Monday, January 30, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Jeep Rolls Out New Concept and Name My Ride Contest
Are you one of those vehicle enthusiasts who names their car and says “Good Morning” to it when you get in each morning? Do you ever catch yourself thinking, I wish I had a vehicle named _____? Ever wonder who has the awesome job of coming up with such distinct names for all of our vehicles?
Well, now you have the chance to take on that awesome job and name one of our vehicle packages . Jeep is rolling out a brand new concept of the Jeep Grand Cherokee this morning at the Houston Auto Show and along with the reveal comes the Jeep “Name My Ride” contest. This new, production-intent concept vehicle has innovative, stealthy details, giving it a unique and aggressive look.
The Jeep brand brings this vehicle to the Houston Auto to gauge consumer reactions and see if the positive vibes are buzzing about. If you're digging the car, you can log onto Jeep.com/namemyride and enter your ideas for what the distinctive new vehicle should be named – the Jeep Grand Cherokee ___________ (fill in the blank).
The Jeep brand will narrow the names down to the top three and let voters choose their favorite. The winning name will be announced in May and the person who entered it will have a chance to win an all-new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
“We plan to garner feedback from consumers at the Houston Auto Show, and via our online Jeep 'Name My Ride' contest,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO of Jeep Brand. “If the level of excitement is what we anticipate, this new Grand Cherokee will be in Jeep showrooms this spring.”
Before you know it, this new Jeep Grand Cherokee could be sitting in your local dealer showroom with the name YOU chose for it! We won't give you any ideas for new names, but we will remind you of some names currently used by the Jeep brand as a jumping off point: Overland, Summit, Arctic, Jet, Rubicon and Sahara.
Courtesy of blog.chryslerllc.com
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Chrysler Group LLC Opens State-of-the-Art World Class Manufacturing Academy in Warren, Mich.
During a ceremony attended by Chrysler Group’s Senior Vice President of Manufacturing Scott Garberding, Vice President of the UAW Chrysler Department General Holiefield, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and Warren Mayor Jim Fouts, the ribbon was cut to officially open the new training center, located on Nine Mile Rd., in Warren, Mich. Occupying about 25,000-square-feet of the UAW-Chrysler Technology Training Center, the Academy’s mission is to transfer WCM “know-how” to more than 1,200 participants each year and cultivate an enriched culture of continuous improvement and learning. Another 1,300 will visit the Academy for tours and meetings.
“When Chrysler was developing its survival plan in partnership with Fiat in 2009, one of the key elements of turning the Company around was the implementation of World Class Manufacturing,” said Garberding. “Now, after two and a half years, our Chrysler Group manufacturing facilities are some of the most productive and efficient in the industry, and several are positioned to achieve Bronze status, a significant milestone on the WCM journey, within the next six months.
“The results that have been achieved in our plants could not have been realized without the support of our UAW partners,” said Garberding. “From the leadership to the shop floor, everyone has become an advocate of WCM and understands that it is critical to maintaining Chrysler Group’s competitiveness into the future. It’s this knowledge and expertise that we want to make available to everyone within the organization through this new academy.”
WCM is a methodology that Fiat began developing, implementing and refining in 2005 with the purpose of reducing waste, increasing productivity and restoring dignity to the employees. As a result of the collaboration with Fiat and the sharing of knowledge, WCM has become the driving force behind the improvements in all of Chrysler Group’s manufacturing plants.
“WCM has engaged and empowered our UAW-represented workforce by challenging them to become more involved in driving change within our plants,” said Holiefield. “Our employees understand that WCM is the foundation of Chrysler Group’s continued success and the WCM Academy provides the opportunity for continued growth and development. By embracing WCM, we can secure manufacturing jobs and additional investment in our plants.”
The WCM Academy
With 10 pillars representing the 10 technical pillars of WCM adorning the outside of the building, the WCM Academy is a place where employees throughout Chrysler Group’s manufacturing operations can come to learn the WCM methodology and using the WCM tools, collaborate to find the best solutions to issues within their facilities.
“The sharing of ‘know-how’ and best practices is the key to success in World Class Manufacturing,” said Massimo Risi, Head of World Class Manufacturing, Chrysler Group LLC. “The new WCM Academy will allow us to accelerate the pace of change within our facilities by providing a central location where information can be exchanged and solutions found in a hands-on environment.”
Among the many unique aspects of the Academy are the curriculum and the trainers. Course material is created internally with input from the plants and based on specific needs to increase levels of competence in a defined area. Hands-on games and activities create competition and help take the mystery out of WCM. To deliver the course material, trainers were selected from within the Company who have hands-on, practical experience achieving WCM results in their facility.
“Unlike the classic concept of training, training for WCM has to be focused on addressing specific needs within the manufacturing facilities,” said Risi. “No longer will a ‘cookie cutter’ approach drive continuous improvement.”
The Rotunda
From the first step inside, someone coming to the WCM Academy knows that they are in for something special. The Lobby greets guests and makes them feel welcome. The Lobby leads into the Rotunda, an area that personalizes the WCM experience by featuring videos of 12 employees – shown on a giant touch screen so visitors can select which personal stories they want to view – who have adopted WCM and been witness to the changes it has brought to their facilities.
Once through the Rotunda, participants enter the “Labby,” which serves a dual purpose as a lobby and additional learning laboratory. The Labby provides a “window to manufacturing” through touch screens that explain the logic behind the 10 different WCM pillars, a dozen different videos that highlight the Company and iPads that encourage self-training.
The Lab
Through double glass doors, participants enter the WCM laboratory. The training lab is broken down by the 10 technical pillars that make up WCM. Each pillar has a classroom color coded to coordinate with a dedicated area of the lab where hands-on training can take place. Unlike past training programs, only 30 percent of the learning will be done in the classrooms. The other 70 percent of a participant’s time will be spent participating in hands-on activities in the laboratory.
One of the first stations in the lab is the safety area. Employing the same 3D technology used by the U.S. Department of Defense to train soldiers deployed to Afghanistan, participants don 3D goggles to become fully immersed in a plant setting full of unsafe acts and conditions. Through several videos highlighting various situations, participants become aware of unsafe conditions, identify potential risks and work through possible solutions within the three dimensional manufacturing environment. While only currently used in the safety area, the 3D technology could be expanded to other pillars.
The Human Motion Capture Arena uses the same technology used to create video games. A participant dresses in a suit with sensors that capture the individual’s movements, from the largest such as walking to the slightest such as the movement of a finger. By seeing how an operator would move to perform a given job function, improvements can be made to reduce the number of movements or make the movements more complementary to a person’s natural movements, thereby reducing waste. By employing this technology, the walking distance during a single operation was reduced from 23,000 cm to just 7,000 cm.
Even a popular children’s toy is used to teach WCM methodology. A slot car track helps demonstrate the seven steps of micro-stoppages, small equipment breakdowns that can cause major losses. The cars on the track and the track itself are altered to “breakdown” while racing. A high speed camera captures the movements, helping participants see that there might be more to the breakdown than what is obvious to the naked eye. In this way, operators are trained to apply a disciplined process to find the root cause of a problem.
Door panel lines have traditionally been an area where there can be lots of waste – waste in how parts are delivered to the line, waste in how operators need to move to retrieve the parts. To help participants visualize where and how improvements can be made, the Academy has incorporated a simulated door line to teach the idea of kitting or mizusumashi. In the exercise, all of the parts are initially located line side, then participants are taught how to create kits that will reduce inventory and material handling while mistake proofing the assembly process for the operator.
A key to success in WCM is workplace organization. Using a “destroy and build” philosophy, participants in the Brownfield Simulation area initially run a line the “wrong” way, being timed along the way. Participants then go back and redesign the line to run the WCM way by using available tools and applying their analysis.
Because of the flexibility of the lab, the training modules and course materials can be modified and adapted as needed to meet the requirements of the plants.
Verification
Once classroom and lab sessions have been completed at the Academy, which typically last two days, participants return to their home plant with a trainer for some practical sessions. In this way, students are able to apply what they learned to a project assignment at the plant.
At a specified later date, the students return to the Academy for validation from the core team and to share best practices, adding to the learning process. This validation process also provides a measure for how well the Academy is performing and allows for improvements in its operation.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Nine Chrysler Group LLC Models Net 2012 Consumer Guide Automotive Awards
Six Chrysler Group vehicles received Consumer Guide’s prestigious “Best Buys” for the 2012 model year, while three models grabbed “Recommended Picks” in the 2012 list.
Chrysler Group vehicles that received Consumer Guide “Best Buys” for the 2012 model year are:
Chrysler: 300, Town & Country
Dodge: Charger, Grand Caravan, and Journey
Ram: 1500
Models that received “Recommended Picks” by Consumer Guide for the 2012 model year are:
Jeep®: Grand Cherokee
Dodge: Durango
FIAT: 500
“We are honored and thrilled to have nine vehicles named as ‘Best Buys’ or ‘Recommended Picks’ by Consumer Guide Automotive,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “Chrysler Group launched an unprecedented 16 all-new or substantially-refreshed vehicles in 2010 and 2011, models that continue to resonate with both consumers and objective, third parties like Consumer Guide.”
Consumer Guide’s annual list, designed to make car buying easier for consumers, represents the best overall values in 18 vehicle categories. This year’s list showcases 106 vehicles from the hundreds of cars, SUVs, minivans, and trucks tested.
A “Best Buy” rating signifies that a vehicle is ranked at the top of its class and is strongly approved by the editors. “Best Buy” vehicles represent the finest balance of attributes and price within their classes, and they are the best choices for most consumers. Consumer Guide’s “Recommended Picks” feature vehicles that, though not ranked at the very top of their category, are still worth strong consideration by consumers for their unique combination of attributes and value.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
New Year Brings Host of New Awards and Accolades to Jeep Brand and its Hot-selling Wrangler and Grand Cherokee vehicles
January 12, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Just two weeks into 2012 and the Jeep brand and its most recognized vehicles – the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler – have already captured 10 new awards and accolades.
The recognition comes on the heels of Jeep’s U.S. sales rising 44 percent in 2011 – with each Jeep model up more than 30 percent – while industry sales rose 11 percent.
“2011 marked the first full year of sales for the all-new new Jeep Grand Cherokee and refreshed Liberty and Patriot models, as well as the introduction of a new Compass and new, more fuel-efficient Jeep Wrangler,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Consumers are clearly recognizing our new, improved Jeep lineup – and an array of awards both last year and already this year make it clear that industry opinion leaders are, too.
“The awards we have received from these media and industry influencers are a huge testament to the Jeep brand and its vehicles, and I am grateful for each and every one of them,” Manley added. “And without question, the most important recognition we receive occurs when our customers vote with their checkbook. For Jeep to be recognized as the brand with the largest increase in customer loyalty is fantastic. My thanks go out to all of our Jeep customers for their business.”
Already in 2012, Jeep has been recognized with the following:
• Autobytel 2012 SUV of the Year: Jeep® Wrangler
• Overland Journal 2011 SUV of the Year – North America: Jeep Wrangler
• U.S. News & World Report’s Best Cars for the Money – Off-Road SUV: Jeep Wrangler
• Cars.com’s Play Car of the Year (Off-Roaders and Sun Lovers categories): Jeep Wrangler
• The Fast Lane Car’s (TFLCar.com) Top-10 2012 Most Fun to Drive Cars: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
• 2012 Vehix New Car Buying Guide, Convertible Under $40,000 Recommended: Jeep Wrangler
• 2012 Vehix New Car Buying Guide, SUV Under $30,000 Recommended: Jeep Wrangler
• 2012 Vehix New Car Buying Guide, SUV Under $30,000 Recommended: Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Consumer Guide Recommended Buy : Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Polk Automotive Loyalty Award – Most Improved Loyalty to Make: Jeep Brand
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – becomes even more capable both on- and off-road for 2012, courtesy of an all-new, more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine, and a new five-speed automatic transmission – both of which it shares with the award-winning Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Chrysler Group’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine – winner of the prestigious Ward’s 10 Best Engines award – delivers 285 horsepower (209 kW) and 260 (353 N•m) lb.-ft. of torque, while delivering up to 21 miles per gallon highway in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. The improvement, when compared to the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine, is 40 percent in horsepower and 10 percent in torque.
Jeep continues to refine the successful Wrangler formula by combining legendary, benchmark capability with an interior that delivers rich styling with significantly upgraded touch surfaces, occupant comfort and versatility, and a premium appearance courtesy of a body color hard top for the popular Sahara and Rubicon models.
Jeep Wrangler recently received two significant awards from the industry’s leading off-road enthusiast publication: Four Wheeler of the Year from Four Wheeler magazine, and 4x4 of the Year from Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road magazine.
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The all-new-for-2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee captured more than 30 awards, making it the most-awarded SUV ever. 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 towing capability. It offers improved fuel economy (up to 23 miles per gallon), a driving range of more than 550 miles, superb on-road ride and handling, a world-class interior cabin, more than 45 safety and security features, and a variety of advanced technology features.
Contributing to Grand Cherokee’s class-leading capability is the combination of Jeep’s Quadra-Lift™ air suspension system and the Jeep Selec-Terrain™ traction control system that lets customers choose the 4x4 setting for the optimum driving experience on all terrains.
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with three 4x4 systems, and with either V-6 or V-8 powertrains.
Courtesy of: media.chrysler.com
Monday, January 16, 2012
Take a test drive in a New 2011 Chrysler 200
Friday, January 13, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
New Dodge Viper to debut in N.Y.
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Just think of the storied Chrysler names in the annals of high performance vehicles: Hemi, Mopar, Challenger, Viper, Charger, Daytona, Road Runner and SRT. Wait, SRT? What’s that?
Only an entire brand division within Chrysler now, headed by President and CEO Ralph Gilles, who is also Chrysler’s senior vice president of design. The letters stand for “Street and Racing Technology.”
The brand also has the Viper. It used to be called the Dodge Viper, but now it’s called the SRT Viper SRT10. The original V10-powered muscle sports car went out of production in 2010 because of the confluence of Chrysler’s bankruptcy and government safety regulations that meant Dodge needed to update the Viper to be able to keep selling it.
During its 18-year run the vehicle’s design was largely unchanged. Now that the cash is flowing again at Chrysler, a revamped Viper will arrive at the New York auto show in April, and Gilles’ only remaining challenge is figuring out how to allocate the few thousand cars the company will be able to build this year.
To start with, if you don’t already have a Viper, you can forget buying one. And you’ll need to be a loyal member of the Viper owner’s club. That’s just to be considered as a potential buyer.
Can’t afford a Viper? Well, SRT sells hot-rod versions of the Chrysler 300, the Dodge Challenger, the Dodge Charger and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Upscale sedans, electric vehicles and old-school muscle cars make their debuts at the 2012 North American International Auto show
Maybe you like these products, but reality means you are in a minivan for the foreseeable future. Well, you can still fantasize while snapping up trinkets and souvenirs from the gift shop.
You might not expect there to be a lot of demand for jackets, hats, key rings, wristwatches and the like adorned with the magical letters “SRT.” You would be wrong. Gilles ordered up a run of such goodies and promptly sold out of hoodie sweat shirts, tee shirts and the like.
“We had a huge request for merchandise and immediately sold out of stock,” he said.
To cultivate this fandom, SRT is setting up a website and a phone line (855-SRT-TEAM) to take orders for SRT-branded goods. These items are a validation of enthusiasts’ support for SRT’s products, Gilles explained. Owners and club members want acknowledgement more than anything, he said. Answering technical questions, sending clubs a banner, and even personally responding to e-mails, are ways Gilles ensures that SRT customers understand that the company appreciates their patronage and support.
“You get creative,” he said.
Giving customers access to SRT’s engineers who can answer their technical questions, is one example, he said. “It doesn’t necessarily need to be big, expensive events.” Just remember to wear your “SRT” trucker cap.
Courtesy of: msnbc.com
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Dodge Hits the Bull’s Eye with an All-new Compact Car – The Dodge Dart
January 9, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The 2013 Dodge Dart redefines performance with Alfa Romeo DNA, fuel-efficient powertrains and Dodge’s passion for performance. The all-new Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s fuel-efficient, beautifully designed and crafted, agile and fun-to-drive.
Loaded with innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact car segment by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.
“The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking car that will surprise and delight customers who want a no-compromise, fun-to-drive car that’s a great value,” said Reid Bigland, President and Chief Executive Officer — Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “With 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim options, three powerful, fuel-efficient engines, three transmission choices, unsurpassed safety features and world-class aerodynamics, the new Dodge Dart sets a new standard for the compact car class.”
The 2013 Dodge Dart will be available in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T. It will be built in the United States at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. Production of the 2013 Dodge Dart will begin in the second quarter of 2012.
Performance-inspired design
Exterior
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart boasts a timeless, stylish and distinctive exterior design. The car sports an athletic, sculpted, fluid and aesthetically agile appearance. The exterior design of the Dart conveys a level of visual drama and timeless surfaces that add excitement to the competitive compact sedan segment in the United States.
“The Dodge Dart was a dream to design,” said Joe Dehner, Head of Dodge Design — Chrysler Group LLC. “The Alfa Romeo-based architecture allowed us to design an exterior with great proportions that say ‘fun-to-drive’ when you look at it. Add in the Charger-inspired ‘racetrack’ taillamps, a new, sleek crosshair grille and piano black accents, and it all adds up to a performance-inspired design with just the right amount of attitude.”
The Fiat Group-based Compact U.S. Wide (CUS-wide) architecture’s low, wide and long dimensions ensured a stable “body-in, wheels-out” stance and coupe-like silhouette. The CUS-wide platform allowed for accentuating the fender formations and pushing the wheels as far out to the corners as possible, creating a very stable look, which gave Dodge designers incredible opportunities for some very dramatic sculpturing. Designers visually stretched the skin of the car over the vehicle framework as if stretching nylon over a surface.
“When designing the all-new Dodge Dart, we were inspired by classic, beautifully designed vehicles throughout time,” Dehner added. “Each car was beautiful, based on its surface work and presence alone; they didn’t need unnecessary cladding, jewelry or lines that confuse the eye.”
Once the basic design was in place, with dynamic lines and curves from every angle, designers inserted a little Dodge attitude into the mix. The face of the Dart was styled with the unmistakable Dodge split crosshair grille, but with a modern, sleek look that “floats” in the front fascia, giving the Dart a full-width mask that marks it as a Dodge.
The rear view of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart features an available Charger-inspired “racetrack” full-width taillamp with 152 indirect glow LEDs, and class-exclusive dual exhausts mounted in the rear fascia.
The front of the 2013 Dodge Dart has been designed for smooth airflow around, above and below the car without compromising styling or engine cooling requirements. In addition, a lower radiator close-out panel is positioned below the front fascia. This not only contributes to the Dart’s lower front-end appearance, but also reduces drag while still allowing for an 8-inch curb clearance.
Dodge designers made attention to detail and precision craftsmanship a priority, and it is noticeable from every angle. Standard laser-braised roof welds, high-quality metal Daylight Opening (DLO) moldings painted piano black and standard projector headlamps are just a few examples of well-crafted features typically found on much more expensive classes of vehicles.
Tasteful, detailed accents add to the design of the Dodge Dart. Style lines on the hood lead the eye to the floating crosshair grille, while chrome accent spears below the projector headlamps and inboard of available projector fog lamps highlight the attention to detail.
The result is a compact sedan that blends exceptional proportions, “aero-dramatic” surfacing, world-class craftsmanship, modern technology, an exceptionally quiet cabin and an upscale feel in a package that is undeniably a Dodge.
Interior
Dodge designers focused on creating a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology, exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes when designing the Dart’s interior, which is crafted with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with cool amenities and unexpected delights for both drivers and passengers.
The Dart’s “driver-centric” layout is designed to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats are packaged in an exceptionally spacious, pleasing interior. Packaged in the footprint of a compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart features the interior spaciousness of a mid-size sedan, and it boasts best-in-class hip and shoulder room.
“The all-new Dodge Dart is the showpiece for Dodge’s next generation philosophy of interior design,” said Klaus Busse, Head of Interior Design — Chrysler Group LLC. “The Dart interior takes the beautiful, precision-crafted interiors we rolled out last year and adds a little bit of fun with surprises of color, eye-catching ambient lighting and some really cool technology.”
Customization was key in the all-new Dodge Dart’s development, and with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, seven wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions, each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every buyer to fit their individual style. And the combinations are multiplied exponentially, as Mopar® also will offer more than 150 customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart.
The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive Uconnect® Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen Media Center – the largest touchscreen in its class.
Thoughtful storage options throughout fit today’s technology. The glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad; the center console features auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as center console side pockets, are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pens and paper.
Lighting in all the right places provides drivers and passengers a warm, comfortable cockpit. Available “racetrack” lighting surrounds the floating island bezel. Ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders is both useful and provides a warm atmosphere inside the vehicle.
Three sophisticated, fuel-efficient and powerful engines
The 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered by three fuel-efficient, powerful, state-of-the-art four-cylinder engines that add to Dart’s fun-to-drive quotient.
Drivers can select from a new 160 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 160 horsepower 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir® Intercooled Turbo engine and a new 184 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine. These three engines, combined with three transmission choices — six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or six-speed dual dry clutch (DDCT) transmission — redefine performance by providing the most diverse powertrain lineup in its class.
MultiAir technology delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions by allowing direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion. The result is up to a 15 percent increase in low engine rpm torque and a 7.5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency.
Engineered with passion
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was developed and engineered to exceed expectations for satisfaction, quality and reliability. From the world-class aerodynamic performance, to the agile, responsive driving experience, to items seemingly mundane like segment-leading heating and cooling performance that gives drivers and passengers the right temperatures in the right locations and a whisper-quiet interior, Dodge engineers kept the customer top of mind while developing every detail of the Dart.
“The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart has been engineered with a passion that demonstrates Dodge is back in the compact car segment in a big way,” said Matt Liddane, Vehicle Line Executive — Chrysler Group LLC. “The Dart is well-crafted, agile, powered by world-class, fuel-efficient powertrains, loaded with high-tech features that are both clever and useful, and it’s fun to drive.”
Alfa Romeo DNA
The Dodge brand’s re-entry into the U.S. compact sedan segment is based off of the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The Giulietta is renowned for satisfying the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding agility and safety, with exceptional driving dynamics. The Giulietta platform was lengthened and widened, creating a spacious compact sedan that meets the wants and needs of North American consumers.
The proven modular architecture allows multiple models to be built using the same basic underpinnings, resulting in improvements in quality and reliability, as well as reducing cost, development timing and tooling. The body structure of the Dart is comprised of 68 percent high-strength steel – hot stamped, high-strength and ultra-high-strength – resulting in an architecture that is lightweight, modern and solid.
The 2013 Dodge Dart features the proven, lightweight MacPherson strut front suspension, specifically tuned to minimize camber loss, resulting in more responsive steering and handling characteristics, improved ride quality and a reduction in road noise – all qualities drivers will appreciate.
A bi-link independent rear suspension enables European handling capability for those drivers who love to lean into corners and the smooth ride North American drivers covet.
World-class aerodynamics
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact sedan was designed and engineered for world-class aerodynamic performance. With more than 600 hours in the wind tunnel during the Dart’s development and using technology typically found on more expensive vehicles, Dodge engineers and designers looked at every aspect from the ground up to optimize the aerodynamic performance of the Dart.
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the first Dodge vehicle to use an active grille shutter system. The system automatically stops airflow through the lower intake at highway speeds when less engine cooling is required and aerodynamic drag is most significant. When closed, the shutter system enhances aerodynamic performance by redirecting airflow around the front of the vehicle and down the sides, rather than through it. The active grille shutter system will open or close automatically based upon engine coolant temperature and vehicle speed.
Underbody panels run stem to stern on the Dodge Dart, covering the majority of the lower vehicle from the front fascia to the rear fascia. Constructed of mold-in-color (MIC) black composite, the panels both enhance the aerodynamic performance and also block road noise.
Tire spats located forward of the front and rear tires were engineered to function as mini air dams and were optimized for shape and ground clearance, adding to the underbody efficiency in conjunction with the underbody panels.
In the design and engineering of the 2013 Dodge Dart, no aerodynamic detail was too small. Mirror design, the notch angle at the top of the header of the backlight to the trailing edge of the decklid and even the tail lamp applique shape and rear corners were all designed and engineered for optimal aero performance. An integrated decklid spoiler incorporates a trailing edge shape for cleaner airflow separation in the rear portion of the vehicle, which optimizes the air wake.
Class-leading Safety Features
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was engineered with 60 safety and security features to ensure driver’s and passengers’ peace of mind when traveling. The Dodge Dart starts with a strong foundation, a body that has a high-strength steel content of 68 percent, one of the highest in the industry, and then adds both active and passive safety features. Driver and passenger safety features include 10 standard airbags, which is unsurpassed in the segment and include: dual-stage adaptive venting front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted driver and passenger pelvic and thorax air bags, two rear-seat-mounted pelvic air bags, front driver and passenger knee air bags and all-row side-curtain air bags. The Dart also features a reactive head-restraint system; available Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection, three-point safety belts in all five seating positions; front driver and passenger dual seat belt pretensioners at the anchor and retractor positions and active load limiters. These features and more all work to protect passengers in the event of a crash. All three rear seat positions feature Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH).
Additional standard safety features on the 2013 Dodge Dart include:
Four-wheel, four-channel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution and traction control system on all models
- Brake Assist
- Brake-lock differential
- Ready Alert Braking
- Rainy Brake Support
- Hydraulic boost compensation
- Electronic stability control (four-channel active handling system ESC)
- Electronic Roll Mitigation
- Hill-start Assist
- Trailer-sway Control
- ParkView® rear backup camera
- ParkSense® rear park assist
State-of-the-art, Segment-exclusive Technology
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart sports segment-leading technology and not-seen-in-the-segment features, enchanting and delighting drivers and passengers alike. Examples include the segment-exclusive floating island bezel, 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Media Center, 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable instrument cluster display and upscale ambient lighting.
The 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with technology that improves driver and passenger comfort, as well as the performance of the car.
Customizable for the driver’s own style
The 2013 Dodge Dart will be available in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T. Each trim level has a style and value that will appeal to the diverse customer base interested in a compact sedan.
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart will feature 12 exterior colors: Redline Red Pearl Coat, Header Orange Pearl Coat, Blue Streak Pearl Coat, True Blue Pearl Coat, Winter Chill Pearl Coat, Laguna Blue Clear Coat, Maximum Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Citrus Peel Pearl Coat, Pitch Black Clear Coat and Bright White Clear Coat.
The Dart offers customers the choice of 14 interior color and trim combinations with seven interior color environments in cloth or leather fabric: Black denim, Black/Light Diesel Grey, Black/Light Frost Beige, Black/Ruby Red, Diesel Grey/Citrus Peel, Diesel Grey/Light Diesel Grey and Ceramic White/Light Diesel Grey.
In addition to the exterior color and interior trim options, the 2013 Dodge Dart offers seven wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions, as well as a slew of available exceptional or segment-leading features, including:
- World-class aerodynamics
- Class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust
- Class-exclusive “racetrack” LED taillamps
- Class-exclusive choice of either Hyper Black or polished wheels
- Class-exclusive 8.4-inch touchscreen Uconnect Touch Media Center with built-in radio, navigation, iPod control, climate controls, voice-activated blue tooth, SiriusXM Travel Link, weather updates and points of interest
- Class-exclusive 7-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster display that is easily customizable to the driver’s taste. Choices include: digital and analog gauges, navigation turn-by-turn display, eco-meter, fuel economy, audio, phone, compass and temperature read outs
- Class-exclusive floating island bezel
- Class-exclusive heated steering wheel
- Class-exclusive in-seat storage
- Available 506-watt sound system
- Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start
- High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps
- Dual-zone automatic temperature control with humidity sensor
- Unsurpassed 10 standard airbags
- ParkView® rear backup camera
- Blind-spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Path Detection
- Best-in-class hip room and shoulder room
- The most diverse lineup of gasoline powertrains in the segment – three new engines and three transmissions:
- New Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates an estimated 160 horsepower with the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission
- The technologically advanced Fiat 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo producing an estimated 160 horsepower and an impressive 184 lb.-ft. of torque mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DDCT transmission
- New powerful 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine that produces an estimated 184 horsepower with the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission
Dodge also is giving drivers the opportunity to customize their vehicles, as Mopar will offer more than 150 customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart.
2013 Dodge Dart
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart will compete in the compact sedan segment, one of the largest segments in the automotive industry. The Dart is well-crafted and built with the features, technology and style today’s compact car customers desire, positioning the Dart as a groundbreaking new car.
Dodge expects the Dart to appeal to a wide ranging group of new car buyers, from millenials to empty nesters. The millennial customer is a young professional most likely purchasing their first new car. They desire a car that is truly an expression of themselves, a car they can personalize and call their own. The millennial customer is connected with their friends, enjoys having a great time and is never without their phone. They grew up with technology and they indulge in the latest high-tech features.
The empty-nester customer is in the process of redefining their lifestyle, and they have more time for themselves than in their recent past. This customer typically knows what they like and purchases things and participates in activities that make them happy. The empty-nester appreciates what they have, leads an active lifestyle and is always up for a challenge. This customer knows a little bit about a lot of things and is interested in not only the way things work, but why. The empty-nester appreciates a good value, but doesn’t want to sacrifice the level of quality and amenities they have worked hard to attain.
The all-new Dodge Dart has been engineered with great levels of refinement, craftsmanship and engaging driving dynamics.
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Courtesy of media.chrysler.com
Monday, January 9, 2012
Thursday, January 5, 2012
2012 Charger R/T Max with up to $2,000 Cash Allowance
Be sure to stop by Performance Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to take advantage of our latest incentives, including up to $2,000 cash allowance on the 2012 Charger R/T Max. See dealership for details!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Chrysler to show off customized 200 and Dodge Charger
Chrysler plans to show what it can do with its Mopar parts and service brand when it comes to two cars being shown at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week. They are the 2012 Dodge Charger Redline and the Chrysler 200 Super S.
The 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is a Hemi-powered showcase of new Mopar performance kits that will arrive at dealerships later this year.
Mopar, which marks its 75th anniversary in 2012, has outfitted the Redline with a Hemi V-8 engine that delivers 590 horsepower, a performance exhaust system and carbon-fiber front splitter and other carbon-fiber components.
The lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block shaves more than 100 pounds from the traditional cast-iron crate version.
The Chrysler Super S includes hyper-black, 18-inch alloy wheels, a chin spoiler, a new trunk lid spoiler and a coil-over suspension that lowers the center of gravity.
Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO of Mopar, said many more Mopar versions of Chrysler cars and trucks will be released during 2012.
Chrysler has invested significantly in raising the profile of its Mopar brand since 2009, when Fiat acquired management control of Chrysler:
"Mopar is becoming bigger and more global," Gorlier said. "With the partnership with Fiat, we have even bigger reach."
On Dec. 21, Chrysler announced that it opened Mopar parts distribution centers in Shanghai and Dubai.
The 172,000-square-foot center in China will distribute more than 35,000 types of parts to more than 130 dealer locations in China and more than 20 third-party distributors and joint-venture partners throughout Asia.
The Dubai facility will distribute more than 193,000 parts to the Middle East and Africa.
Mopar was trademarked for a line of antifreeze in 1937 and has since grown into Chrysler's global parts and service division.
Courtesy of usatoday.com