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Chrysler Group News
Chrysler Brand official sponsor of ‘Fashion Miami’
“Arrive in Style” is a core belief within the Chrysler Brand and is supported by the brand’s distinct vehicle designs that showcase craftsmanship and innovation. The Chrysler brand is taking that belief to the runway as the official sponsor of “Fashion Miami” in Miami Beach, Fla., March 10-14.
“Fashion Miami” is presented by the Chrysler Brand and features a collection of fall/winter runway shows and events taking place at a 35,000 square-foot temporary structure in the heart of the Miami Design District.
“Fashion Miami is the perfect platform to support not only the fashion industry, but the ideals of design and craftsmanship, along with intuitive innovation and technology,” Olivier Francois, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, said. “The Chrysler brand shares many of the same philosophies of the fashion industry and the talented designers that show and illustrate in their collections during Fashion Week.”
On the evening of Thursday, March 11, Haitian-born handbag designer, Phelicia Dell, and the Chrysler Brand will partner for a fashion show featuring her design collection to raise funds for Haiti earthquake relief efforts. Dell’s draws inspiration from her Haitian cultural values and background. Last year, she was awarded with the honor of “Best Emerging Handbag Designer” in a global competition. Dell’s factory in Haiti was destroyed in the recent earthquake.
The Chrysler Brand will present the “Fashion Group International Award” on Friday, March 12, to four influential leaders and contributors to the Miami fashion industry, including Eva Hughes, Editor of Vogue en Espanol; Beacon Council, Economic Development Partner for Miami-Dade County; Silvia Tcherassi, designer; Loren Ridinger, entrepreneur.
Fashion Group International is a global, nonprofit, professional organization with 5,000 members in the fashion industry including apparel, accessories, beauty and home. The group’s mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design, and to help its members become more effective in their careers. To do this, Fashion Group International provides insights on major trends in person, online and in print; access to business professionals and a gateway to the influence fashion plays in the marketplace.
Chrysler brand and fashion aficionados can follow the events on the brand’s YouTube channel, Facebook page and Twitter handle for the most current behind-the-scenes tweets and photos, designer interviews and video clips. (Those with Internet access and personal accounts outside of work can go to: Facebook.com/Chrysler; Twitter.com/ChryslerAutos; YouTube.com/Chrysler.)
Ram is first truck in Texas to offer live, mobile TV
Live, mobile TV technology is now available in Texas. Mopar®, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer care brand, now is channeling live, mobile TV into Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram vehicles.
The company is showcasing its new technology in a Ram 2500 at the 2010 Dallas Auto Show. The Chrysler Group is the first automaker in the United States to offer live, mobile TV to consumers. The system offers something for everyone: college and professional sports, breaking news, children’s shows, primetime sitcoms, reality TV and daytime dramas. Mopar’s suggested retail price is $629, plus installation.
A one-year pre-paid subscription is included with installation.
The television signals are delivered through a dedicated multicast network built by San Diego-based FLO TV Inc., a live, mobile TV service provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc. FLO TV offers live and time-shifted programming from top entertainment brands.
Special paint scheme featured on Keselowski’s Charger
Brad Keselowski’s No. 12 Dodge Charger from Penske Racing will carry a special paint scheme featuring Dodge, Mopar® and FLO TV this weekend for the Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Keselowski will be making his first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series start at Atlanta in the No. 12 Dodge/Mopar/FLO TV Charger.
The all-red Dodge Charger will have all three partners—Dodge, Mopar and FLO TV—prominently featured in the paint scheme. The Dodge logo will occupy both rear-quarter panels while the Mopar logo will be positioned on the rear deck lid along with a FLO TV logo, which will also be featured above the rear bumper.
“We are the first automaker in the United States to offer live, mobile television,” Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO—Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, said. “We’re excited to team up with Dodge and Penske Racing to promote Mopar and FLO TV to the NASCAR audience.”
Dodge swept both Sprint Cup races last year at Atlanta’s 1.54-mile track. Keselowski’s teammate, Kurt Busch, is the defending Kobalt Tools 500 champion. In three Nationwide Series starts at AMS, Keselowski has one top-five and two top-10 finishes.
When Dodge returned to NASCAR’s premier series in 2001, the program included the sponsorship of two cars. That sponsorship continued through the 2007 season. This weekend will mark the first time the Dodge logo has held a primary sponsorship position on a Sprint Cup car since the end of the 2007 season.
Sprint Cup teams had a 90-minute practice session at 2:30 p.m. today. Qualifying gets underway at 6:10 p.m. today.
How FLO TV works
Television signals are delivered through a dedicated multicast network built by San Diego-based FLO TV Inc., a live, mobile TV service provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc. FLO TV offers live and time-shifted programming from top entertainment brands.
Content includes programming from ABC, ABC Entertainment, ABC Family, ABC News, Adult Swim Mobile, CBS, CBS College Sports, CBS News, CNBC, CNN Mobile, Comedy Central, Disney Channel, Disney Channel Original Movies, ESPN, ESPNews, ESPN 2, Fox, Fox News Channel, Fox Sports, Fuel TV, MSNBC, MTV, NBC, NBC2Go, NBC News, NBC Sports, Nickelodeon, Playhouse Disney, SoapNet and Speed.
The service is available in more than 100 major markets and many interstate driving corridors, however it is not available in some rural areas.
Audiovox Corp., of Hauppauge, N.Y., supplies FLO TV auto entertainment hardware that integrates with Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram vehicles’ existing entertainment systems and new Mopar 7-inch DVD screen systems. A small antenna, similar in size to a laptop mouse, is mounted on a vehicle’s roof to deliver the digital TV signal. Inside the vehicle, the receiver and wiring are installed under the interior trim of the vehicle and are not visible to occupants.
User-friendly wired and wireless remote controls allow viewers to easily surf channels, similar to TV systems at home.
Mopar’s live, mobile TV option includes a three-year/36,000-mile warranty on new vehicles or a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on used vehicles for hardware and installation. The suggested retail price is $629, plus installation. A one-year pre-paid subscription is included with installation.
February 2010 U.S. market share
Dodge looks to three-peat at Atlanta Motor Speedway
After a grueling early season schedule that included back-to-back trips to Los Angeles and Las Vegas, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series returns east to the Peachtree State and Atlanta Motor Speedway where Dodge has been dominant in recent years.
The Dodge Boys swept both NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Atlanta Motor Speedway last year and have claimed eight of the last 12 pole positions when qualifying has not been rained out. Racing at Atlanta is about high-horsepower, tire wear and surviving those pesky late race green-white-checker finishes.
Kurt Busch (No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge Charger) dominated last year’s Kobalt Tools 500, leading 234 of 330 laps at the 1.54-mile quad oval and earning a perfect driver rating of 150.0. Team owner Roger Penske considered the win “the most dominant Cup win I’ve seen since Rusty Wallace at Pocono in 2000.”
The dominant performance by Busch had its own memorable moment. It was at Atlanta Motor Speedway a year ago where the Penske Racing veteran displayed his race win excitement in the infamous “reverse victory lap.”
“That was pretty cool,” Busch said. “Me and some buddies were talking about what to do for a victory lap if our Miller Lite Dodge had won the race at Atlanta. Someone said, ‘Hey, do a lap in reverse.’ So after I won, I had to hold up my end of the bargain. Our Miller Lite Dodge was fast going forward and backwards that day. We ended up calling it the ‘unwind lap’ … a great chance to celebrate a Penske Dodge win with a cold Miller Lite and unwind. Hopefully, we can do it again this year.”
Busch has two wins, two top-five and six top-10 finishes in 18 Sprint Cup starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Sam Hornish Jr. (No. 77 Mobil 1 Dodge Charger) will be making his fifth start at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend. The crafty Ohio native knows that patience and tire wear are all so important on the aged asphalt of Atlanta.
“Atlanta Motor Speedway is a fast track,” Hornish said. “Tire wear is a big concern, and as they wear off, your lap times get slower and the cars slide around on the track all race long. You never really feel in control at all during the race. The track changes so much from year to year that it seems hard to get a good handle on it.”
Brad Keselowski (No. 12 Mopar/FLO TV Dodge Charger) is making his first-career Sprint Cup start at Atlanta Motor Speedway with a special paint scheme. In three Nationwide Series starts at Atlanta, Keselowski has one top-five and two top 10 finishes.
Keselowski’s No. 12 Dodge will carry a Mopar®, FLO TV and Dodge scheme. The all-red Charger will have all three partners—Mopar, FLO TV and Dodge—prominently featured in the paint scheme. The Dodge logo will occupy both rear quarter panels while Mopar is positioned on the rear deck lid and shares the hood with FLO TV which is also featured above the rear bumper.
“I’ve always enjoyed racing at Atlanta in the Nationwide Series and I’m excited to make my first Cup Series start there this weekend,” Keselowski said. “Our Dodges are fast which will make Atlanta a lot of fun. You can run all over the track, but it seems to me that you need to run the bottom to be the most successful. The track is abrasive on tires, so you can’t abuse them early in a run.”
This weekend’s race is the fourth of 36 point events on the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cups Series schedule. Dodge is seeking its ninth trip to victory lane at Atlanta.
NASCAR Nationwide Series
While the Sprint Cup Series and the Camping World Truck Series are at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend, the Nationwide Series has the first of six open dates on its schedule. The Nationwide Series is off for consecutive weeks before returning March 20 at Bristol, Tenn.
What you need to know
The Race: Kobalt Tools 500
The Place: Atlanta Motor Speedway
The Date: Sunday, March 7
The Time: 1 p.m. (EST)
The Track: 1.54- mile D-shaped oval
The Distance: 325 laps/500.5 miles
Television: Fox, prerace begins at noon (EST)
Executive appointments announced
In a continued effort to focus on core competencies and efficiencies, Chrysler Group LLC today named two appointments within its executive ranks.
Steve Williams has been named Head of Advance Engineering, Planning and Regulatory Affairs. In that role, Williams continues his responsibility for all advance engineering and assumes the Company’s regulatory and planning activities.
In addition, the Company appointed Stephen J. Bartoli Head of International Product Planning, Business Development and Integration. In this position, Bartoli will be responsible for leading Product Planning, Market, Brand and Business Strategy and Alliance Planning for international markets.
Williams joined Chrysler in 1990 and has held a series of positions with increasing responsibility in engineering. He received both a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and business administration from Wayne State University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University.
Bartoli holds a master’s degree in business administration from Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern University and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame. He joined Chrysler in 1986 and has held various positions in product planning, marketing and international operations where he was the head of Chrysler’s European sales, media relations and marketing.
Major automakers report February sales
Here is a list of February U.S. sales for most major auto manufacturers:
▲ 13% Industry total, 794,429 units from 701,570 units one year ago.
▲ 43% Ford, 137,644 units vs. 96,044 units
▲ 33% Volkswagen, 24,332 units vs. 18,313 units
▲ 29% Nissan, 70,189 units vs. 54,249 units
▲ 14% BMW, 17,971 units vs. 15,805 units
▲ 13% Honda, 80,671 units vs. 71,575units
▲ 12% GM, 141,854 units vs. 126,584 units
▲ 11% Hyundai, 34,004 units vs. 30,621 units
▲ 9% Kia, 24,052 units vs. 22,073 units
▲ 1% Mercedes, 15,827 units vs. 15,614 units
▲ 0% Chrysler, 84,449 units vs. 84,050 units
▼ 9% Toyota, 100,027 units vs. 109,583 units
The seasonally adjusted annual selling rate (SAAR) for the U.S. auto industry in February was 10.6 million units compared with January’s 11.0 million unit selling rate and last February’s rate of 9.3 million units.
18 days left in Super Beard contest
Who says you shouldn’t grow a beard?
Grow one because you want to, grow one because you can! Be the master of your own face – the Dodge Car Brand dares you to take a stand. The “Super Beard” contest started on Sunday, Feb. 7, on the Dodge Car Brand Facebook page. The contest runs through March 21.
“Super Beard is a unique and fun way to connect with potential and existing Dodge Car Brand customers through social media outlets like Facebook,” Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer – Dodge Car Brand, said. “The contest aligns perfectly with the fun loving attitude and spirit of the Dodge consumer, and gives us an excellent opportunity to showcase the brand’s new perspective and desire to have a more direct conversation with its most passionate customers.”
Participants in the Super Beard contest are encouraged to grow the biggest super beard they can within a six-week time period. Contestants may join the contest at any time by uploading a “clean shaven” photo. Each contestant is required to upload a minimum of two photos in order to be eligible to win. Contestants are able to upload up to six photos to share with their friends to encourage voting.
Prizes
Voters’ Choice Round: Grand Prize (1), public voting determines the Grand Prize winner whose photographs received the most votes.
Prize: Weekend for two to a 2010 Dodge Motorsports race of choice
Judges’ Choice Round: Honorable Mention Prizes (2), a panel of judges consisting of Dodge Car Brand employees will review and select two honorable mention prize winners whose photographs best portray the contestant’s growth of a beard. Judging is based on overall quality, appearance, creativity, quality of facial hair, originality, skill and content.
Prize: SRT Track Experience Gift Certificates
Weekly Sweepstakes Prizes: Voters are automatically eligible to win a weekly prize (6) simply by casting their vote. Voters may receive a maximum of one weekly sweepstakes entry each calendar day by voting on three individual photographs. Prize: Dodge Prize Pack
The Super Beard contest pays tribute to the all-new Dodge Charger R/T commercial “Man’s Last Stand.” Whether he’s walking the dog at 6:30 a.m., eating more fruit, putting the toilet seat down or watching vampire TV shows with his significant other, “Man’s Last Stand” offers an inside look at the lengths men will go to in order to drive the car they want. The all-new 60-second spot, featuring the 2010 Dodge Charger R/T, aired during the second quarter of the Super Bowl Feb. 7.
Through the new commercial, the Dodge Car Brand begins to re-establish its commitment to consumers who love driving expressively designed vehicles that serve as a form of self expression and are exhilarating to drive, while informing all viewers that the Dodge brand has a renewed energy and focus.
The Super Bowl ad can be seen at www.Dodge.com. It was produced and created by the Dodge Car Brand’s agency of record, Wieden+Kennedy from Portland, Ore.
Voters and contestants, and employees with Internet access, can follow the Super Beard contest at:
www.Facebook.com/Dodge.com
www.Dodge.com
Chrysler Brand shares the stage with Lancia in Geneva
The Chrysler Brand is back at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show with the Chrysler 300C design study, Chrysler 300C eco style, PT Cruiser Couture Edition, Chrysler Sebring Cabrio and versatile Chrysler minivan image vehicle—prestigious cars that showcase the best of American style—along with Lancia vehicles (for Lancia brand information visit www.lanciapress.com).
For the first time the two brands are displayed in one exhibition area designed to move away from more traditional motor show stand, favoring a symbolic representation of the future convergence of both brands. The union of Chrysler and Lancia go together perfectly, like two puzzle pieces that are now coupled to create an all-new entity with limitless possibilities, common vision and DNA. Illustrating the best of what automotive history has produced on both sides of the ocean are the Chrysler and Lancia brands’ product portfolio, encompassed by an imposing graphic design backdrop of enormous jigsaw puzzle pieces with the latest in color and fashion.
This imposing backdrop symbolizes the fusion of Chrysler and Lancia under a banner of shared values: from elegance to technological innovation, from history to the will to shine in the future. The exhibit floors continues the puzzle theme, representing the union of the two brands with two puzzle piece platforms highlighting two Chrysler 300Cs on one piece and two Lancia Deltas on the other. In this setting the visitor becomes an essential part of the composition. In fact, the images of the public are transformed into puzzle pieces to complete the puzzle of the booth, thanks to an array of mirrors and video cameras.
At the 2010 Geneva motor show, the Chrysler brand takes the 300C sedan’s groundbreaking styling to new heights with the Chrysler 300C design study. Combining the characteristics of the Chrysler brand and the Lancia brand, this unique Chrysler 300C features avant-garde interior styling through world-class materials and hand-crafted details.
The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, intuitive innovation and technology since the first Chrysler brand vehicles were sold in 1925.
In 2009, the Chrysler brand comprised 20.4 percent of Chrysler Group LLC sales outside North America. The Chrysler Grand Voyager was the highest sales volume vehicle for the Chrysler brand outside North America last year.
Chrysler 300C design study
Designed to meet the sophisticated style of an individual with refined taste, the Chrysler 300C design study delivers elegance and craftsmanship.
Taking a page from the Lancia brand’s historic collaboration with high-end Italian furniture designer Poltrona Frau, the all-new Chrysler 300C design study features a highly-detailed two-tone interior color scheme contrasting between the smoothness of Ivory White and the austerity of Matte Black.
The Chrysler 300C design study’s interior cabin is designed like a refined living room from its Ivory White Alcantara headliner to its soft cashmere Loro Piana floor mats. Surrounding this inviting space are the instrument and upper door panels wrapped in Matte Black leather to highlight the dark chromed accents. Adding even more contrast and detail are lower door panels wrapped in soft Ivory White leather that highlights distinctive Cartier-inspired Lake Red double-seamed stitching accents.
Interior elements of the Chrysler 300C design study include tabs and door handles wrapped with individually cut and colored strips of naturally tanned leather. The result is a three-dimensional sculpted geometrical pattern inspired by the contrast between Ivory White and Lake Red tones. In addition, the instrument panel’s center bezel and console feature the Ivory White and Lake Red geometrical patterned design.
At the center of the Chrysler 300C design study’s contrasting interior theme, softly preserved Ivory White leather seats are accented with Lake Red double-seamed stitching on the seat backs and cushions. Matte Black stitching at the seats’ perimeter provides detail.
The Chrysler 300C design study hosts its unique interior within a Deep Black three-coat exterior paint. This high-gloss paint process delivers a see-through glass effect inspired by Montblanc fountain pens. Finishing off the unique exterior are dark-chromed fascia and body-side accents and 20-inch dark-chromed aluminum wheels.
Chrysler 300C eco style
Based off of the Chrysler 300C, the most-awarded vehicle in the industry, each 300C eco style edition vehicle is individually accessorized with eco-friendly materials such as cork, bamboo, recycled jute carpeting and suede seat inserts and feature refurbished wheels while providing high-end luxury and elegant design. The vehicles feature a refined interior, premium technology and offer fuel-efficient performance and excitement.
At the 2010 Geneva motor show, the Chrysler 300C eco style vehicle will be on display and features a Vanilla exterior color with black roof, unique pewter finished exterior accents and large 20-inch wheels. On the inside, cactus-accented seat-inserts and door trim accents provide contrast, while bamboo appliqués placed on the door trim, center console and steering wheel deliver added texture and detail.
Recycled materials are used within the interior of the vehicle. Recycled ultra-suede seat inserts are used for the front and rear-passenger seats and are soft to the touch and durable. Hydrographic patterns are used to place organic themes on the center console and door trim of the interior compartment. Water-based paints are used on the exterior of the vehicle.
Under the hood is the 5.7-liter HEMI® engine with the Multi-displacement System (MDS). MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is needed. MDS optimizes fuel economy without sacrificing vehicle performance.
Chrysler PT Cruiser Couture Edition
In commemorating a decade of the Chrysler PT “Personal Transportation” Cruiser’s timeless design, the new PT Cruiser Couture Edition exemplifies the romance of American automotive heritage, styling and versatility that made PT Cruiser an instant hit.
Starting with the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Classic, the Couture Edition features new levels of craftsmanship and color. With its fenders and high belt-line painted in Bright Silver Metallic, and upper body and roofline that recalls 1930s and 1940s era hot-rod styling in Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl with accent red pinstripe, the Chrysler PT Cruiser Couture Edition delivers a bold look. To complete the exterior appearance, chromed body-side moldings, door handles, 16-inch polished aluminum wheels and grille highlight this limited edition PT’s level of detail and style.
The new Chrysler PT Cruiser Couture Edition continues to lead the small-car segment with its combination of style, craftsmanship and flexibility. Chromed detail rings highlight the gloss black instrument panel’s three gauges, rotating air vents and Chrysler signature analog clock. The Pastel Slate Gray interior is highlighted by Satin Silver instrument panel and console accents, and all-new Radar Red leather seats deliver a contrasting look.
Chrysler continues to keep its icon fresh and exciting. The new Chrysler PT Cruiser Couture Edition marked the 16th variation since PT Cruiser’s introduction, following five Dream Cruiser Series vehicles, PT Turbo, Flames, Woodie, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible, the refreshed 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series, PT Cruiser Classic, PT Street Cruiser Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway and Sunset Boulevard editions.
Chrysler Minivan Image Vehicle
With more than 26 years of minivan development, 65 segment-firsts, 40 available safety features and the most family-friendly features, Chrysler minivans remain the best vehicle to transport people and things.
At the 2010 Geneva motor show, a uniquely prepared Chrysler minivan image vehicle features the minivan-first Swivel ’n Go® seating system with second-row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row, while a removable chess table is installed between the two rows and can be stored in the minivan’s in-floor storage bins. Completing the “family room on wheels” is the Chrysler-first dual 9-inch rear DVD entertainment system with swiveling third-row monitor.
Special exterior appointments include Pearl White tri-coat exterior paint and unique 19-inch chromed-aluminum wheels. Inside, a distinctive two-tone interior environment includes Dark Slate Gray instrument panel and trim that provides contrast against the Pearl White leather seats with black piping and Whitewood trim accents.
Chrysler Sebring Cabrio
The Chrysler Sebring Cabrio delivers what no other cabrio (convertible) on the road can: Chrysler’s sleek and elegant design, fun-to-drive performance, fuel efficiency, a spacious interior that comfortably seats four adults and enough trunk room to hold two golf bags, even when the top is folded down.
With a new smooth-appearance hood and new wheel designs, Chrysler Sebring Cabrio gets an updated appearance. Retractable top options include a body-color painted steel retractable hard top and a power cloth top featuring an automatic tonneau cover. Top up or down, Sebring Cabrio provides the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a cabrio at an affordable price.
As many as four occupants may experience Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s comfortable, roomy interior. Rear-seat passengers have plenty of head and leg room, while best-in-class (94 gallons with the top up and 51 gallons with the top down) trunk space gives Sebring Cabrio year-round functionality and versatility.
The Chrysler Sebring Cabrio features two fuel-efficient engine options: a powerful 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine paired with six-speed manual transmission, and a responsive 2.7-liter 24-valve V-6 engine with six-speed Auto Stick.
Chrysler Sebring Cabrio has a rigid body structure that provides a quiet, comfortable ride and reduces cowl shake, even when the top is down. Front-wheel-drive architecture and three-box vehicle design contribute to a body that is 2.5-times stiffer in twist and 1.5-times stiffer in bending than the previous-generation Sebring Cabrio. These refinements make the latest Sebring Cabrio body structure stiffer than more expensive cabrios on the market.
February U.S. sales climb slightly
Chrysler Group LLC today reported a slight sales increase compared with February 2009.
The company reported total U.S. sales for February of 84,449 units, a slight increase versus the same period last year (84,050 units) and an increase of 48 percent compared with January 2010 (57,143 units). The Chrysler Group finished the month with 197,080 units in inventory, a 44 percent decline compared with February 2009 (350,966 units). Overall industry figures for February are projected to come in at an estimated 10.6 million SAAR.
“Chrysler Group sales were up slightly this month, in line with the industry,” Fred Diaz, President and CEO–Ram Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization, said. “Compared with January, Chrysler Group’s February sales grew more than the industry average, reinforcing the company trend of steady, month-over-month growth.”
February U.S. sales highlights
• Car sales increased 38 percent compared with the previous year
• Chrysler Sebring (sedan and convertible), Chrysler 300, Chrysler Town & Country, Jeep® Compass, Jeep Patriot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Grand Caravan and Dodge Charger all posted year-over-year sales increases
• Chrysler brand sales were up 9 percent compared with February 2009
• Jeep brand sales increased 6 percent versus the previous year
• Dodge brand sales improved 8 percent sales compared with last year
• All brands posted sales increases compared with January
• Ram pickup sales were up 3 percent compared with the previous month
• Chrysler Sebring Sedan, Chrysler 300, Chrysler Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Grand Caravan and the all-new 2010 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty posted month-over-month sales increases
“The 2010 Dodge Caliber Mainstreet and Jeep Wrangler Islander vehicles are arriving at dealer showrooms now,” Diaz said. “The 2010 model year Nitro Heat, Journey Crew and Dodge Grand Caravan Hero packages are open for ordering and will soon arrive at your local Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram dealer.”
Incentives
The Chrysler Group today announced March is “Truck Month.” Beginning today, consumers who purchase a 2010 model year Ram 1500 can receive a “no charge” HEMI® engine or $500 bonus cash towards the purchase of a Ram 1500 with a 3.7-liter or 4.7-liter engine.
March also kicks off 0 percent “plus” on most 2010 model year vehicles.
Ram Truck Brand
• Consumers who purchase a 2010 model year Ram 1500 can receive a “no charge” HEMI engine or $500 bonus cash towards the purchase of a Ram 1500 with a 3.7-liter or 4.7-liter engine
• Consumers who purchase the all-new 2010 Ram Heavy Duty can choose attractive financing rates through GMAC Financial Services of 1.9 percent financings for up to 60 months or $1,000 consumer cash
• Consumers purchasing a 2010 Dodge Dakota can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 1.9 percent financing for 72 months plus $1,000 bonus cash from GMAC, or consumer cash of up to $2,000
Chrysler Brand
• 0 percent financing for 36 months plus $1,000 consumer cash is available on all 2010 model year vehicles
In addition:
• Consumers purchasing a Chrysler 300 can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 1.9 percent financing for 72 months plus $1,000 consumer cash, or consumer cash of up to $2,000 or “no charge” all-wheel drive
• Qualified customers purchasing a 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser can choose 0 percent financing for 36 months plus $1,000 bonus cash or consumer cash of up to $2,000
• Consumers purchasing a Chrysler Sebring can choose 0 percent financing for up to 48 months, or 1.9 percent financing for 60 months plus $1,000 consumer cash or consumer cash of up to $2,000
• Qualified customers purchasing a 2010 Chrysler Town & Country are eligible for 0 percent financing for up to 60 months, or consumer cash of up to $1,500
• In addition, the “Minivan Pledge” continues through March 31 whereby consumers trading in a competitive vehicle for the purchase of a new 2010 model year Chrysler Town & Country can return the vehicle, no questions asked, within 60 days if they aren’t happy with the vehicle
Jeep Brand
• Jeep Adrenaline Rush continues through March 31
• Consumers who purchase a 2010 model year Jeep Liberty, Grand Cherokee or Commander can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months, or 1.9 percent financing for 72 months plus bonus cash of up to $1,000 from GMAC or consumer cash of up $4,000
• Consumers purchasing a 2010 Jeep Compass or Patriot can choose 0 percent financing for 36 months plus $1,000 consumer cash or consumer cash of $1,500. Attractive financing rates are available for longer terms
• Consumers purchasing a 2010 Jeep Wrangler can choose 0 percent financing for 36 months or consumer cash of $750. Attractive financing rates are available for longer terms
Dodge Car Brand
• 0 percent financing for 36 months plus $1,000 consumer cash is available on most 2010 model year vehicles
• Consumers purchasing a 2010 Charger can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 1.9 percent financing for 72 months plus $1,000 consumer cash, or consumer cash of up to $2,000, or “no charge” all-wheel drive in lieu of consumer cash or 0 percent financing
• Qualified customers purchasing a 2010 Dodge Challenger are eligible for 1.9 percent financing for up to 60 months
• Consumers purchasing a 2010 Dodge Journey, Nitro or Grand Caravan can choose 0 percent financing for 36 months plus up to $1,000 consumer cash or consumer cash of up to $2,000. Attractive financing rates are available for longer terms
• In addition, the “Minivan Pledge” continues through March 31 whereby consumers trading in a competitive vehicle for the purchase of a new 2010 model year Dodge Grand Caravan can return the vehicle, no questions asked, within 60 days if they aren’t happy with the vehicle
• Qualified customers purchasing a 2010 Dodge Avenger can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months, or $2,000 consumer cash or 0 percent financing for 36 months plus $1,000 consumer cash
Leasing
The Chrysler Group is offering attractive lease rates on several 2010 model year vehicles. The incentives announced today are valid through March 31, 2010.