Thursday, October 27, 2011

More Jeep® Vehicle Awards: Wrangler and Grand Cherokee Named Active Lifestyle Vehicle (ALV) Winners for 2012

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  • Automotive journalists and elite athletes judge a field of entrants in choosing annual Active Lifestyle Vehicle (ALV) winners
  • Awards come just days after Wrangler and Grand Cherokee win Texas Auto Writers Association awards
  • 2012 Jeep® Wrangler’s new 3.6-liter V-6 engine improves fuel efficiency up to 21 miles per gallon, while delivering 285 horsepower (40 percent improvement) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (10 percent improvement)
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee – the most-awarded SUV in history – offers unmatched blend of on-road refinement and class-leading capability

October 26, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - A group of automotive journalists and elite athletes from a variety of sports gathered in Phoenix last week to choose the Active Lifestyle Vehicle (ALV) winners for 2012. The new 2012 Jeep® Wrangler captured the “Best Value Off-Road” award, while the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee earned top honors in the “Luxury Off-Road” category.

“Both the Wrangler and the Grand Cherokee beat out vehicles which had dominated their competitive segments for multiple seasons,” said Nina Russin, automotive journalist and ALV program founder. “The new, more powerful engine and the reconfigured cargo area make the Wrangler a very easy vehicle to live with on a daily basis, as well as a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who like to get off the grid on the weekends.

“The tremendous improvements to the interior of the Grand Cherokee in terms of design, fit and finish, as well as the new engine were in my opinion both game changers. And of course, the Grand Cherokee remains capable of navigating the most extreme off-road trails," Russin added.

The ALV evaluations took into consideration overall vehicle design, engine power, fuel efficiency, and cargo capability. In the final tally, the athletes’ votes and those of the journalist jury panel each accounted for 50 percent.

“Jeep vehicles offer the perfect blend of fun, performance and capability – and are built for any adventure – so Grand Cherokee and Wrangler were right at home in this unique competition,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “We are delighted to have earned awards in both the Value and Luxury categories with the two pillars of the Jeep brand.”

2012 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.

Additionally, for refined shifting and greater performance, the Jeep Wrangler migrates from a four-speed to a new five-speed automatic transmission. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler also features the company’s first application of a manual transmission to the Pentastar V-6.

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.

2012 Jeep Wrangler interior highlights include a recently redesigned instrument panel and storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials. A lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas boast comfortable touch points, while a redesigned center stack is easier to reach and operate. Heated, power mirrors are available, and drivers and passengers enjoy enhanced visibility courtesy of large rear windows.

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.

Jeep Brand
Built on 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV brand with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The Jeep vehicle lineup includes Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all six Jeep models are sold outside North America – and all are available in right-hand drive versions and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in approximately 120 countries around the world.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Chrysler Group LLC Gears Up for 2011 SEMA Show

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Ram, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep®, SRT and Fiat Brand Vehicles Get Mopar® Treatment

  • Company’s 28,400-sq.-ft. exhibit to showcase more than 30 “Moparized” Chrysler Group vehicles and more than 500 Mopar accessories
  • Sketches of image vehicles released

October 25, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC will have a major presence at next week’s 2011 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

This year, the 28,400-square-foot exhibit will include more than 30 Mopar®-modified vehicles from the company’s Ram, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep®, SRT and Fiat brands. More than 500 Mopar accessories will be showcased in the exhibit.

“The aftermarket is a $34 billion-a-year industry and SEMA is the perfect place to showcase everything that Mopar has to offer,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service parts and customer-care brand. “At Mopar, we believe in giving our customers a lot of choices when they go to personalize their vehicles. And that is why we offer extreme personalization for every single car in our showrooms. In addition to head-turning image vehicles at the SEMA show, we also will introduce new must-see product and technology.”

Mopar image vehicles that will be on display at SEMA include:

Chrysler 300 SF6
Inspired by Chrysler 300 “Spring Festival” owners who participate in the Southern California owners’ gathering, the Mopar Underground Team designed the Chrysler 300 SF6 image vehicle with discrete styling and Mopar performance parts and accessories for the sixth-annual event.

Enhancing the “born-with-attitude” look of the Chrysler 300, the 300 SF6 is bolted with hardcore enthusiast hardware. Staggered 22-inch-by-9.5-inch and 22 inch-by-10.5-inch Savini Mono Di Forza SM3 aluminum wheels are wrapped with 265/35 R22 (front) and 295/30 R22 (rear) performance tires. For improved cornering and braking, this 300S model features a custom Mopar/KW coil-over-spring kit, front and rear strut-tower braces and larger SRT8® performance brakes.

A Mopar cold-air intake, custom Mopar long-tube headers, and Mopar/Corsa custom exhaust system combine to deliver even more performance from the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine. The Chrysler 300S model’s black-accented headlamps and monotone Tungsten Metallic look provide a ready-for-the-streets appearance, while unique body-color grille, front-chin and trunk spoilers provide an even more aggressive touch. Topping off the unique look is a gloss black painted roof that accentuates the clean lines of the Chrysler flagship sedan.

The interior of the Chrysler 300 SF6 exudes an athletic-luxury theme with Mopar/Katzkin performance seats trimmed in black with black/blue perforated leather and Mopar blue accent stitching.

The use of Piano Black on interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door-panel elements provide a uniquely lacquered and highly detailed appearance.

The Mopar audio by Kicker system in the Chrysler 300 SF6 features a dual 10-inch subwoofer enclosure mounted in the trunk; two, two-way speakers with domed tweeters mounted on the rear deck; 6-inch-by-9-inch midbass speakers mounted in each front door; and two 3.5-inch, two-way speakers with domed tweeters mounted in the left and right corners of the instrument panel.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Chrysler 300 SF6 include:

Item
Part number
Front strut-tower braces
P5155950
Strut-tower brace caps
P5155763
Rear strut-tower braces
P5155951
Rear strut-tower brace close out panels
68145039AA
Cold-air intake
77070044
Illuminated door-sill guards
82212284
Kicker audio system
77KPK316


Dodge Challenger SRT8 ACR
For the 2011 SEMA show, the Chrysler Group’s Mopar Underground team created a Challenger image vehicle with some cool ties to modern history. Influenced by the success of the Mopar Drag Pak Challenger and more recently, the Dodge Viper SRT10® ACR resetting the production car lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in Germany, Mopar Underground created the Dodge Challenger ACR based on the stellar Challenger SRT8 392. Some of Dodge’s and SRT’s best handling vehicles of all-time come with the ACR acronym attached to them, and the Challenger ACR is no different. The Challenger ACR is a no-frills homage to the original option-delete cars of the 1960s and 70s.

Equipped with Mopar parts, such as a coil-over suspension, front-and rear-strut tower braces, short-throw shifter, front splitter, cat-back exhaust, custom exhaust headers and a set of Goodyear F1 Supercar performance tires, the Challenger ACR is an animal that has as much bark as its cornering bite. Performance enhancements in the interior include carbon fiber door panels, front race bucket seats with openings for a racing harness and the rear seat is removed and replaced by a roll bar and fire extinguisher. An SRT three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, SRT gauge cluster, custom bright pedal kit, Mopar Drag Pack center stack and a carbon fiber center console finish off the interior modifications.

The exterior has design cues similar to those found on the Viper SRT10 ACR, including a white body, charcoal painted roof, carbon fiber hood, rear deck lid, rear spoiler and tail lamp surround and an offset flame red stripe that runs the length of the car. Red painted mirror caps and brake calipers, unique black painted five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels and red “ACR” fender badging finish off the exterior design details. The white and red theme carries over to the interior with white accents on the carbon fiber door panels, red armrest bars with white foam padding, red door latch release tethers, red painted roll bars and red accents on the carbon fiber racing seats covered in black Katzkin leather.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Dodge Challenger ACR include:

Item
Part number
Coil-over suspension
P5155942
Front-strut tower brace
P5155950
Front-strut tower brace caps
P5155763
Rear-strut tower brace
P5155751
Rear-strut tower brace close out panels
68095921AA
Short-throw shifter
P5155458
Cat-back exhaust
P5155957
Front-strut tower brace
P5155950
Drag Pack center stack
P5155250
I/P and shift bezel kit- carbon weave design
82211876
Door sill entry guards
82211234
Mopar fuel door
82212406

Dodge Durango Tow Hook
Dodge will be turning heads at this year’s SEMA show with a special Dodge Durango Tow Hook image vehicle designed by Mopar Underground. The Tow Hook infuses a healthy dose of eye-catching style to the already-sporty Durango design. The vibrant four-coat orange and satin-black color scheme is executed both inside and out to make this Durango one of the most unique and exciting vehicles at the show.

The exterior features a muscle-car inspired four-coat orange paint scheme, with satin-black roof, fascia accents and hood graphics, along with blacked-out lighting and twin-spoke 22-inch-by- 9.5-inch forged Superalloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli tires. A custom mandrel bent exhaust system featuring Corsa components increases performance and belts out an unforgettable tone. To finish off the exterior, the Dodge Durango Tow Hook wears a piano black split-crosshair grille and has a 25 mm reduced ride-height for a more aggressive stance.

Tow Hook’s interior features carry over the theme from the exterior and uses high-quality Mopar components, such as Durango logo door sill guards, aluminum pedal kit and premium carpeted floor mats to add a strong sense of sport to the cabin. The black, perforated Mopar Katzkin leather seats feature orange leather trim on the tops of the seat bolsters and are decorated with orange stitching and piping. Perforated Barracuda suede covers the seat inserts, while smooth suede bolsters with orange accent stitching and piping make the seats pop. Orange leather trim, stitching and piping is found on the center front armrest as well. The door panels also feature orange stitching and silver metal brush trim that is shared on the dash just above the glove box. Finishing off the interior modifications are an SRT steering wheel, black chrome trim around the vents, and piano-white trimmed radio/HVAC and center console bezels.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Dodge Durango Tow Hook include:

Item
Part Number
Durango logo door sill guards
82212281
Pedal kit
82212055
Premium carpet mats
82212326AB


Fiat 500 Titanium
Created for the performance enthusiast who wants a discretely “tuned” Fiat 500, the Mopar® Underground Team designed the Fiat 500 Titanium image vehicle with even more aggressive styling and premium sport-luxury details.

Below its Matte Titanium ‘whiskers and logo’ face, an aggressively sculpted front fascia is more pronounced and features large honeycomb grilles for maximum engine cooling. A satin black fascia insert with integrated LED fog lamps delivers a technical look. Above, circular projector headlamps are finished in gloss black to match the Fiat 500 Titanium’s exterior paint. From the side, 16 –inch-by- 6.5-inch Matte Titanium wheels feature a two-piece design. Custom Mopar lowering springs provide a lowered ride height and Matte Titanium front-and rear-brake calipers with larger rotors deliver improved stopping performance. Aggressively styled side skirts provide a more vertical profile and highlight the iconic curves of this performance Cinquecento. Matte Titanium exterior door handles and mirror caps add contrast to the deep-tinted glass. A large liftgate spoiler adds down force for improved stability at higher speeds, while a more aggressively styled rear fascia features a diffuser insert for improved aerodynamics. Additional exterior details on the Fiat 500 Titanium model include a Matte Titanium license plate brow and center-mounted trapezoidal exhaust tip. And to make sure the Fiat 500 Titanium delivers improved power, a Mopar cold-air intake and Mopar cat-back exhaust have been installed.

Inside, the Fiat 500 Titanium continues the athletic look with a black environment highlighted by Titanium Metallic accents. High-performance front seats are designed to be lightweight, and feature massive side bolsters and a racing-harness pass through for at-the-limit driving. Both front and rear seats are wrapped in smooth black leather and accented with Titanium Metallic vinyl seat centers. For added detail, all four seating positions feature a black leather center stripe with Metallic Gray accent stitching for a precise look. Titanium Metallic vinyl door bolsters feature accent stitching and pair with the Matte Titanium instrument panel and gauge cluster brow. Black floor mats with Titanium Metallic “500” logo and edge binding complete the look.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Fiat 500 Titanium include:

Item
Part Number
Cold-air intake
77070046
Strut-tower brace
P5155954
Cat-back exhaust
P5155986
Lowering spring kit
TBD

Fiat 500 Carbon
Adding even more style to the new 2012 Fiat 500 Sport, the Mopar® Underground Team designed the Fiat 500 Carbon image vehicle with Anodized Azzurro (blue) paint and unique blackened exterior and interior appointments – all designed to amplify the hatchback’s athletic Italian styling, craftsmanship, and nimble handling.

Enhancing the Fiat 500 Sport front fascia, the 500 Carbon integrates satin carbon fiber fog-lamp bezels and chin spoiler. For a more aggressive appearance, its signature ‘whiskers and logo’ face and circular projector headlamps are lacquered in Dark Hyper Black. Larger 17 –inch-by- 7-inch Dark Hyper Black aluminum wheels with wider 205/40 R 17 performance tires and exterior door handles are paired with satin carbon fiber mirror caps and tinted glass on the side profile. For greater cornering and performance, custom Mopar lowering springs, strut-tower brace and cold-air intake have been installed.

A more aggressive satin carbon fiber liftgate spoiler improves the Fiat 500 Carbon’s aerodynamic efficiency while adding down force for improved handling. Below, a powder-coated carbon fiber exhaust tip with Mopar cat-back exhaust provides an aggressive sound. Satin carbon fiber rear fascia bezels and valance provide additional detail, while a Dark Hyper Black license plate brow and tail lamp bezels continue the Fiat 500 Carbon’s serious look.

The interior of the Fiat 500 Carbon continues the blacked-out look and is highlighted by Anodized Azzurro accents. For a contemporary look, black leather sport seats feature embossed fabric with a textured geometric pattern in the seat centers. Azzurro accent piping on the seats, accent stitching on the sport-steering wheel and binding on the floor mats are color-matched to the Anodized Azzurro instrument panel bezel. Black chrome replaces traditional chrome on the Fiat 500 Carbon’s interior accents, while a carbon fiber instrument panel accents and shift knob provide added detail.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Fiat 500 Carbon include:

Item
Part Number
Cold-air intake
77070046
Strut-tower brace
P5155954
Cat-back exhaust
P5155986

Ram 392 Quick Silver
The Ram 392 Quick Silver began life as a 2011 Ram R/T. A 470 horsepower, 392 HEMI V-8 from the SRT lineup was dropped in and mated to the R/T’s 4.10 gear set and a high-stall converter. For additional performance, the Ram 392 is equipped with a cold-air intake kit and headers featuring an electronic exhaust cutout for maximum power and sound at the track.

For normal driving, a cat-back dual exhaust system intensifies the HEMI rumble. To improve braking performance, discs and calipers are replaced with a Brembo big brake kit, featuring 15-inch vented rotors and bright silver six-piston calipers in the front and rear. With the exception of a gloss black roof, the body is finished in a three-stage bright silver while the wheels, grille inserts, mirrors and select interior trim components are coated in anodized red paint.

A Mopar Underground, reverse deep-cowl aluminum hood design with functional heat extractors is inspired by the new Dodge Charger SRT8 and smoked lenses cover all exterior lighting. The Ram 392 Quick Silver is lowered 2 inches with the help of a custom suspension kit. The “slammed” look is made more evident by a Mopar body kit, consisting of sill and box pieces, finished up with a chin spoiler.

Mopar Underground added their 22-inch wheels wrapped in 275/45R22 tires up front and 305/40R22 tires in the rear. A Mopar hard tonneau cover with a unique integrated spoiler redirects the air for additional down force at high speeds and Mopar’s Bed Rug protects the paint. The interior features high-bolster SRT seats covered in Katzkin leather with red stitching and accents to match the steering wheel, instrument panel and Laramie Longhorn inspired leather shift knob, door panels and center console trim.

A set of Mopar Pedals and door sills are installed giving the interior an additional splash of functional aesthetics. Music is blasted through Kicker speakers, including tweeters in the instrument panel, mids in the doors and in the back, and woofers in the doors leaving plenty of room for gear behind the seats. Simply put, the Ram 392 Quick Silver is designed to be a truck that would appropriately share a garage with a Dodge Viper.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Ram 392 Quick Silver include:

Item
Part Number
Tonneau cover
82212215
Body kit
82211365
Bed rug
82209888
Door-sill guards
82212427
Katzkin leather seating
LTHROCS1DU
Premium carpet floor mats
82211003
Pedal kit
82212138

Mopar-First Features
Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

• Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
• Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
• Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
• Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to market with a new interactive vehicle tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on pre-set parameters
• 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
• Wi-Fi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
• WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Jeep Confirms More Diesel and Hybrids Under Development

In order to meet more stringent fuel-economy regulations, Chrysler Group will introduce diesel-powered and hybrid vehicles in the U.S. market. Automotive News reports that Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne sees such powertrains as the only way for Chrysler to meet future Corporate Average Fuel Economy rules.

Marchionne revealed that Chrysler will launch a diesel version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee in 2013. Thereafter, many larger Chrysler vehicles will be offered with diesels in the U.S. Chrysler has said that by 2014, diesels would account for 14 percent of its global sales, compared to 8 percent in 2009.

Most Chrysler products exported to Europe are already sold with diesel engines.  European-market Grand Cherokees can be equipped with a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 producing 237 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Sources in Europe previously revealed that the new eight-speed automatic transmission, which will debut in the Jeep Grand Cherokee soon, was suitable for use with the 3.0-liter diesel engine.

Jeep previously sold two diesel models in our market. The 2005 and 2006 Jeep Liberty was offered with a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel inline-four, producing 160 hp and 295 lb-ft. Then the 2007 and 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD launched with a Mercedes-built, 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 producing 215 hp and 376 lb-ft.

While diesel powertrains will help Chrysler boost its fuel-economy numbers somewhat, the company also will invest in hybrid technology. The first production model will be the 2013 Chrysler 300 hybrid, expected to use that car’s new ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission.

“I have no other way of getting to 2025 [CAFE] numbers than by going to hybrids,” Marchionne told AN.

If that doesn’t do enough to help Chrysler meet the government’s aggressive CAFE rules, the company also could consider adding vehicles that run on compressed natural gas. Marchionne reportedly wants “a sizable portion of the U.S. market” to have CNG capability.

Source: automobilemag.com

Spitzer is proud to announce we have teamed up with the Cleveland Food Bank to help provide for to those in need in our community.

Stay tuned for more information on this exciting partnership.

Photo

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Introducing the 2012 Chrysler 300.

Mix character and conviction. Add in luxury and pride you can notice from down the street. Top it off with an eight-speed transmission that gets 31 miles-per-gallon. This combination of luxury and efficiency comes from only one place in the world.

Friday, October 14, 2011

We would like to thank Bob for his hard work and Jessica for the great feedback

"No pressure to from Bob Siciliano..he was great, very informative.  Very genuine. You were also willing to deal on my Jeep Wrangler unlimited"- Jessica P.

Rs

We would like to thank Bob for his hard work and Jessica for the great feedback

"No pressure to from Bob Siciliano..he was great, very informative.  Very genuine. You were also willing to deal on my Jeep Wrangler unlimited"- Jessica P.

Rs

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Chrysler Group Supports Diversity, Talent Development and Leadership Through Sponsorship of the National Student Case Competition

Talented MBA candidates from many of the nation’s leading business schools competed for $50,000 in scholarships in the 2011 National Student Case Competition, sponsored by Chrysler Group LLC.

The National Student Case Competition is a unique, annual event designed to give high-powered student teams an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and problem-solving skills in a formal competition. Teams are given a hypothetical business case from which they develop business solutions. Each student team then prepares and presents its case before a panel of experienced business executives. Teams are judged on their analysis of the case, the feasibility of their recommendations and the quality of their presentations.

The competition is held as part of the National Black MBA Association's Annual Conference and Exposition, which was held this year October 4-8 in Atlanta. Chrysler Group has been the exclusive sponsor of the National Student Case Competition since 1995.  Over that time, more than 1,500 MBA students have participated in the competition.

"Programs like the National Student Case Competition enable Chrysler Group to identify talented future business leaders," said Nancy A. Rae, Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Chrysler Group LLC and Co-Chair of the Company's Global Diversity Council. "Over the years, the competition has evolved into the premier showcase event for student achievement and an important way Chrysler Group demonstrates its continuing commitment to developing diverse talent and future business leaders." 

This year, the students from the Florida A&M University took home the first place trophy as national champions and $25,000 in scholarships. The winning team members were Antoinyce Eaton, Benjamin Evans and Cianna Reaves, all current MBA students at Florida A &M University. The second and third place teams represented Penn State University and the University of Georgia, earning $15,000 and $10,000 in scholarships respectively.

About Chrysler's Leadership Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Chrysler historically has been a leader in promoting diversity throughout its enterprise. The Company was named one of the "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers” by Working Mother magazine 12 times, and has been recognized five times by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation as one of the country's leading corporations supporting diversity and inclusion.

Since 2009, Chrysler Group has been named to HispanicBusiness magazine's annual Diversity Elite 60 list for implementing strategies to reach more Hispanic customers and to pursue more business with minority- and Hispanic-owned suppliers.

Early in 2010, CEO Sergio Marchionne assumed the role as executive sponsor of Chrysler's Global Diversity Council and reaffirmed the commitment of Chrysler's leadership team to the values and principles of diversity. "Culture is the fabric that holds organizations together. It is not just an ingredient for success; it is the essence of success itself," Marchionne wrote. "This is why my leadership team and I are committed to creating an atmosphere where all of our people feel respected and valued, because every person plays an important role in shaping our future, including employees, our supply base, our marketing and our dealer network. Chrysler Group LLC and its people have a future with promise. We will reach the full measure of that promise only as one, united diverse team."

In March 2011, the editors of DiversityInc magazine named Chrysler Group to the magazine's 2011 list of "Top 50 Companies for Diversity." This coveted annual benchmark is comprised of companies the magazine's editors believe are diversity-management leaders. This was the fifth year since the list was established in 2001 that Chrysler has been included.

In April 2011, Chrysler Group was named among nation's "Top Supporters" of Engineering Programs of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, recognizing the Company's efforts in developing, recruiting and hiring talented students pursuing technical careers at the nation's minority-serving institutions.

Source:Chrysler

Friday, October 7, 2011

Thursday, October 6, 2011

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Review

2srt-main1006_rdax_646x258

The design of a modern day classic automobile isn’t shaped so much by the outward shell as it is by the memories it stirs up inside you. It’s a feeling in your gut as much as it is a visceral connection to the sounds of quad exhaust pipes or the way sunlight glistens from the polished alloy wheels.

 

FAST FACTS

1. With a new 6.4L V8 under the hood, the SRT8 model makes 470-hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, a jump of 45-hp an 90 lb-ft respectively.

2. Dodge claims a high four second 0-60 mph time with a mid 12 second quarter-mile time and a top speed of 182-mph.

3. Thanks to cylinder deactivation the big V8 can run on just 4-cylinders, resulting in a 14/23-mpg rating.

4. While the 375-hp R/T model starts at under $30K the SRT9 392 retails for a whopping $43,995.

The 2012 Challenger SRT8 392 is the epitome of all that was good in the early ’70s with Dodge. A sensory overload on four wheels, I recently had occasion to spend time behind the wheel and regain a little of my lost youth.

 

HEMI POWER AND SURPRISING FUEL ECONOMY

Power comes in the guise of a 392 ci (6.4-liter) SRT HEMI V8 engine. It pounds the pavement with 470 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. Zero to 60 mph takes a few ticks less than 5 seconds.

Power increases over the previous SRT8 by a total of 45 hp and 90 lb-ft as a result of significant modifications made to the previously formidable 6.1-liter HEMI engine. Changes include the addition of a new cold-air induction system, an active intake manifold, variable cam timing, high-flow cylinder heads and size increases for both the intake and exhaust valves to maximize airflow, combustion and efficiency.

 

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Engine

Not all has to do with ultimate power, however, as there are times, especially in this era of high fuel costs, that you may want to cruise rather than bruise the pavement. Matched to the seamless AutoStick transmission, the V8 engine quickly transitions to four cylinders while driving at steady speeds on the highway or activating cruise control. Fuel-saver technology allows you the option to enjoy the best of both worlds. Ratings indicate 14-mpg city, 23-mpg highway

 

DRIVE IN STYLE – RIDE IN COMFORT

Matched to the standard Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission first offered on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, shifts are smooth and easily controlled. Clutch feel is solid, but not heavy as was always the case back in the good old days. Moving through the gears at speeds capable of peeling rubber faster than you can say “392”; this Challenger is by far one of the most fun, high-performance cars I’ve driven in the past several years.

 

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

Ride quality is firm, but not overly so when compared to the Nissan 370Z NISMO, Ford Mustang Boss 302 and Chevrolet Camaro SS. The Challenger 392 SRT8 Inaugural Edition rides on 245/45/20 front and 255/45/20 rear tires mounted on SRT exclusive 5-spoke polished wheels with black painted pockets. Steering ratios are significantly quicker and new negative camber settings improve overall handling. Red caliper Brembo brakes bring everything to a controlled, rapid stop.

 

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Handling 

Exterior styling cues include a unique front chin spoiler, body-colored grille surround, exclusive “392 Hemi” badges and a rear deck spoiler. Two colors are offered for the limited volume Inaugural Edition; Deep Water Blue with Stone White stripes or Bright White Clear Coat with standard Viper Blue stripes.

 

A FFRESH TAKE ON A CLASSIC INTERIOR

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Interior

Smooth Pearl White leather seats with dual blue stripes and blue stitching highlight the impressive interior. It’s a throw-back to a simpler time in automotive history, but with a fully functional 21st Century twist.

Blue lighting illuminates the black on white gauges as the sun sets. Dual cupholders feature LED lighting, casting a ghostly glow over the center storage console. A pistol-grip gear knob feels good; shifts are relatively short for this modern day North American muscle car. The joy of driving with one arm resting on the door sill and music blaring through 13 high-performance speakers is pure bliss.  

In tune with the times, a 3-spoke steering wheel offers intuitive audio adjustment plus tilt functionality. The speedo reads up to 180 mph, a fact not lost on me as I push hard on the race inspired clutch and gas pedals. This is driving pleasure the way it was meant to be.

 

THE VERDICT

The 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 is not for everyone, nor was it ever intended to be. It represents the pinnacle of what Challenger means to Dodge at a time when parent company Chrysler is bent on re-inventing itself. The Camaro and Mustang may have the edge in sales, but with a Hemi under the hood and and an incredible design, this is one Challenger ready for a fight.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Caught Testing: 2013 Dodge Viper - Spy Shots

Dodge sharpens the fangs of its super sports car.

By Nick Kurczewsk

The 2013 Dodge Viper is about to become a little more civilized, though not at the expense of tire-smoking performance and testosterone-fueled design. If anything, the next-gen Viper is going to pack an even bigger punch than the models that have come before. Our spy photographers recently captured Viper prototypes with what appears to be a production-ready front fascia, grille and hood.

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From these images, the awkward jump from the 2011 to 2013 model year does not appear all that dramatic. That muscular, swept-back roadster shape remains true to the original 1992 RT/10. A toned-down grille and larger, more elongated headlights are visible beneath the camouflage. Like the previous Viper, there looks to be a large center air intake on the hood. But in these images there seems to be two smaller intakes on either side.

Is Dodge pulling a fast one, or is the next Viper going to wear a much wilder hood than before?

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Raucous Refinement

Only a few weeks ago, we had the chance to peek inside the interior of the next Viper. What we saw shed light on how Dodge plans to evolve a sports car famous for making few, if any, compromises. Located on the steering wheel were, at first glance, what looked like active cruise control buttons. Our guess is that these will control a programmable traction control system, with modes for sport, track and low grip conditions. Being a Dodge Viper, we’re certain there will also be an “off” mode.

A Bilstein Adaptive Damping Suspension button on the center tunnel will bring the Viper’s suspension in line with the rest of the SRT range. The electronically controlled dual-mode dampers should go a long way toward providing a more comfortable and controlled ride in all driving conditions. Of course, we’d love to see under the hood of the 2013 Viper. Chances are good you’ll find an evolution of the existing 8.4-liter V-10 engine, coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission.

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During its final year of production, the 2011 Viper SRT10 was pumping out 600 bhp at the crankshaft. Expect a jump of 50 to 100 bhp, thanks to new engine mapping and some fine-tuning – Ferrari is supposed to have had a hand in the development. Look for the Viper to debut early next year, during the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Chrysler and Dodge were both very quiet when it came to excitement at last year’s show. A mega-horsepower roadster might not be the volume seller the automaker needs, but it could provide an overdue jolt of fun.