Dodge Creating a Bold and Powerful Statement in China

In the news: Dodge—Chrysler’s brand of automobiles, trucks and auto components such as Dodge mufflers --- has officially entered China with a bold and powerful statement at the Auto Shanghai 2007 as it presents two of its first products for the brand---the locally made Dodge Caravan and the imported Dodge Caliber.

These two Dodge vehicles in addition to the other Dodge products on display at the Shanghai show, reflects the potential and scope of the Dodge brand. Each of these vehicles delivers the four key attributes of the Dodge brand which relates to boldness, power, capability, and smartness of attitude---together they reflects the exciting present and future of the brand as it continues to expand towards the global automotive market.

According to Thomas Hausch, Executive Director –International Sales and marketing, Chrysler Group, "We have a clear and assertive brand identity for Dodge. We established a strong and distinct character for our new Dodge products and now expand the brand into China, one of the most promising automotive markets in the world. As we begin to define the brand through its products at Auto Shanghai 2007, we can clearly illustrate the breadth, potential and excitement that the brand offers."

The New Dodge Caravan
The new Dodge Caravan reflects the objective of Chrysler Group to make the best-selling, best-looking minivan in the market while retaining the minivan formula of right-sized vehicle designed from the inside out.

The introduction of the modern minivan in 1984 by the Chrysler Group has changed the way people look at family and business transportation. Chrysler’s minivan is given a design that is formulated to achieve continuous success for 23 years. The new Dodge Caravan designed for the Chinese market exudes the original minivan formula with modern enhancements and the used of high quality minivan components such a Dodge muffler.

The Dodge Caravan has remained true to its original design theme and strived for more convenience and comfort. It features easy entry and exit, chair-height seating, low-flat floor, flexible seating options with the Stow n’ Go™ seating and storage system plus multiple safety and convenience features. It can be said that the Dodge Caravan has somewhat matured into a useful, comfortable, and appealing vehicle.

The Dodge Caravan is easily recognized through its bold styling and distinctive crosshair grille that has become the signature face of Dodge. The Caravan is the very first Dodge built in China under a license agreement between Chrysler Group and SEM, a Chinese auto manufacturer situated in Fuzhou, a Fujian province of Southeast China. The Caravan is scheduled to hit dealerships toward the end of the 2007.

Hausch said, "The decision to build the Dodge Caravan in China for the local market is the key to being competitive in a country where significant growth opportunities are anticipated for years to come. Our leadership is committed to the expansion of the Dodge brand outside North America, and partnerships such as this one will help us to ensure the brand's success."

The Dodge Caliber
Due to its successful entry to markets around the world and being the top-selling Chrysler Group product outside North America, Chrysler has decided to take the Dodge Caliber to China this year. The Caliber is a new niche on the C-segment with its bold styling, high value, and utility. The Caliber will definitely appeal to customers who want the Dodge attitude package complete with capability and versatility of a sport-utility type vehicle with high fuel efficiency.

Dodge Caliber is a five-door vehicle that combines a sporty-coupe like profile with the strength, functionality, and stance of an SUV. The Caliber’s remarkable surface treatment attracts attention and exudes the attributes that define the Dodge brand. The Caliber offer smart engine options, high levels of safety, security and innovative features combined in one very appealing package. The Caliber is scheduled to hit dealerships in the first quarter of 2008.

Dodge Viper SRT10 and Dodge Avenger
The Viper SRT10 is said to be the ultimate American sports car and the icon of the brand, it produces an unbelievable amount of power with stunning performance from its 8.3 liter V10 engine and instantly recognizable looks.

The Avenger is an all-new four door mid-size segment sedan that combines bold, aggressive Dodge styling with power and performance plus fuel efficiency, innovative interior features, and high levels of safety and reliability.

The Viper and the Avenger are to be displayed at the Auto Shanghai 2007 are proofs of the progress achieved by the Chrysler Group product offensive as well as the great potential for the Dodge brand in China and other international markets.