Plug-In Ram Pickup Trucks

Based on the lack of success from General Motors Hybrid truck efforts, Chrysler scrapped efforts to produce a Hybrid Two Mode Hemi. Instead, The Chrysler Group, who manages the Ram brand, is focusing on fuel-efficiency.

Industry analyst Aaron Bragman of HIS Global Insights said the Hybrid Two-Mode is “a good concept in a too-expensive package.”

Because truck buyers tend to want high-torque, Hemi-based trucks, it made no sense to pursue the hybrid system with “sales potentially below 1,000.”

Chrysler will continue Hybrid research, with plans to “build 140 plug-in hybrid pickup trucks for a three-year demonstration program funded by $48 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.”

The plug-in trucks will still have a 5.7-liter V-8 engine, but will use a larger, 12-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion pack rather than the previous 1.6-kilowatt-hour nickel-metal-hydride battery pack. This should allow the truck to run up to 20 miles on electricity, improving fuel efficiency by more than 65 percent.

Pickuptrucks.com
Allpickuptrucks.com
GreenCarReports.com

Chrysler Reports Increased Sales Across All Brands

On the first of December Chrysler Group LLC reported that November US auto sales increased 17% compared to the same period last year. Chrysler reported 74,152 vehicle sales against 63,560 units from November 2009. 

Ram truck sales increased 67% and Jeep sales increased 58%. Fred Diaz, President and CEO of Ram Truck Brand and Lead Executive for U.S. Sales said, “we are pleased with the sales momentum that has been building this year, and elated now that we are showing off the vehicles we’ve been talking about.” 

What are the vehicles talked about? Chrysler will launch 11 new or remodeled Chrysler, Dodge, Ram and Fiat vehicles during the fourth quarter!

2011 Dodge Charger - An Inspired Icon

Released: October 2010

According to Dodge, the new Charger is “spiritually inspired by the iconic second-generation Charger from the late 1960s, featuring a design that is sure to strike an emotional chord with Dodge performance enthusiasts of all generations.”

2010 v. 2011

 

With many upgrades, the 2011 Charger is a powerful vehicle for the Chrysler fall vehicle lineup. Body-style modifications have bolstered the iconic muscle car image, with a unique style that creates a tapered, silhouette look. The front and rear fenders create a bold, distinct profile. The new tail lamp incorporates 164 illuminating LED lights to form an unmistakable profile.

Among other aesthetic modifications, like the “split crosshair” grille, upgrades to the body-style have created a more aerodynamic model. With a lower hood line, faster windshield, raked headlights and a flat underbody, the new design is more wind resistant. Dual “scallops” in the aluminum hood and on the side deliver an A-line across the doors.

Improvements in the cabin have increased sound quality. Rather than focus on sound-level, the 2011 Charger isolates the powertrain, paired with an acoustic windshield and front door glass resulting in less road and wind noise. Other improvements include body-cavity silencing foam and acoustic wheel-well liners.

Engine
The base engine, a 292 horsepower V6, is estimated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Slightly less than the 2011 Challenger, it has better gas mileage and is more powerful and quieter than the 250 horsepower 3.5 liter, resulting in better acceleration.

The confirmed lineup is:

The Dodge Charger SE with a standard 292 horsepower v6 engine.

The SXT and SXT Plus which adds 18 inch polished wheels, 8.4 inch stereo with Uconnect, heated seats and a leather interior.

The Rallye Group model has 20 inch chrome wheels, a rear spoiler, 9 speakers and a 506-watt amp.

The R/T and R/T Road & Track models house the powerful 5.7 Hemi (with 372 horsepower) a unique grille, 20 inch wheels, spoiler, badging, performance exhaust and more!

The R/T AWD model has the R/T equipment plus 19 inch twin-spoke wheels, a lowered suspension, active transfer case with front axle disconnect for better gas mileage.

3 Simple Tips to Avoid Serious Vehicle Flood Damage

The North Carolina coast is no stranger to knee deep roads and parking lot pools. Because Wilmington can be prone to flood, it is important to be aware of potential water damage to your vehicle. It is best to avoid traveling in severe rainstorms, but if you must, be sure to take care of your vehicle.


If you have been traveling in flooded areas, as soon as possible, check your engine and transmission fluids. If the fluids are milky, beige or appear diluted it could mean water is in the pans. If you have your doubts, tow your vehicle to a repair center. Driving with water in the oil or transmission will result in serious damage. A quick fix is to have a repair center completely drain the pans and replace with new fluids.

Your next area of concern should be your brakes. When your brake system is completely dried, replace all fluids. Once the vehicle is dry, completely re-lubricate the vehicle.

A common misconception is to allow a water drenched interior to simply dry on its own. The fabric will dry, but water will seep through the material and collect underneath the firewall. If left alone, this will mildew—a smell that won’t go away! Interior water damage is a leading cause for insurance companies to declare vehicles a total loss. The best practice is to completely replace the interior material.

Because flooding can be rapid and unexpected, avoid driving in severe rainstorms unless absolutely necessary. Be safe!

Dodge "Man Van"

The minivan has undergone many changes over the years pertaining to size and style, but few changes have targeted the minivan perception. While some brands inspire pride from their owners, the minivan usually settles for a vehicle of convenience. In an effort to challenge the perception for men that the minivan is “the price for settling down,” Dodge is introducing the “man van” (TheCarConnection.com).


Dodge brand CEO Ralph Gilles calls it “package innovation.” Critics are calling the changes a ploy to make some older vehicles new again, with cosmetic changes. Chrysler is combatting the recent “Swagger Wagon” from Toyota. Chrysler has not revealed much about the release, but according to The Wall Street Journal and TheCarConnection.com, the model will resemble the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T concept.

The Grand Caravan R/T concept was released at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show as a special package. The concept, which did not receive much attention, was a sportier Grand Caravan. Like the R/T concept, the “man van” will likely feature a hood scoop with air vent, upgraded grill and wheels, and an attractive reddish paint job. The interior will probably be leather with matching red stitching.

It is not unclear whether the “man van” will be a new vehicle, or a trim package, but is it enough to change public perception of the soccer mom kid-mobile?

2011 Chrysler 200

(rumored to be named Sebring, Nassau and 200C)

Allpar.com says the 2011 Chrysler 200 has a “more refined and spirited driving experience than the Sebring.”

The 200 will be practically all new with a have high level of standard features. The exterior upgrades include a new grille and badge and newly designed front and rear fenders and hood. The 200 will feature projector headlamps and fog lamps, LED tail lamps and a center high mounted brake light.

The luxurious interior will feature a new instrument panel with a new gauge face. The interior will be made with upgraded materials with a new seat design. To reduce noise and inside vibration, the Chrysler 200 will feature laminated glass for the windshield and front door windows.

Consumers will have the option of a 2.4 liter I-4 World Gas Engine (4 or 6 speed automatic) or a Pentastar V-6. The V-6 engine boasts 283 horsepower.

Expect the all-new 2011 Chrysler 200 at dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2010.

2011 Dodge Durango is here!

Dubbed the “big brother” of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the brand new Durango is the Dodge version of the sport utility vehicle. And for good reason—the Durango offers the same engines as the Cherokee, with a 5.7 liter Hemi V-8 option or Chrysler’s 3.6 liter Pentastar V-6. According to the automaker, the new Dodge Durango has a stronger body structure and can tow up to 7,400 pounds with the V-8 (6,200 pounds with the V-6).

The interior has undergone some major aesthetic changes as well. The third row seating offers 22 seating configurations for passengers and gear. Dodge revealed that the same studio that redesigned the Ram interior worked on the Durango. In the past, Dodge vehicles have been criticized for having low quality interior. Listening to their customers, Dodge has introduced higher grade materials to replace some of the dense plastic. If the Jeep Grand Cherokee is any indication of what the automaker can do with luxury-style vehicles, the Durango is sure to impress!

Safety

When the topic is safety, the Durango has made many features standards. There are side and side-curtain air bags all the way to the third row. Active head restraints and electronic stability control come standard in all vehicles. Optional safety features include technology to monitor blind spots, detect objects behind the vehicle, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The Durango is the first in a series of new designs from Dodge. Look for the Charger, Avenger and Grand Voyager minivan soon!

What to Do After an Accident

1. Don’t leave the scene

We recommend that you stay in your vehicle until the authorities arrive. The first thing you should do is call the police to report the accident. In many states this is required by law. If legal action becomes necessary, a police report will be a valuable asset in court.


2. Call for a tow

Once you have called the police, it may be necessary to call for a tow. Even if the vehicle is drivable, a tow can help minimize further damage. It is important to know what company is towing your car and where it is being taken.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

If possible, call your insurance company from the scene of the accident. If you are able to give all of the important information up front, it will save you time later when they are administering your claim.

4. Get An Estimate On Vehicle Damage

Pay close attention to the damage estimate. You want to know what you and your insurance company will be paying. Make sure to ask questions you have regarding any required repairs.

 
Whether this is new to you, or a friendly reminder, when you find yourself in an accident, the shock and surprise may keep you from thinking clearly. Keep this reminder card in your vehicle in case you need it:

Print

3 Vehicles Ranked in Top 10 for Best Back Seats

CNNMoney.com ranked Chrysler, Ram and Jeep brands among 10 vehicles with the "best back seats."

#3 – Chrysler Town & Country
The second row seats can be rearranged to face the third row. Two video screens with separate live TV systems are also available. One TV by Sirius provides children’s programming; the FLO TV has about 20 other channels of entertainment.

#4 – Dodge Ram Crew Cab

With as much room as many luxury cars, the Wi-Fi connection and hidden floor storage bins puts the Dodge Ram Crew Cab among the highest ranked.

#6 – Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

For outdoor lovers, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited can’t be beat with the top down and doors removed. There is just nothing like it!

Finally, a Truck Made for the Outdoor Enthusiast

According to a Chrysler Group News Update, Ram trucks are now tailored directly for the outdoor enthusiast. The Outdoorsman “takes all of the features most useful to hunters, fisherman, campers and boaters, and combines them in one model.”

One hunter-friendly feature is the Mopar RamBox Holster, a watertight, lockable gun rack that can hold two rifles or shotguns. Located on either side of the truck bed, the rack can be altered to hold six fishing poles. Additional features include scratch-resistant bumpers, puncture-resistant tires and towing. Most models accommodate the Outdoorsman trim line.

We also have some lifted and accessorized Ram trucks on our lot:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010 Ram 3500

with lift, rims and accessories

2010 Ram 1500

with lift, rims and accessories

2010 Ram 1500

with lift and accessories

Family Room on Wheels

Chrysler Group, pioneer of the minivan, has lead the segment for the past 25 years with 12 million sales. The Houston Chronicle raves excellent reviews for the 2010 Town & Country, writing that the end is not yet in sight.

Three different models present customers with a more contemporary appearance. The 2010 model offers different trim levels, two industry-exclusive seating and storage systems and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. There are more than 40 available safety features and an estimated fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon city and 25 mpg highway.

Arc Voss (Houston Chronicle and the Vallejo Times-Herald) coined the Town & Country as a “family room on wheels.” Fun-features, and spacious, practical comforts make the Town & Country the ideal family vehicle for on-the-go lifestyles. Raving about the “entertainment goodies,” Voss wrote that the Limited is “a blessing in disguise.” Voss, who took the Town & Country on a tip to Disneyland with his daughter and grandchildren referred to the Limited as “invaluable transport.” With two separate screens, everyone settled down with their own entertainment choice.

Limited Edition Challenger Unveiled!

A special-edition Mopar version of the 2010 Dodge Challenger will arrive at dealerships in August! The Mopar ’10 as it will be called, is only available in brilliant black, with a choice of blue, red or silver accent colors. According to Chrysler Group LLC, it is intended to appear “wicked” and “sinister.”


President and CEO of the Dodge brand, Ralph Giles confirmed by saying, “The vehicle looks absolutely sinister in black. (The) triple black looks is really cool right now and pops the Mopar stripe the best.” (USA Today).


According to the Wall Street Journal, the special-edition Challenger is highly customizable and is the “auto maker’s biggest step yet to promote its part and accessories unit.” Chrysler Group LLC will sell only 500 Mopar ’10 vehicles. The special-edition Challenger is the first Mopar version of any of their vehicles. According to MotorTrend, the Mopar ’10 is based off of an R/T and fits in between a standard R/T and the SRT8.


In the Detroit News, Mopar CEO Pietro Gorlier said, “Dodge put the heart into this Challenger, and Mopar added the soul.” A looming, sinister soul!

http://www.neuwirthmotors.com/

Oil Changes: How Often is Enough?

“Engine Oil: Your Car’s Life Blood… No other maintenance item is so important for extending the vehicle’s life and reducing repair costs.” – AAA Auto Guide: Making Sense of Car Care

Why do you need to change your vehicle’s oil? Contaminants slowly accumulate in a vehicle engine; if you leave them there, it can cause major damage to your automobile. When you change the oil, contaminants such as carbon and metal are removed.

 IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHANGE YOUR OIL REGULARLY!

Take this quick quiz:
Do any of the following describe your driving or environment?

[ ] Frequent stop-and-go driving
[ ] Temperatures falling below 32 degrees Fahrenheit
[ ] Extended engine idling
[ ] Dusty driving conditions
[ ] Trips less than 10 miles
[ ] 50% of driving is a high speeds during hot weather (50 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
[ ] Towing
[ ] Delivery or commercial vehicle
[ ] Frequent off-road operation
[ ] Use of E-85 (ethanol) fuel

Do any of these apply to your driving style? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions it is important that you change your oil at least every 3,000 miles.

Note: It is also important to regularly check your oil. If the oil level is below the ADD mark, make sure to add enough to be in the Full Range Mark.


If your engine runs out of oil, it could cause irreversible damage. You may have to replace the entire engine!

Chrysler Sales Up 35%

The Wall Street Journal reported that Chrysler’s sales are up 35% for the month of June compared to 2009 figures.

Chrysler, Jeep and Ram sales were higher than last year, but Dodge sales contributed to most of the increase. According to the Associated Press there was a 67 % increase among Dodge sales. June is the third consecutive month for year-over-year sales increases for Chrysler (Detroit Free Press).

Fred Diaz, president and CEO of the Ram Truck Brand confirmed the year-over-year sales as continuing “to build on our sales momentum. Excitement also continues to grow as the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokees arrive on lots (Detroit News).

Estimated June U.S. industry sales total $11.3 million.

Dodge Challenger Awards

AutoPacific® Best In Class Ideal Vehicle for the Sporty Car Category

With sleek good looks, a muscular edge and power at your fingertips, what's not to like about the bold 2009 Dodge Challenger. But it's more than just that. That's why people turn to look whether it's barreling down the road or standing still. Challenger owners will be the first ones to tell you that. In fact, they told AutoPacific® they like it so much that the 2009 Dodge Challenger was just named the AutoPacific® Best In Class Ideal Vehicle for the Sporty Car category. But Challenger owners didn't stop there. They were so satisfied with this vehicle that they also shared their impressions with J.D. Power and Associates, resulting in the Challenger being ranked the "Most Appealing Midsize Sporty Car" in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 APEAL Study.

J.D. Power and Associates 2009 APEAL Study

The APEAL Study[1] examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 90 vehicle attributes. Study responses were gathered between February and May 2009 from more than 80,900 purchasers and lessees of new 2009 model-year cars and trucks that were surveyed after 90 days of ownership.

AutoPacific® Ideal Vehicle Award

Using 15 key attributes, owners were asked to rate their new 2009 cars and trucks. The vehicle that owners would change the least then received the title of AutoPacific® Best In Class Ideal Vehicle. This year, 2009 Dodge Challenger took the top prize in the Sporty Car category.

Dodge Trophy Room @ Dodge.com

Tire Tips: Tire Buyer's Guide

Edge Wear

When the inside and outside edges of the tire are worn, it generally indicates an underinflated tire or hard covering.

  

Center Wear

When the center of the tire is worn, as shown here, it generally indicates an overinflated tire.

Shoulder Wear

When the shoulder of the tire has a thin line of wear, it usually indicates misalignment.

  

Irregular Patch Wear

Flat spots and patchy or scalloped wear generally indicate improperly balanced tires or bent/worn suspension components.

  

Worn Thread

Narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread are wear bars, designed to indicate that the tire is worn and needs replacing.

How to extend the life of your tires

How you drive and maintain your tires affects tire life nearly as much as where you drive. Here are a few tips to help extend the life of your tires.

Maintain good driving habits

• observe posted speed limits
• avoid fast starts and sharp turns
• avoid potholes when possible
• park carefully away from curbs

Observe vehicle loading guidelines
Important vehicle loading information can be found in the Owner’s Manual and/or the tire placard located inside the front driver-side door.

Maintain correct inflation pressure
Using a quality tire gauge, check the pressure in your tires at least once a month and before any long road trips. Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold. For the proper cold-tire inflation pressures, see your Owner’s Manual for tire pressure label location and/or the tire placard located inside the front driver-side door. Maintaining proper air pressure in your tires can help improve the ride, save fuel and maximize the life of your tires.

Rotate tires regularly
Rotating your tires can extend tire life by up to 20%. In general, your tires should be rotated during every other oil change, or more frequently depending upon your driving habits and road conditions. See your Owner’s Manual for the tire rotation schedule.

Inspect tires regularly
Once a month, take a few moments to check all of your tires, including the spare. Look for signs of tire wear or visible damage. Make sure all the tire valves have valve caps, which help keep our dirt and moisture.

Maintain your vehicle regularly
Because many vehicle components, including shocks, struts, and brakes, can affect tire performance, have your vehicle inspected regularly at our dealership and follow the recommended maintenance schedule listed in your Owner’s Manual.

Free Tire Rotation for Life with Purchase of 4 Tires

There's an app for that Jeep

Last year, Chrysler Group LLC introduced DVD user guides to replace traditional owner manuals. To many consumers, it is no surprise that Chrysler has announced the launch of the automotive industry's first FREE vehicle-owner information apps for smartphones. The first downloadable app is for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, followed by apps for Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram brand vehicles.  

According to Mopar CEO Pietro Gorlier, with the new apps, Chrysler Group is “taking customer care to a new level by creating a convenient, on-demand channel of communication with out customers.”  

According to USA Today the app will include:  

• general vehicle operating information
• maintenance information
• warranty and product features
• video demonstrations.

 

 

The app also allows customers to “connect to the company’s brand on social media sites” and “will include numbers of customer care and 24-hour-road-side assistance” (Edmunds).

 

 

The app is available FREE to everyone!

 

10 Reasons to Choose Chrysler, Dodge & Jeep

1. Four vehicles are "Top Safety Picks" from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS); 2010 Dodge Journey, 2010 Dodge Avenger, 2010 Jeep Patriot, 2010 Chrysler Sebring Sedan

2. 2010 Ram Heavy Duty pickup awarded Motor Trend Magazine’s “2010 Truck of the Year”

3. Jeep Named Top Domestic Brand in Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com 2010 Residual Value Study


4. 2010 Dodge Caliber with all-new interior available at dealerships now


5. Chrysler Group is investing in the United States and hiring new employees. $179 million investment in the Dundee, Michigan. GEMA engine plant creating 155 Chrysler Group jobs and 573 industry-wide jobs. Engineers, Training and Fleet staff hired at Chrysler Group headquarters in Auburn, Michigan.

 6. Ram 1500 pickup truck ranked at the top of Strategic Vision 2009 Total Quality Index. Ram 1500 leads the way with the highest Total Quality score of any truck in the 15-year history of the study.


7. Chrysler Town & Country earned the R.L. Polk Owner Loyalty award for the ninth consecutive year. With more than 12 million minivans sold and 65 minivan-first inventions, Chrysler, the inventor of the modern minivan, leads the industry. 60-day Minivan Pledge gives new owners peace of mind with their purchase.

8. 40 years of Dodge Challenger history is brought to life with “Plum Crazy” and “Furious Fuschia” Dodge Challengers available now



9. 75 percent of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles will be all-new or substantially redone by the end of 2010.


10. Chrysler Group expects to fully pay back money borrowed from the U.S. Treasury (TARP) and the Canadian Government (EDC) on or before 2014.