overall $3 billion powertrain offensive. It will first be offered in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, unveiled today at the New York International Auto Show and at the Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah.

“Chrysler’s all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine will offer our customers improved fuel economy, refinement and increased performance across the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicle lineup,” said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President—Product Development, Chrysler LLC. “At the same time, replacing seven current engines with one engine will result in increased flexibility, more efficient operations and significant cost savings to the company.”

The Pentastar is an all-new design, featuring double-overhead camshafts (DOHC) and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60-degree configuration.

In the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine will deliver 280 horsepower (209 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353 N•m) of torque at 4,800 rpm—an increase of 33 percent in horsepower and 11 percent in torque over its predecessor—while providing an 11 percent fuel economy improvement.

“The all-new Pentastar is the most advanced six-cylinder engine Chrysler has ever offered,” said Bob Lee, Vice President—Powertrain Product Team. “This new family of engines uses an architecture conceived with future technology growth and integration in mind.”

The new Pentastar V-6 also will contribute a 2 mpg increase to Chrysler’s CAFE by 2015, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a reduction in oil dependence.

Customers Benefit: Fuel Efficiency, Refinement, Quality, Low Cost of Ownership

During the initial goal setting for the Pentastar program, Chrysler engineers benchmarked the industry’s leading engines to set functional targets. The result is an all-new engine that delivers truly world-class customer attributes.

Chrysler’s all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine design features a double-overhead cam (DOHC), narrow included valve angle, cylinder head and high-flow intake and exhaust ports. This design, combined with dual independent cam phasing, allows optimum volumetric and combustion efficiency over the full speed and load range, resulting in an exceptional, flat torque curve along with high specific power—the engine’s torque exceeds 90 percent of its peak value from 1,600 to 6,400 rpm—which will provide customers with outstanding drivability and responsiveness, without the need for premium fuel.

“Similar to what we did with the HEMI® engine, our engineers used the best combination of design features and technologies to create an engine that satisfies customer requirements,” Lee added. “The elegantly simple design maximizes the functionality of each design element rather than adding technology to claim a feature. The result gives our customers everything they demand from an engine today—class-leading levels of refinement, fuel-efficiency, performance and cost of ownership.”

The advanced oil filter system eliminates oil spills and contains an incinerable filter element—more efficient disposal than the typical spin-on filters, which are disposed of in landfill sites. The use of long-life spark plugs and a high-energy coil-on-plug ignition system also helps to reduce cost of ownership.

The Pentastar V-6 is designed to run on regular gasoline, offering a 10 percent reduction in fuel cost compared with premium fueled engines. The engine also is fully flex fuel capable, offering consumers the choice of gasoline or E85 fuel without any degradation in performance or emissions.

The new state-of-the-art Trenton (Mich.) Engine South Plant will be the lead facility for production of the Pentastar V-6 engine. A duplicate, new facility in Saltillo, Mexico, will ramp up for the 2012 model year.



All-new Chrysler 3.6-liter, DOHC, 24-valve Pentastar V-6 Technical Specifications
Displacement: 3.6 liters
Bore x stroke: 96 x 83 mm
Valve train system: Double-overhead cam with roller finger followers and hydraulic lash adjusters. Dual independent cam-torque actuated phasers
Fuel injection: Multi-point port fuel injection
Construction: High-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block and semi-permanent mold aluminum cylinder head
Maximum engine speed: 7200 rpm
Fuel requirement: E85 (Ethanol) or unleaded regular, 87 octane (R+M)/2
Emission capability: PZEV


Source: Chrysler

2011 Grand Cherokee debuts at New York Auto Show

New York, Apr 8, 2009 - The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee made its world debut today at the New York International Auto Show.

Jeep's all-new premium SUV features an athletic design, an all-new world-class interior, an all-new engine and legendary Jeep capability.

Nearly 18 years ago, Jeep invented the premium SUV segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. More than 4 million sales later, Jeep improves the formula and hits the sweet spot of real-world capability and on-road refinement with the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers premium on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand’s legendary four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case and unsurpassed towing capability. It also offers improved fuel economy (up to 11 percent) and a world-class interior cabin.

“We listened carefully to our customers and the market,” said Scott Kunselman, Vice President – Jeep/Truck Product Team, Chrysler LLC. “Our all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee hits the sweet spot of premium on-road performance and legendary class-leading Jeep capability.”

The all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension system delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability along with the new Selec-Terrain system that allows the driver to choose the drive system that best matches on- or off-road driving conditions. New front and rear independent suspension systems deliver premium on-road handling and comfort.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is built on a proven rear-wheel-drive unibody platform sharing the same underpinnings as the Mercedes-Benz ML.

“Jeep invented the SUV segment and our all-new Grand Cherokee is the next step in the evolution of the SUV,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge Brands. “Jeep innovations including Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain traction control separate us from the crowd.”

Legendary Capability
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the new Quadra-Lift air suspension system. The Quadra-Lift system features five height settings for optimum ride performance:

* Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.1 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy and improved aerodynamics during on-road driving
* Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional 1.5 inches for added height in clearing obstacles (9.6 inches)
* Off-road 2: Delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability and provides an additional 3 inches of height for 11.1 inches of ground clearance
* Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.5 inches from NRH for easy ingress/egress. NRH and Park mode are driver-selectable giving the driver control over vehicle ride height
* Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle .6 inches from NRH. Aero Mode is controlled by vehicle speed and adjusts for optimal performance and fuel economy

Quadra-Lift adds up to 4.5 inches of lift span that is supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride. Quadra-Lift operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via console controls.

In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension, the all-new Selec-Terrain™ traction control system lets customers choose the off-road setting for the optimum experience on all terrains. This feature electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The Selec-Terrain’s control dial allows the driver to choose from five driving conditions in order to achieve the best driving experience on all terrains:

* Sand/Mud: Traction control and Quadra-Lift operate with sensitive response to wheel spin, and torque is tuned for optimal performance
* Sport: Provides enhanced on-road "fun-to-drive" capability
* Auto: Automatically adapts to any on- or off-road situation
* Snow: Vehicle traction and Quadra-Lift adjust for ultimate performance over snow-covered roads
* Rock: Quadra-Lift suspension raises to maximum height (11.1 inches) and the transfer case, differentials, and throttle coordinate to provide low-speed control

Selec-Terrain, coupled with the all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension, offers drivers an adjustable suspension span that delivers legendary Trail Rated® performance.

With the front air dam removed, and the available Quadra-Lift air suspension, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee features a 35.9-degree approach angle, (compared to 32.3 on current model), a 29.2-degree departure angle (compared to 27.5 on current model) and 25.1-degree breakover angle (compared to 20.4 on current model).

The all-new independent front and rear suspension features isolated front and rear suspension cradles. Variable-rate rear springs deliver improved on-road handling and comfort that complements the vehicle’s off-road capability. The new rear suspension allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath.

Go-Anywhere 4x4 Systems
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers three 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive® II).

Quadra Trac I delivers full-time four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull. The system provides smooth operation over a variety of road conditions. This lightweight single-speed case is both proven and highly efficient for enhanced fuel economy.

Quadra Trac II’s two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before slippage occurs. When tire slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction.

Quadra Drive II, with a rear Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD), delivers industry-leading tractive capability. The system instantly detects tire slip and smoothly distributes engine torque to tires with traction. In some cases, the vehicle will anticipate low traction and adjust in order to proactively limit or eliminate slip.

Selec-Terrain is standard with Quadra Trac II and Quadra Drive II.

Jeep Trail Rated®
All 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokees equipped with either the off-road or the Quadra-Lift group are Trail Rated®. The Jeep Trail Rated badge on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee indicates that the vehicle has been designed to perform in a variety of challenging off-road conditions identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording.

Jeep Trail Rated is a unique methodology used by Jeep Engineering to measure and predict off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Through a combination of natural and controlled field tests, Jeep Trail Rated provides a consistent measurement of off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Only Jeep vehicles are Trail Rated.

Powertrains
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with two leading engine options for North American markets.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s standard engine is an all-new flexible fuel 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. The 3.6-liter V-6 engine is an all-new design featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60-degree configuration. It features Variable-Valve Timing (VVT) and delivers 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 N•m) @ 4,800 rpm. This all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine improves fuel economy up to 11 percent compared to the previous Grand Cherokee equipped with a V-6. It is coupled with the proven W5A580, a five-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy. The five-speed W5A580 transmission includes adaptive electronic control or Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver-interactive manual control and an electronically modulated torque converter clutch.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s larger fuel tank, with a 24.6 gallon capacity, combined with the V-6 engine’s improved fuel economy, delivers a range of approximately 500 miles on one tank of gas.

The available legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivers 360 horsepower (268 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 N•m) @ 4,250 rpm. The HEMI also features VVT, which delivers performance and towing capability, as well as fuel efficiency with the fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS). The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is mated to the 545RFE multi-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers unsurpassed trailer tow capability of up to 7,400 lbs. on 4x2 models when equipped with the HEMI V-8 engine.

For international markets, the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be available in left- and right-hand drive with either diesel or petrol powertrains.

World-class Interior Refinement
The all-new interior is elevated to that of its European competition and features rich materials and elegant appointments, as well as more room for both passengers and cargo.

“Following in the footsteps of our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, our all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is another proud graduate of our Advanced Interior Design Studio,” said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Design. “We achieved a world-class interior by using fine materials and maintaining a laser-attention to details.”

An available all-new CommandView® dual-pane sun roof provides twice as much glass surface than a standard sun roof and extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle. The front panel may be opened rearward, providing additional light and fresh air to first-row passengers. The rear panel, which is fixed, allows light and open viewing for second-row passengers and comes standard with a power sun shade.

Right-sized Packaging
The vehicle’s 114.8-inch wheelbase is 5.3 inches longer than the model it replaces and contributes to an overall vehicle length that is 1.8 inches longer than the prior model. The longer wheelbase creates more interior room and gives passengers an additional 4 inches of rear-seat knee and leg room. The vehicle also is 3 inches wider for improved handling and packaging.

Larger front door openings (1.9 inches wider; 2 inches higher) and rear doors open 78 degrees compared to current models (67 degrees) for better access to the interior.

Inside, premium seating includes room for five passengers. An available fold-flat front-passenger seat provides improved cargo storage room (Laredo models).

For added passenger comfort, rear seats recline 12 degrees. There also is a 12-degree forward angle to allow 24 degrees of variation.

Cargo volume behind the second-row provides an additional 6.8 cubic feet of room (36.3 cubic feet total) compared to the previous model. The well-appointed rear cargo area includes a storage unit with a rechargeable flashlight and new and improved grocery hooks on both sides. The spare tire compartment includes removable dual storage bins for secure storage of muddy gear or other items.

An all-new power rear liftgate is available for effortless remote up/down convenience.

Classic Exterior Design
Every surface of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is new and treated for aerodynamics. This improves fuel efficiency and puts more fluidity into the design while delivering a 7- percent improvement in drag compared with the current model. The all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee Cd is approximately 0.37 compared with the 2009 Cd of 0.404.

“Our all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is much more refined, focused and sportier than the model it replaces,” said Gilles. “It has classic Jeep Grand Cherokee styling with sculpted athletic exterior refinements for 2011.”

The front includes Jeep’s classic seven-slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel arches. The removable lower front fascia delivers improved fuel economy, on-road performance and off-road capability. The lower front fascia features a large chromed appliqué (Limited and Overland models) that showcases available tow hooks.

From the side, Jeep Grand Cherokee features an athletic, muscular profile. Black appliqués on B-pillars give the day-light opening (DLO) an aerodynamic, modern appearance and a sleek profile. Available chromed mirrors and door handles add to the profile and complement the full-chromed DLO surround on all models.

Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and deliver off-road capability, with optional 18-inch and all-new to Jeep, 20-inch wheels for 2011.

Taillamps wrap from the rear quarter panel to the back of the vehicle and create a solid form which achieves more of an upscale appearance. The treatment complements the front-end design and resonates with the rest of the exterior.

Jeep Grand Cherokee models equipped with a HEMI V-8 engine have 3.5-inch dual chromed exhaust tips, and those with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine have a 3-inch single exhaust.

Premium Performance
Continuing to build on the Jeep brand’s legendary off-road capability, the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee adds premium on-road performance to complete the package.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s premium SUV on-road manners and legendary Jeep ruggedness is achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone. Torsional stiffness is 146 percent more than the current Grand Cherokee and stiffer than the BMW X5 and Toyota Highlander for improved durability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

With more than 3,700 mm of arc welding and 100 m of structural adhesive to augment welding, this marks a 53-percent increase in spot welds, a 42-percent increase in arc welds and a 38-percent increase in structural adhesive.

More than 45 Safety and Security Features
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 45 safety and security features.

Standard safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with rough-road detection, four-wheel Brake Traction Control System (BTCS), Passive Entry/Keyless Go, Remote keyless entry, express up/down windows for driver and front-seat passenger, seat-belt pretensioners, Trailer-Sway Control and Remote-Start which is standard on Overland and available on Limited.

Other standard safety features include full-length side-curtain air bags which extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers, seat-mounted side thorax air bags that enhance protection for the driver and front passenger and active head restraints which deploy in the event of a rear collision.

The body structure is all new and designed to achieve expected safety performance in global markets (new roof-crush standards, side-impact standards and Euro pedestrian impact).

Connectivity and Infotainment Features
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will feature uconnect guardian as a standard feature on all models (services provided by Hughes Telematics).

uconnect guardian provides customers with the top five requested security features. uconnect guardian customers can access the following:

* Automatic Crash Notification – In the event of an accident, a call is placed and a request for assistance is dispatched to the vehicle’s location
* Emergency Call – With a push of the emergency button, customers are placed in contact with a trained emergency response specialist during an emergency situation
* Roadside Assistance Call – Connects customers to a uconnect customer care specialist who can connect them to Chrysler’s road-side assistance for towing or jump starts
* Remote Door Unlock – Remotely unlocks doors with a simple phone call
* Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance – Works with local authorities via on-demand tracking to provide the current location of the vehicle if it is stolen

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee also features SIRIUS Travel Link. Giving drivers up-to-the-minute information about, gas prices, weather conditions, sports scores and movie listings. In addition, the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee features SIRIUS Traffic, which monitors traffic in 78 markets across the U.S. and continuously displays those conditions through the vehicle’s nav system. Together SIRIUS Traffic and Travel Link connect Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers and passengers to the information they need while on- or off-road.

Manufacturing
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be built at the 2.7-million-square-foot Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which has been the site of Grand Cherokee production since its introduction in 1992.

In preparation for production of the all-new Grand Cherokee, Jefferson North Assembly is undergoing a 285,000-square-foot expansion to replace the existing body shop, which is part of Chrysler’s investment of approximately $1.8 billion in new vehicle programs. In addition, changes throughout paint and assembly operations will give the facility an all-new level of manufacturing flexibility for multiple product capability.

JNAP was built in 1991 and was expanded in 1999.

Jeep Brand
Staying true to its values and character, the Jeep® brand is purpose-built for adventurous lifestyles. With 68 years of legendary 4x4 capability, the Jeep brand continues to fulfill promises of adventure, liberation and independence for those who embrace life, whether traveling on- or off-road. The ruggedness and responsiveness of Jeep vehicles provide owners with a sense of security to handle any situation with confidence.

For 2009, the brand’s legendary Go Anywhere, Do Anything™ heritage is maintained with the addition of more interior refinement, comfort and technology in the widest range of sport-utility vehicles under one brand. The Jeep product line includes the brand icon, the Jeep Wrangler; the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited; the popular mid-size Jeep Liberty (Cherokee outside North America); the venerable Jeep Grand Cherokee; the seven-passenger Jeep Commander; and the Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass with all-new redesigned interiors and fuel economy of 28 mpg.


Press release via Chrysler/Jeep

Auto, Car Part Suppliers shipping to Chrysler thanks to $5 Billion US Loan

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 8, 2009 - Chrysler LLC today announced the launch of the Company’s Supplier Support Program, as a result of the recent Obama Administration’s announcement of a $5 billion program to provide suppliers with the confidence they need to continue shipping parts; and the support they need to help access loans to pay their employees and continue their operations.

“Chrysler is extremely pleased to be able to assist in extending this support to help stabilize our supply base, preserve American jobs and ensure the continued production of quality vehicles through our Supplier Support Program,” said Chrysler LLC Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer Scott Garberding. “We applaud the initiative set forth by the Administration and appreciate that Chrysler and the U.S. Treasury came to complete agreement on the terms and conditions of the Company’s program expeditiously. This would not have been possible without the endorsement of our first lien bank group -- J.P.Morgan Chase, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and others – who provided the necessary authorization allowing Chrysler to make the equity contribution to implement Chrysler’s Supplier Support Program.”

Chrysler’s program is available to suppliers of production parts and materials that are incorporated in the U.S. The program will be administered by Citi Bank and the supplier on-boarding process is already underway. Under the program guidelines, suppliers have two options available: (1) insurance of Chrysler's accounts receivable or (2) accelerated payment of Chrysler's accounts receivable. The cost of the insurance option is 2 percent of each invoice and the cost of the accelerated payment option is 3 percent of each invoice. Any suppliers interested in the program should contact their buyer for more details.

As part of the Administration’s Supplier Support Program, U.S. Treasury agreed to contribute a $1.5 billion line of credit, with the requirement that Chrysler make a 5% capital infusion. Chrysler’s loan agreement requires authorization of the first lien bank group prior to the Company contributing capital into a new company.

Chrysler will continue to work with the President’s Auto Task Force on implementation of its program.


Press release via Chrysler

Chrysler debuts 25th Anniversary Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan Editions

Auburn Hills, Mich., Mar 17, 2009 - While Trivial Pursuit was the gaming craze in 1984, nothing about Chrysler’s invention—the minivan—was trivial. With more minivan-first innovations than any other minivan on the market—ever, Chrysler and Dodge minivans continue to be the best vehicles to haul families and their belongings. And with more than 40 percent U.S market share, the third largest name plate in Canada, unsurpassed fuel economy and sales in more than 80 countries—2009 Chrysler and Dodge minivans trivialize the competition.

In celebration of the minivan’s Silver Anniversary, Chrysler is offering all-new 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan 25th Anniversary Edition minivans, loaded with minivan-first innovations and premium features, to celebrate the invention that changed family transportation forever.

Commemorating more than 12 million minivans sold since 1983, Chrysler and Dodge 25th Anniversary Edition minivans feature special “25th Anniversary Edition” exterior badging, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels with Mineral Gray painted accents and a large selection of value-added features, including premium leather seating, and the segment’s first and only Stow ‘n Go® seating and storage system.

Best-in-class aerodynamics and a minivan-first six-speed automatic transmission provide 2009 Chrysler and Dodge 25th Anniversary Edition minivans with efficient-dynamics. A 4.0-liter V-6 aluminum engine offers unsurpassed fuel economy and the minivan-segment’s best combination of horsepower (251 hp), torque (259 ft.-lb.). With an EPA fuel economy rating of 17 city and 25 highway mpg, the powerful 4.0-liter engine gives customers the fuel economy they want and the power they expect.

“Since Chrysler began its minivan development more than 25 years ago, no competitor has innovated as many minivan-first features as Chrysler and Dodge minivans,” said Mike Accavitti, Director—Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Brands, Chrysler LLC. “With numerous minivan segment-exclusive features like Stow `n Go seating and storage, dual-DVD entertainment system and an unsurpassed fuel economy rating, it is no surprise that 2009 Chrysler and Dodge minivans together command more than 40 percent of the U.S. minivan market.”

These special-edition minivans are available now at Chrysler and Dodge dealers nationwide with a U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $34,180 and $31,995, respectively (including $820 destination).

2009 Chrysler Town & Country 25th Anniversary Edition
The 2009 Chrysler Town & Country 25th Anniversary Edition minivans feature a 3.8-liter V-6 engine and fluid six-speed automatic transmission. In addition, this special-edition Chrysler Town & Country features an even more luxurious interior. New interior combinations in Dark Slate Gray and Light Shale are paired with Dark Maple Burl trim and satin finishes on the instrument panel and doors to provide added detail. New monotone Dark Slate Gray or Light Shale seats feature perforated leather and are finished with French-seamed seat stitching. Additional standard features include the minivan-first Stow `n Go seating and storage system, uconnect tunes, minivan-first second- and third-row nine-inch dual-DVD entertainment system, LED lighting with ambient halo light ring, heated first- and second-row seating and uconnect tunes.

Exterior equipment on the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country 25th Anniversary Edition includes the availability of all-new Mineral Gray Metallic exterior paint, unique nine-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels with Mineral Gray Metallic painted pockets, chrome belt and body-side moldings, roof rack with cross bars and “25th Anniversary Edition” badging.

Available features on this special-edition 2009 Chrysler Town & Country include segment-exclusive uconnect studios SIRIUS Backseat TV with Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network Mobile, uconnect gps, all-new Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Path (RCP) accident-avoidance systems and the 4.0-liter aluminum V-6 engine that achieves a minivan-best fuel economy label of 17 city / 25 highway mpg.

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 25th Anniversary Edition
The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 25th Anniversary Edition minivans feature a fluid six-speed automatic transmission and powerful 4.0-liter aluminum V-6 engine with a minivan-best fuel economy label of 17 city / 25 highway mpg as standard equipment. Inside, the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 25th Anniversary Edition adds even more enhancements to the contemporary Dodge interior. Dark Slate Gray or Light Shale interior combinations complement the sporty interior of the Dodge brand’s fifth-generation minivan. A unique combination of Blackwood on the instrument panel and doors accent satin finishes and provide a sense of added detail. An updated instrument panel includes a new Dodge-specific four-gauge cluster, additional satin finishes and a glove box with Blackwood trim. New monotone Dark Slate Gray or Light Shale seats feature perforated leather with French-seamed seat stitching. Additional standard features include minivan-first Stow `n Go seating and storage system, heated first- and second-row seating, uconnect studios SIRIUS Satellite Radio and LED lighting with ambient halo light ring.

Additional available equipment on the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 25th Anniversary Edition includes the availability of all-new Mineral Gray Metallic exterior paint, new sport-tuned suspension with unique five-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels featuring Mineral Gray painted pockets, chrome belt moldings, fog lamps, roof rack with cross bars and “25th Anniversary Edition” badging.

Some of the available features on this special-edition 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan include minivan-first second- and third-row nine-inch dual-DVD entertainment system, uconnect studios SIRIUS Backseat TV with Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network Mobile, uconnect gps, all-new BSM and RCP accident-avoidance systems.

The Ultimate “Family Room on Wheels”
The most flexible seating and storage system in the minivan segment, Stow ’n Go is standard on all 2009 Chrysler and Dodge minivan models, giving customers second- and third-row seating that quickly and conveniently folds into the floor.

Innovative entertainment features complement Chrysler and Dodge minivans’ unique second- and third-row seating. An available nine-inch widescreen dual-DVD system with second- and third-row monitors can play different media at the same time, while the segment-exclusive uconnect studios SIRIUS Backseat TV with Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network Mobile provides satellite entertainment with family-fun programming.

Front-row passengers may also enjoy features of the uconnect tunes with music, audio, movie and personalized picture display capability, a 30-gigabyte hard drive for 6,700 songs, USB port, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, front-row movie playback (in Park as permitted by state regulations), an audio jack for any MP3 player audio playback and iPod connectivity in the glove box. uconnect gps adds even more capability with navigation, voice controls and real-time traffic monitoring.

More Than 30 Safety and Security Features
With more than 30 safety and security features, the 25th Anniversary Edition Chrysler and Dodge minivans offer minivan-first Blind Spot and Rear Cross Path advance safety systems. The all-new BSM accident-avoidance system detects a possible unseen vehicle when changing lanes. The RCP accident-avoidance system aids the driver any time the vehicle is in Reverse and warns if any traffic is moving toward the vehicle. Both systems utilize dual ultra-wideband radar sensors that notify the driver via an audible chime and a visible icon on outside mirrors.

Chrysler and Dodge minivans feature standard all-row supplemental side-curtain air bags, advance multi-stage front-driver and passenger air bags and an Electronic Stability Program that have helped both minivans achieve top safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the U.S. Government.

Chrysler Brand
The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, intuitive innovation and technology—all at an extraordinary value—since the company was founded in 1926.

Whether it is the groundbreaking, bold design of the Chrysler 300, the sleek elegant styling of a Sebring Convertible, or the “family room on wheels” functionality of the Chrysler Town & Country, Chrysler brand vehicles reward the passion, creativity and sense of accomplishment of its owners. Beyond just exceptionally designed vehicles, the Chrysler brand has incorporated thoughtful features into all of its products, such as the Stow 'n Go seating and storage system on the Chrysler Town & Country, the fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System (MDS) in the Chrysler 300 and uconnect phone utilizing Bluetooth technology on the Chrysler Sebring and Chrysler Sebring Convertible. Both Sebring models also achieve at least 28 highway mpg fuel economy.

The Chrysler brand's succession of innovative product introductions continues to solidify the brand's standing as the leader in design, engineering and value. The premium for the Chrysler brand is in the product, not the price.

Dodge Brand
With a work-hard, play-hard attitude, the Dodge brand continues to offer a full line of cars, trucks, SUVs, commercial vehicles and sales-leading, fifth-generation minivans in 2009.

Dodge introduced several new vehicles in 2008, including the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the 2009 Dodge Challenger and the 2009 Dodge Ram. Dodge also celebrates the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year.

Also in 2008, Dodge Journey entered key volume markets outside North America, joining the Dodge Avenger, Nitro and Caliber. Dodge Caliber was the highest sales volume vehicle for the company outside North America in 2008.



Source: Chrysler/Dodge