The Jeep “Lower Forty” takes the Jeep Wrangler platform to a new extreme. The vehicle is equipped with massive 40-inch x 13.5-inch tires mounted on Mopar’s 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels. Mopar added aggressive wheels and tires to a stock, two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon without the use of a suspension lift. The team’s goal was to achieve added ground clearance without dramatically altering the vehicle’s center of gravity. The team removed copious amounts of body metal in order to provide room for 40-inch meats. Three inches are chopped from the windshield frame and a 10-degree rake is added.
The Jeep Wrangler Overland is perfect for those craving travel and adventure. The Mopar design team took a 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon and turned it into a mobile “on-the-go” self-contained campsite. To increase cargo capacity for hauling gear, the Jeep Wrangler Overland’s rear seats are replaced with a large, flat, rubberized utility floor. Mounted to the cargo rack is an all-new ARB two-person Simpson II rooftop-mounted tent and touring awning. The interior of the Jeep Wrangler Overland features water-resistant Mopar front-seat covers, rugged Mopar slush mats, a Daystar dash bin and lower switch panel that powers added accessories.
Chrysler is making leaps and bounds with their company and are claiming to be the first automotive manufacturer to provide digital owners manuals to customers. Chrysler is somewhat known for oddball moves (look at PT Cruiser, need I say more?), did the company even consider the times when a vehicle is broken down and the owners manual is needed to find a specific part? Or how about when you have a high end audio system and you blow a fuse? You are dead in the water. While the transition into the digital era may help "save 930 tons of paper, or equivilant of 20,000 trees on an annual basis", there are times (like selling someone a freaking car) when an owners manual is needed. Press release inside for anyone who cares.
Approximately 40 percent of Jeep Wrangler customers who order exterior accent packages will purchase chrome to customize their vehicle. A Mopar-outfitted 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, on display this week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, showcases a new line of chromed parts and accessories from the minds of Mopar.
Only 640 Jeeps in the world will have this classic wheel because there will be only one production run of the new Mickey Thompson limited edition Signature Series wheel for Jeeps! This stunning aluminum wheel offers Mickey Thompson's popular Classic II styling with a beautiful painted and clear coated satin black finish, a new black center cap with the Mickey Thompson logo, and an authentic Mickey Thompson signature badge. The new wheel will be available in 15x8 and 15x10 sizes with a 5x4.5 Jeep bolt pattern.
Chrysler Group LLC today announced new incentives, “Double CA$H for Your Old Car,” that can save consumers up to $9,000 toward the purchase of a new Chrysler, Jeep® or Dodge vehicle. “Everyone shopping for a new car or truck qualifies for an incentive of up to $4,500 – even if they don’t have a vehicle that qualifies under the U.S. Government’s program,” said Steven Beahm, Vice President – Sales Operations, Chrysler Group LLC. “This incentive is great in that it’s easy to understand and available to everyone.”
Chrysler's chief truck engineer, Scott Kunselman just received a huge promotion to "Head of Product Development" at the newly formed Chrysler LLC. Responsible for being the chief engineer on the new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup, Kunselman brings with him much experience in the "body on frame" department regarding trucks and SUV's and is now expected to lead all of product development. Hopefully that means more focus on the Dodge Ram and Jeep segments!
With summer just around the corner, AutoWeek magazine named the 2009 Jeep Wrangler as one of its top 10 Coolest Summer Cars for 2009. "It doesn't get any more all-American than a Jeep Wrangler,” said Dutch Mandel – Editor and Associate Publisher, AutoWeek. “And with its removable top and off-roading ability, you can drive it anywhere and have a ball doing it." Jeep Wrangler continued its strong upward sales trend for the fifth month in a row, with May 2009 sales of 9,294 units. Year-to-date, 44,080 Jeep Wranglers have been sold, up 11 percent from last year. Jeep Wrangler has a 33 percent share of the Compact SUV segment.
Chrysler LLC today announced enhanced June incentives that will appeal to what consumers want as they shop for new Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep® vehicles. “Beginning this month we are pleased to offer special finance options to our customers through our new preferred lender, GMAC Financial Services,” said Steven Landry, Executive Vice President North American Sales and Marketing, Service and Parts – Chrysler LLC. “Our dealers are now activated for retail business through GMAC Financial Services, which gives consumers more financing options as they look to purchase from our exciting line up of Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep vehicles ”
Owners of the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram and the Jeep Liberty have spoken. Owners gave top ratings to both vehicles in AutoPacific’s 2009 Vehicle Satisfaction Award research. The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram won the Large Pickup Truck category, beating the new 2009 Ford F-150, while the Jeep Liberty placed at the top of the Mid-Size Sport-Utility Vehicle (SUV) category.
Two Chrysler LLC vehicles are on AutoPacific’s survey of the most highly recommended vehicles. According to the survey released today, owners of the Dodge Nitro and the Jeep® Wrangler enjoyed their vehicles enough that they would recommend them to a friend or relative. “We are very pleased that the Dodge Nitro and the Jeep Wrangler have won high praise from their owners,” said Doug Betts, Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, Chrysler LLC. “As this study shows, owners who have confidence in their vehicles and are pleased with their ownership experience will share that message with those around them. This is further evidence that the huge improvements in quality which we have made in the last year have not gone unnoticed by our customers."
Chrysler sources close to Pickuptrucks informed Mike Levine the company may deliver a new 6.4 liter Hemi V-8 by 2011 with expected power ratings of over 450 horsepower and torque. Based off of the current 6.1 liter Hemi V-8, the new engine would be an SRT8 performance option with a "larger bore and longer stroke". The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 also may get the new motor in 2012.
According to Hubpages, Chrysler's new alliance with Italian automaker Fiat may introduce some of Fiat's vehicles here in the United States. One of those European models would be the Panda Cross 4x4, a small capable 4x4 SUV. Chrysler may introduce the vehicle in 2010 or 2011 as the 2011 Jeep Phoenix, which looks more like a cross between the Jeep Compass and a Dodge Nitro. Ugly if you ask me.
Edmunds Inside Line have uncovered information regarding the state of Jeep and the liquidation of Chrysler LLC. The liquidation reports detailed as part of Chrysler's filing of bankruptcy point at a possible deletion of the Jeep brand. "assumes that certain car lines and the plant assets supporting them will be sold as going-concern enterprises. These lines include Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Viper and Dodge Ram and Dakota truck lines". The report goes on to say "These additional costs include in excess of $100 million for signage to establish a dealer network, supplier-related costs exceeding $250 million and upwards of another $150 million in associated marketing costs to relaunch the car line. There are likely other significant costs that a potential buyer would have to incur in order to re-establish the brand. In addition, recent market experience reflected in the efforts to sell Saturn, Opel, Saab and Hummer brands indicates an extremely depressed market for stand-alone automotive brands". We think if these news breaks are indeed true and Chrysler makes these moves as stated in their bankruptcy reports, the company will fail guaranteed.
Edmunds Inside Line had the chance to play with some of Mopar's custom Jeeps, the Jeep Lower Forty and Jeep Grand Canyon II. Based off of the Jeep Wrangler platform, Chrysler designed the concepts as a way to show off Mopar's custom performance parts and accessories. Chrysler issued statements regarding their custom Jeep, "The Mopar Underground crew added the aggressive wheels and tires to a stock, two-door Wrangler Rubicon without the use of a suspension lift," and "The team's goal was to achieve added ground clearance without altering the vehicle's center of gravity. To accomplish that feat, the team trimmed copious amounts of the body and fenders to provide the needed tire clearance. Once achieved, the team used a saw to chop out 3 inches of height from the windshield frame and increased the rake by 10 degrees."
To check out the rest of their review, head on over to the Inside Line website.
Chrysler has issued another recall for their products this week, this time effecting their Jeep brand. Over 42,000 2002 to 2003 Jeep Liberty models have been recalled due to an issue with the front suspension upper control arm ball joint that may experience corrosion and separate while driving, leading to an increased risk of a crash occurring.
Additionally, over 4,300 2009 model year Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Wrangler's have also been recalled due to an issue with the vehicle's wiring under the steering column that involves the driver airbag. The module controlling the air bag may not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injuries.
Owners are encouraged to contact their local dealer as soon as possible or Chrysler directly at 800-853-1403.
Chrysler released details about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee last week and have now released concepts of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. If rumors across the web are true, the Jeep will also receive a 6.4 liter HEMI V8 which puts out over 500 horsepower and 510 foot pounds of torque and a matching all wheel drive suspension system.
Nearly 18 years ago, Jeep invented the premium SUV segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. More than 4 million sales later, Jeep improves the formula and hits the sweet spot of real-world capability and on-road refinement with the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The all-new Jeep 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 also offers improved fuel economy (up to 11 percent) and a world-class interior cabin.
Two new Jeep Wrangler J8's were spotted last week outside the American Expedition Vehicle's office in Michigan. Not available to civilians, the Jeep J8's are manufactured in Cairo, Egypt as military specification support vehicles. The J8's feature 2.8 liter four cylinder diesel motors along with full leaf sprung suspension (no coil springs like in American made Jeeps). Very cool.
New 2009 Jeep Patriot, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition models expand the fun, freedom, utility and available best-in-class 4x4 capability that Jeep is known for—now with even more customer features at a great value. The 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition models offer approximately $1,000 off popular bundled customer features, including innovative uconnect tunes, power sun roof and aluminum wheels. In total, the 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition package adds more than $2,300 in content for $1,595.
The dude in this YouTube video managed to get his Jeep stuck in mud so badly that while pulling the truck out, his entire front suspension gets twisted and ripped apart from underneath the Jeep. His buddy then yells out "Damn Dude, Holy Fuck" in reaction to the carnage. Talk about having a bad day.
Earlier this week on Tuesday we brought you Chrysler LLC's restructuring plan which includes future pickup trucks and SUV's. Two of those SUV's that are revealed in the plan are the re-designed 2010 Dodge Durango and 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee. From this new photo and previous renderings, the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee retains its current design the most. Body lines seem to be softened, and the pillars around the SUV seem to be smaller.
The J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Customer Service Index (CSI) Study released today showed that more Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge owners took their vehicles to a Chrysler LLC brand dealership rather than an after market shop for discretionary service last year than in 2007. About 69 percent visited a dealership in 2008 as compared to 63 percent in 2007, an improvement of 6 percent. In the same measure, the industry average increased 4 percent.
MBRPinc. is proud to introduce Rock Rails for Jeep Wrangler JK owners. This brand new patented design offers protection for the underside of the Jeep with a specially formed 3/16" plate. The sides of the Jeep are also protected with a mandrel-bent, heavy-gauge, full-length tube. MBRPinc. detachable steps can also be added to provide additional utility.
MBRPinc is proud to introduce a great new Roof Rack carrier system for the four-door Jeep Wrangler JK. Manufactured of tough, mandrel-bent, two-inch, heavy-walled tubing, the MBRPinc Roof Rack system is designed to easily transport heavy loads. The secret to the strength of this patented Roof Rack system is in the infrastructure that is mounted on the inside of the Jeep during installation. Specially designed hardware and precision cut gaskets go between the roof and the rack mounts during installation of the rack.
As part of Chrysler LLC's "Viability Plan" released earlier this week, the company revealed two redesigned versions of their popular Chrysler 300 and 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV. Claiming a 19 percent increase in fuel economy, the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee is expected to also debut with a "Best-in-class" interior. A possible cylinder deactivation system may also be used with the HEMI V8 engine to help contribute to the fuel mileage increase. Full concept photo inside.
Today Chrysler LLC earned two top awards from Cars.com. The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 was named “Work Truck of the Year” and the 2009 Jeep Wrangler received “Best New Car for Off-roaders.” “Cars.com’s Lifestyle Awards focus on selecting the best vehicles for different consumer lifestyles,” said Patrick Olsen, editor-in-chief at Cars.com. “When choosing our Work Truck of the Year, we look for vehicles that perform well, whether that means getting a commuter to work comfortably and efficiently or providing a hard worker with power, durability and a lot of cargo space. With impressive ride quality, a high-quality cabin and exceptional storage space, the Dodge Ram 1500 was this year’s clear winner.”
MBRPinc is proud to introduce a new Front Mounted Light Bar and Grille Guard for Jeep JK. Available this holiday season, the tough and functional Light Bar and Grille Guard is a tubular bar with a stylish black powder coat. Designed for easy installation that does not require removal of the bumper, each bar is pre-drilled for the internal wiring of the lights, and comes with two mounting tabs that will hold lights up to nine inches in diameter.
Chrysler LLC earned two top awards at this year's 13th Annual Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards. The 2009 Chrysler Town & Country was named “Automotive Loyalty Award — Minivan” for the eighth year in a row, and Jeep® Grand Cherokee took “Automotive Loyalty Award — Mid-size SUV.” "The Chrysler Town & Country being honored with its eighth consecutive award is a true testament to Chrysler's understanding of customer needs in the minivan segment," said Stephen Polk, Chairman, President and CEO of R. L. Polk Co. "The award for Jeep Grand Cherokee represents a significant milestone win for Chrysler as well, with loyalty at the highest level in the mid-size SUV category."
A little over a week ago at the Barrett Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona a classic 1951 Willys Jeep sold with a final price of $104,500 dollars. Equipped with a Gatling gun, siren, shovel and axe, the Willys Jeep is perfect for any backyard warfare you may have. Pretty cool!
After lowering costs by $3.4 billion, Chrysler LLC have now announced plans for 24 new vehicle launches from spring 2009 till 2011 which include the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango. The programs will include Chrysler's new ENVI electric vehicle program, their new "Phoenix" V6 engine and potential upgrades from Fiat who now own a 35 percent stake in Chrysler. Italian leather Grand Cherokee seats anyone?
Chrysler LLC announced today that it will offer the new "Employee Pricing Plus Plus" program to all customers toward the purchase or lease of a new 2008 or 2009 Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle. In addition to the employee price, customers will be eligible for cash discounts of up to $3,500 for 2009 model year vehicles and up to $6,000 on 2008 model year vehicles. Chrysler Financial is also offering zero percent financing to qualified customers for up to 48 months.
With the announcement of Chrysler Financial gaining access to $1.5 billion in loans from the Treasury Department, qualified new vehicle customers will be able to apply for zero percent financing for up to 60 months when financing a new Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle through Chrysler Financial. The affordable financing terms will be available on select 2008 and 2009 MY vehicles, and are effective immediately.
Car and Driver have obtained new images of the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV loaded up with camouflage. You can't see much in the photo but the re-designed Cherokee is expected to have a longer wheelbase, a longer cab to accompany a third row seat, as well as a possible HEMI V8 engine.
Jeep Patriot EV joins the growing portfolio of electric-drive vehicles being developed by Chrysler LLC. As a Range-extended Electric Vehicle, the Jeep Patriot EV combines the electric-drive components of an Electric Vehicle with a small gasoline engine and integrated electric generator to produce additional energy to power the electric-drive system when needed. This provides the positive attributes of an Electric Vehicle with the driving range equivalent to today’s gasoline-powered vehicles.
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited EV is a Range-extended Electric Vehicle that provides a glimpse into the future of a “Go Anywhere, Do Anything” vehicle with renowned Jeep Wrangler capability. “One of our goals at ENVI is to develop electric-drive solutions for every segment and for every customer,” said Lou Rhodes, President – ENVI, and Vice President – Advance Vehicle Engineering, Chrysler LLC. “An electric-drive Jeep Wrangler brings ultimate fuel efficiency and ultra-clean transportation to a market segment whose consumers want to explore the environment to the fullest.”
Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com is honoring the 2009 Jeep Wrangler in its Best Resale Value Awards as the leader in the sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment. “Sixty-eight years ago, the Wrangler created the SUV category,” said Deborah Meyer – Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Chrysler LLC. “Today, the Wrangler remains an icon in a now crowded segment, set apart by its unique, purpose-built design and its fundamental capability to go anywhere and do anything.” The two-door Jeep Wrangler remains true to its heritage as the original, extreme fun and freedom machine and is the only 4x4 convertible with multiple open-air options. The popularity of the Jeep Wrangler has never waned and is perennially a best-seller for the brand.
Chrysler LLC and the Arab American Vehicles Company (AAV) today officially announced the manufacturing launch of the Jeep J8 multipurpose vehicle at AAV's Cairo assembly plant. "We're pleased to recognize this important milestone and the role of both Chrysler and the Arab Organization for Industrialization," said Hussein Mustafa Mohamed, Chairman, Arab American Vehicles Co. "The launch of the incredibly versatile Jeep J8 and the anticipated demand for its export is an economically significant event for Egypt." The Jeep J8 marks the Jeep brand's return to commercial and military vehicle production with a thoroughly modern vehicle designed to meet the needs of both non-government organizations and government agencies.
Just in case you crawled under a rock last week and did not get the memo about our SEMA coverage, this weeks "Monday Morning Recap" is comprised of our SEMA coverage from last week including the launch of Ford's SVT Raptor F-150 and sighting of the 2009 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition. MOTORZ also launched their 13th episode, a full how-to installation of an Alpine Electronics stereo system.
For a huge list of all our SEMA blogs from last week, go to live.truckblog.com.
As 2009 model year vehicles arrive in local Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep showrooms, customers will be pleased to find that fuel economy has increased on 19 of Chrysler LLC’s car, truck and SUV models, representing 73 percent of the entire product lineup. American consumers could see savings of as much as 6.7 million gallons of fuel per year with the 2009 fuel economy improvements. “Chrysler is committed to improving fuel economy for our customers, and we consistently look at viable technologies to help us achieve that goal,” said Bob Lee, Vice-President – Powertrain Product Team. “With offerings such as our Multi-displacement System (MDS), Active Transfer Case and Front-axle Disconnect, we are able to deliver consumers fuel economy improvements in a majority of our 2009 models.”
Jalopnik got the opportunity to test drive American Expedition Vehicles' Jeep Wrangler JK packed with a HEMI V8, the same JK that can be found at the SEMA Show next week. What did Jalopnik think of this eight cylinder bad boy? "A seriously badass Wrangler" and we at Truckblog agree! The Jeep is equipped with Chrysler's 5.7 liter HEMI V*, a set of 4.88 gears, heat extractor hood, Flowmaster exhaust, and custom suspension lift. Check out their review by clicking here.
The official SEMA 2008 countdown has begun. Exactly one week from today it's going down, Truckblog.com, Las Vegas, right here, right now. A summary of Truckblog's Live Blogging can be found here.
Check out the list below of our top stories from last week:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety this week revised its crash test rating of the 2008 Jeep Patriot, upgrading the frontal crash test result to “Good,” the institute’s top rating. In addition to the top rating for frontal protection, the 2008 Jeep Patriot equipped with available front torso airbags also was rated “Good” for side impact protection and “Acceptable” for rear crash protection. Jeep Patriot was among eight small SUVs rated in an August 20, 2008, press release from the Institute.
Information has leaked on the intarweb about Chrysler LLC moving its production of its Jeep brand to the Indian manufacturing firm, Argentum Motors in the next few years. Confirmed by head of corporate communications for Argentum Motors, Colonel Bhagwhati Prasad Suman, Argentum Motors is "currently in negotiations with the Chrysler group about an outsourced manufacturing deal...to assemble larger vehicles".
Last week we bought you two new SEMA project trucks, the Turbonetics 2009 F-150 and ICON's Toyota FJ45 classic pickup truck. The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab truck was put to the test, as well as Toyota placing the Tundra Heavy Duty under its own tests of whether or not the truck will survive. General Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation both announced huge savings deals on new vehicles, and Ford's new 6.7 liter diesel engine was spotted.
One die hard enthusiast at the Bud Ward auction in Little Rock, Arkansas decided to transform his Jeep CJ-7 into the General Lee. Complete with signature orange paint, "01" numbering on the doors, "General Lee" painted text on the fenders, BFGoodrich tires, and black alloy wheels, this Jeep is definitely original. Pictures inside.
Making its debut at the 2008 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, the Jeep Patriot Back Country concept vehicle combines the fun, freedom and fuel efficiency of the Jeep Patriot with the active lifestyle of the Jeep customer to create a vehicle that exudes a fresh, youthful appeal. Created from the newest Jeep Patriot Limited model, the Jeep Patriot Back Country concept features a redesigned interior, authentic Jeep accessories by Mopar and a blend of unique materials. “The Jeep Patriot Back Country concept was inspired by the outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure, fun and freedom,” said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Design, Chrysler LLC. “Using a variety of materials typically associated with active lifestyles and a distinct color combination, the ultimate Jeep Patriot stands out in the great outdoors.”
The 2008 SEMA Show is right around the corner and we at Truckblog are anxiously awaiting it. Last week Performance West Group announced their Ford F-350 Striker pickup truck, which is one wicked ride that takes inspiration from the Shelby GT500KR muscle car. The automotive industry began to pickup again last week with updates coming from Ford, Dodge, Nissan, Jeep, and Chrysler.
Chrysler LLC announced today that the Company and its ENVI organization have new production-intent, advanced electric-drive technology packaged in three different vehicles – one for each of its brands, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge. Chrysler will select one electric-drive model to be produced in 2010 for consumers in North American markets, and European markets after 2010. Additionally, approximately 100 Chrysler electric vehicles will be on the road in government, business, utility and Chrysler development fleets in 2009. The Company said that it is well into the development of advanced, production-intent electric vehicles, and that it will apply electric-drive technology to its front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive and body-on-frame four-wheel-drive platforms in the next several years.
Staying true to its strong values and character, the Jeep brand is purpose-built for adventurous lifestyles. With 68 years of legendary 4x4 capability, the Jeep brand continues to fulfill promises of adventure, liberation, and independence for those who truly embrace life, whether traveling on- or off-road. The ruggedness and responsiveness of Jeep vehicles provide owners with a sense of security to handle any situation with confidence. “The Jeep brand’s legendary heritage has made it one of the most recognized brands in the world,” said John Plecha, Director – Jeep Marketing and Global Communications, Chrysler LLC.
After more than twenty years the historical Campagnola is back. Italy's best loved Fiat vehicle was originally produced in different versions from 1951 to 1987. The new Campagnola is part of the Iveco brand and is derived from Massif, the 4x4 off-road vehicle launched last March. Iveco is one of the few global manufacturers to offer a complete range of all-wheel-drive vehicles and with Massif the company has entered a completely new sector of professional transport for the first time offering two light off-road vehicles. Iveco Campagnola extends the range with a model specifically for passenger transport, without sacrificing the authentic off-road features behind the success of its ancestor: separate chassis, all-wheel-drive, high mobility and exceptional off-road capability. In addition to offering the qualities of comfort and driveability demanded by a modern off-road vehicle.
A reader at the popular gadget blog Gizmodo reviewed Chrysler's in car wi-fi internet service by Autonet and concluded that although the system works, it has bugs that need to be sorted out. Those bugs include its EVDO connection which constantly drops back to CDMA connectivity (old school connection), they only offer WEP security encryption which tends to be "not so" secure, and their standard plan only comes with a 1 gigabyte bandwidth cap. In today's day and age, you can suck up 1 gigabyte just by checking out our 2009 Dodge Ram photos.
Success in the work place can sometimes be hard to achieve, especially if you are not a straight shooter with your boss. Bob Slydell of "Office Space" tells us how you can become part of the "upper management" if you are like Peter Gibbons, "I'd like to move us right along to a Peter Gibbons. Now we had a chance to meet this young man, and boy that's just a straight shooter with upper management written all over him". So the question of the morning is, "are you a straight shooter with upper management written all over yourself"?
One thing is for sure, success in the work place can definitely be achieved by checking out our blogs from last week- I guarantee it. Oh by the way, did you get the memo that Truckblog.TV is now called MOTORZ?
Chrysler LLC are the latest to offer employee buyouts of more than 13,000 jobs in increased efforts to cut costs, according to Detroit News. Chrysler have not disclosed a specific "reduction target" but officials stated they would like to eliminate at least 2,000 jobs in the near future. The cut comes in addition to the already announced 1,000 collar jobs cut to be made by the end of this month. "The latest buyout offers reflect very weak auto sales this summer" said Gregg Lemos Stein, an analyst for the Standard and Poor's rating agency. "It's very difficult for the automakers, obviously. They've had tremendous cash outflows despite their abilities to cut costs". Chrysler said of the 13,800 workers, all are eligible for the offers that will be rolled out in announcements next week.
We originally brought you the details about the Jeep J8 a year ago but now the heavy duty version of the Jeep Wrangler equipped for a war zone is officially available throughout the world in Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. Engineered directly for military and privatized security needs, the J8 comes with a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with enough power to get you through just about anything. If you happen to be turned on by one of these extreme Jeeps, head on over to www.Jeep.com for more information. Reported by Allpar.
Chrysler’s ‘Shop ’til You Drive Sales Event’ continues through Sept. 30, offering up to 40 percent off MSRP on select vehicles, and zero percent APR for 72-months on the 2008 Dodge Ram, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Commander. Especially strong values are available on Dodge Ram pickup trucks, with up to $9,000 discounts in select markets.
Chrysler LLC has become the first automaker to offer Wi-Fi internet beginning last week on August 25. Selling the service and unit through their parts division, Mopar, the internet is accessed through a Wi-Fi hot spot which runs off of Chrysler's Uconnect web service that utilizes a EV-DO cellular connection. Essentially you are using a broadband connection, the same as cellular network connections. The actual device was developed by Autonet Mobile, whom supply the unit to Chrysler. Autonet Mobile CEO Sterling Pratz stated...
Just like the scene from "Office Space" where Drew talks about a particular person showing their "OH" face, Truckblog.TV HD is guaranteed to make you show your "OH" face. Check it out at hd.truckblog.tv on Apple iTunes. Here's our wrath from last week, just in case you missed it.
EarthRoamer combines Jeep's legendary off road capability with innovative EarthRoamer design to create an Xpedition Vehicle (XV) with unprecedented capability. Now you can go anywhere a Jeep will go and have all of the comforts of home when you get there including: an inside toilet and shower, queen size bed and a refrigerator freezer. The EarthRoamer XV-JP provides everything needed for extended camping in remote locations. Built on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4WD Unlimited platform with electric front and rear locking differentials and electric sway bar disconnect, the XV-JP provides trail performance that is unmatched by any traditional RV. The EarthRoamer XV-JP will carry two people over the tightest and toughest trails and provide a comfortable camping experience once you reach your destination.
Jeep have begun production again at their Toledo, Ohio plant after being shut down for two months from a mandatory downtime set earlier this year. The plant will be expected to take another four weeks off by the end of the year as mandatory shut downs beginning the week of September 22, October 27, and two weeks in November. The reasoning for all of this madness? Slow sport utility vehicle sales. The Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro have been hit the hardest with a status quo shift to more fuel efficient vehicles, but the Jeep Wrangler four door is still selling strong and continues to be the brands "bread-and-butter" model.
Do you share the same tag line "Work Sucks" as the 1999 movie "Office Space" does? We're sorry if you feel this way about your job, but one thing that definitely does not suck is our Truckblog.TV podcast on iTunes. Be sure to check out our latest episode as it will make work suck less and allow you to use the free bandwidth at the office. Here's the re-cap from last week.
Chrysler LLC is planning to build car-based sport utility vehicles (think uni-body) rather than heavier, truck based versions with separate frames. The conversion will cost Chrysler $1.8 billion to re-design, develop, and expand its assembly plants in Detroit, Michigan which currently manufacture the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Expected to land in dealer showrooms in 2010, the new sport utilities will retain the Grand Cherokee name, according to Chrysler President, Tom LaSorda. "This new product will allow the consumer to keep all attributes of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. They won't be able to navigate the Rubicon trail but they will get to the grocery store on less fuel".
Automakers are improving the crashworthiness of their vehicles and quickly installing side airbags and electronic stability control, an important crash avoidance feature, on more models. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently completed front, side, and rear crash test evaluations of 8 small SUV models. For the first time, every model the Institute tested comes equipped with electronic stability control as standard equipment. Check out the graded chart inside.
MBRPinc is proud to introduce a new line of performance exhaust systems for the 2005-2008 model year Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.7L and 5.7L Hemi. MBRPinc gives you a new three-inch mandrel-bent exhaust pipe and specially designed, high-flow muffler that provide maximum airflow for the best in performance, sound, and fuel efficiency. Choose from the Pro Series (T304 stainless – lifetime warranty), the XP Series (T409 stainless – lifetime warranty) or the Installer Series (heavy-duty aluminized steel – three-year warranty). Each system selection comes complete with a mirror polished T304 stainless tip to perfectly complete the system of your choice.
Chrysler LLC’s Jeep brand has a solution for sport-utility vehicle customers seeking relief from high gas prices and economic uncertainty – the Jeep Patriot. A study by Edmunds.com reveals that the Jeep Patriot is the least expensive SUV to own at 48.6 cents per mile. “In difficult periods like this, it is vital that we continue to evolve our products to exceed customers’ needs and Jeep Patriot does just that,” said Robert Hegbloom, Senior Manager – Jeep Brand Marketing. “By providing great fuel economy, performance, handling and flexibility, all at an affordable price, the Jeep Patriot is a tremendous value.”
Chrysler is considering on moving production at their Toledo North Assembly Plant to a four day work week to help save on "both energy and fuel costs, while also giving employees an extra day to relax". A Chrysler spokesperson stated in an interview "the company is exploring the possibility of switching the nearly 3,800 Jeep campus employees from five eight hour days to four ten hour days" and that "employees would be off Friday through Sunday", however no official decision has been made yet. As reported by ABClocal.
When you attended your "Monday meeting" this morning did your boss ask everyone "is this good for the company?" in reference to any negative actions that occurred around the workplace lately, just like Bill Lumbergh does in "Office Space"? Searching for the latest apps on iTunes for your iPhone or checking your email for hours on end may be not be the best, but subscribing and watching our Truckblog.TV podcast and reading through our best blogs of last week certainly won't hurt the company at all.
Jeep has leaked photos of the 2009 Jeep Patriot and Compass sport utility vehicles inside the 2009 Mopar Accessory brochure. Chrysler went ahead and redesigned the upper areas of the dashboards, as well as added what appear to be heated seats as options for the twin sport utility vehicles. Check out the photos inside.
As the market makes a shift from leasing to retail purchasing, Chrysler LLC today announced that in August the Company will repackage its incentives to make purchasing a vehicle more affordable than ever. The new strategy includes 72-month finance deals on an expanded range of compact, mid-size and full-size vehicles. The program creates retail payments similar to 36-month lease payments, and lower than previously offered finance payments. With these new incentive offers, customers can get lower payments with the benefits of ownership.
Is that no talent ass clown in the cubical next to you listening to the radio loudly while you are trying to collate information, just like Peter Gibbons experienced in "Office Space"? Unfortunately right now, the time is 9:00 AM and he is allowed to listen to the radio from 9 till 11. That gives you a two hour time frame to check out Truckblog.TV and read through the list of blogs below from last week.
Rancho Suspension have released their 2007 to 2008 Jeep JK Wrangler Short Arm Suspension system. Designed to fit up to 37 inch tires on both the 2 and 4 door models, the kit includes a new forged pitman arm, performance exhaust, adjustable upper arms for the front and rear, lower two inch DOM tube radius arms, industry first composite rod ends with high-misalignment's and patented high-articulation bushings, brackets, coil springs, relocation brackets and more.
MBRPinc is proud to introduce a new performance exhaust system application for the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0-liter Turbo Diesel. This MBRPinc filter-back performance exhaust system has smooth mandrel bends and reduced bend-degree angles to provide maximum airflow for the best in performance, sound and fuel efficiency. Choose from the Pro Series (T304 stainless – lifetime warranty), the XP Series (T409 stainless – lifetime warranty) or the Installer Series (heavy-duty aluminized steel – three-year warranty).
Did you have a severe road rage incident while driving to work this morning just like Samir Nainanajad does in the beginning of the comedy movie "Office Space"? Now that you are at work and have hopefully cooled down before receiving your TPS reports (you can go ahead and ignore them), take some time to check out our big blogs from last week, then watch the best of Office Space on YouTube so that you understand all of my Office Space references I've made every Monday morning for the past six months. Once you are done with that, please subscribe to our free podcast on iTunes and check out our latest Truckblog.TV episode.
Inside Line placed the 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4x4 under a vigorous 15,000 mile test, pushing the Jeep against all odds as a daily driver and an off-roading king. "It drives like a Wrangler off-road and on, and this ride isn't for everyone". Equipped with a 3.8 liter six cylinder motor that "proved to be a letdown during our full test", Edmunds' test shows the true colors and not-s-lavish lifestyle of the rugged Jeep. Click here to read their full review.
Has the boss approached you yet this morning about the missing cover sheet on your TPS reports? Did you see the memo about Truckblog.TV and Apple iTunes within those reports? Just in case you haven't yet, check out the TPS report here, which lists information about our free podcast on iTunes. Click the subscribe button within iTunes and help support Truckblog. Positive feedback and comments are appreciated too! As Bill Lumberg from "Office Space" says, "If you could make sure you do that from now on, that would be grrrreeeat....and i'll make sure you get another copy of that memo, Mmmmkay?".
There's also another memo about reading the top blogs from last week but that can come second, after subscribing to our podcast. Educate below.
MBRPinc, is proud to introduce a new performance exhaust system the 2007-2008, 3.8L V6 Jeep Wrangler JK. This sleek cat-back system is perfect for street or off-road applications, and with the fully mandrel bent 2.5-inch pipe and high-flow muffler it provides maximum exhaust flow and a rich, mellow sound. Choose from the XP Series (T409 stainless – lifetime warranty), or the Installer Series (heavy-duty aluminized steel – three year warranty).
The Jeep J8 multipurpose vehicle made its first appearance at a consumer event during Euro Camp Jeep 2008 in Northern Germany. The J8 marks the Jeep brand's return to commercial and military vehicle production with a thoroughly modern vehicle designed to meet the needs of both non-government organizations and government agencies. "The new Jeep J8 combines the legendary capability and dependability that makes the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited famous with unmatched cargo capacity and an exceptional towing rating," said Thomas Hausch, Vice President – International Sales, Chrysler LLC.
Don't you hate it when you are stuck in bumper to bumper traffic on your way to work and there's some no talent ass clown blasting his stereo so loud even the dead can hear it? Plus they are rapping words such as "I got this killa up inside of me...I can't talk to my mother so I talk to my diary". That incident happens to be one of my favorite scenes from the movie, "Office Space". If you have not seen it, click here for the YouTube link.
An alternative idea for dealing with the situation is to throw a brick at their window check out the list of last week's blogs at www.Truckblog.com via your new Apple iPhone 3G you desperately waited in line all day for over the weekend, or watch our latest Truckblog.TV video on iTunes from your laptop while stuck in traffic. Check out the list below.
MBRPinc is proud to introduce a new line of performance exhaust systems for the inline-four 2.5L or the inline-six 4.0L, 1997-2006 model-year Jeep Wrangler TJ. Choose from the XP Series (T409 stainless – lifetime warranty) or the Installer Series (heavy-duty aluminized steel – three-year warranty). Each comes complete with a mirror-polished T304 stainless tip for your side-exit system.
Mike Levine got the chance to talk to Ralph Gilles, vice president of Jeep and truck design, about the Jeep J8 military-grade concept. Powered by a VM Moturi's 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, the small J8 is capable of tackling any terrain you can throw at it. You can check out Mike's video inside.
Today's consumers are passionate about staying in touch and want to be connected no matter where they are – home, work, school or vehicle. To focus on the experience and connect customers to the things that matter the most, Chrysler LLC will now bundle innovative consumer technologies under one umbrella name – "uconnect." The function of the feature is directly in the name – uconnect phone, uconnect tunes, uconnect gps, uconnect studios and uconnect web. "We set out to connect customers to the things that matter most to them," said Deborah Meyer, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer – Chrysler LLC. "The role for 'uconnect' in the 2009 model year places the focus on the customer experience and how the features will make their life easier."
As Chrysler LLC goes green, customers will save some “green.” Chrysler announced today that it is pricing its full-size 4x4 sport-utility vehicle (SUV) hybrid electric vehicles nearly $8,000 below the competition. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the new 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI® Hybrid is $45,340, including $800 for destination. The MSRP for the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid is $45,570, including $800 for destination. Additionally, customers are expected to receive an estimated tax credit of $1,800.
Attention all you GearheadZ out there! Due to the overwhelming popularity of Stacey David's GearZ, SPEED TV recently announced their first marathon airing of GearZ on Sunday, July 6th beginning at 10:30 A.M. EST, and running through 3:30 P.M. with 11 back to back episodes! For those of you who can't get enough of Stacey's affable personality, and easy to understand, hands-on approach to everything automotive, this marathon's for you! Whether you're a novice, a weekend tinkerer or a high-end automotive restorer, end your fourth of July weekend with Stacey, and get ready to go out and build something!
Linear Logic of Mesa, Arizona are making it easier for you to increase your fuel economy with the ScanGauge II, a gas-saving gadget that connects directly to your Diagnostics System (OBDII port), and gives you instant feedback from your engine. Working on nearly all post-1996 vehicles, the ScanGauge II features a LCD read out that can display up to four engine and vehicle parameters at one time, leaving you with dozens of parameter combination's.
Griffin Technology, maker of all things iPod, announced WindowSeat, Griffin's windshield mount for iPhone. With Apple's recent announcement of mapping service to iPhone, WindowSeat puts your device at eye level on your car's windshield with street maps, directions and more, safely in view and within reach. WindowSeat's mounting bracket holds your iPhone securely, while its corner-release tab lets you easily remove your device when you arrive at your destination, leaving WindowSeat locked in position for the next time you use it.
Driven by more consistent, leaner processes and buyouts of tens of thousands workers, the Detroit Three automakers in 2007 nearly erased the productivity deficit against their Japanese-based competitors, despite declining production and shrinking market share. The difference among the Big Six from the most to least productive in terms of total manufacturing labor (Assembly, Stamping, Engine and Transmission) has dropped to 3.50 hours per vehicle (or about $260 per vehicle), down from 10.51 hours (or $790 per vehicle) in 2003. Chrysler showed the biggest improvement, cutting its total manufacturing labor hours per vehicle by 7.7% to 30.37, the same number recorded by Toyota, according to Oliver Wyman's The Harbour Report North America 2008, the annual study released today.
The California Truck Jamboree Plus & Moto-Palooza show will be arriving at the end of the month. Combining two shows into one, the one day event will be held on June 29th, 2008 at Hidden Valley Park in Irvine, California. The Truck Jamboree Plus will feature hotrods, custom and classic cars, pickup trucks, heavy duty trucks, motorcycles and more. There will also be "Shocker" the monster truck, live music and more. The show runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and adult spectator tickets are just $15 and children under 12 are FREE with a paid admission. Also, there is free parking. For more information, check out the Truck Jam website at www.TruckJamPlus.com.
Edmunds Inside Line have posted their review of the 2008 Hennessey Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT530 (try to say that fast 3 times). While the Hennessey looks and sounds menacing, you may have to sell your family to help pay for the price of fuel for this gas guzzling SUV. With an all wheel drive, 530 horse power 6.1 liter V8 engine that launches zero to sixty miles per hour in a mere 4.6 seconds, AND does the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds, we hope that gas mileage is of unimportance to the lucky owner.
By combining high-sensitivity GPS technology with the wireless data capabilities of the cellular telephone system, GPS Snitch provides real-time location tracking over the internet. GPS Snitch is completely self-contained, requires no installation, and is small enough to be hidden within any car, truck, motorcycle, ATV or snowmobile.
ATX Group, the world's largest independent telematics services provider to the automotive industry, today announced an initiative with the Detroit-based Connected Vehicle Trade Association (CVTA) to convene an international work group to address how to safely access internet content through embedded and nomadic devices in vehicles. ATX, as the convenor of the working group, and CVTA will launch an immediate effort to invite automobile manufacturers and interested parties in the automotive electronics value chain to participate in an open discussion and process for setting requirements for in-vehicle Web browsing.
Leading truck cap and tonneau cover manufacturer A.R.E. delivers total in-bed organizational solutions that can help fleet owners lower operating costs while remaining productive. "In today's environment of rising fuel prices and a slowing economy, many fleet managers are undoubtedly searching for ways to curb their operating costs, including switching from large, gas-guzzling vehicles to smaller pickup trucks," said Jim Blayne, sales manager for A.R.E.'s commercial and fleet division.
With gas prices exceeding $3.65 per gallon on average, filling up could cost upwards of $50, $60, $70 or more. Goodwrench offers consumers helpful tips to improve vehicle fuel economy and help drivers get every possible mile out each drop of gasoline. One of the simplest ways of doing this is with proper vehicle maintenance and sensible driving techniques.
Just like the scene from Office Space when Dom Portwood asks Peter if he received the memo about his TPS reports, today I ask you Truckblog fans, did you get that memo from last week about Truckblog TV and our other huge stories? If you didn't, below is a list of our top blogs from last week for you to read this Monday morning. "So if you could just remember to do that from now on, that'd be great. All right!".
In response to direct customer feedback citing the prospect of rising gas prices as a top concern, Chrysler LLC today announces its own economic stimulus package: an exclusive gas price protection policy that eliminates the risk of further spikes in fuel prices. With the U.S. purchase of eligible Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles, customers can enroll in the “Let’s Refuel America” program and receive a gas card that immediately lowers their gas price to $2.99 a gallon, and keeps it there for three years. The offer is available at 3,511 U.S. Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships through June 2, 2008, and is available on vehicles ranging from popular new compacts, crossovers and minivans to full-size diesel-powered pickup trucks.
Edmund's Inside Line have posted their thorough review of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4 CRD SUV. Earning an average of 19.3 miles per gallon, the new diesel powered Jeep Grand Cherokee serves as a perfect replacement for it's V8 SRT8 cousin, which only boasts a hefty 13.4 miles per gallon. Another advantage of the new 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee's diesel engine is it's price, at only $1,655 which is far cheaper than it's full size heavy duty pickup truck brothers. The bottom line of the new Cherokee is that it provides an "Affordable diesel option [that] makes the Grand Cherokee a far more practical proposition". Click here to read their review.
In an article by US News, with gas prices climbing past the $4.00 dollar per gallon mark nation wide, SUV trade in values and sales have fallen over 14 percent in March alone, compared to the same time one year ago. The SUV used car sales have been so bad, that some dealers have been forced to sell them overseas, facing expensive transportation costs and little profit. Al Johnson of AutoNation's Maroone Nissan in Pembroke, Florida said "the dealership had been exporting about one car a month" in recent years, but this year they average roughly 10".
In an article by BusinessWeek, Americans are now consuming less gasoline, resulting in less vehicles on the road due to high gasoline prices. In a study conducted in Palm Beach County, Florida, for the past 20 years, workers have been counting vehicles with special sensors to monitor their activity. Nearly every year since the study started, the number of vehicles on the road has risen at least 2 percent annually. However in 2007, traffic levels noticed a decline, and so far for 2008 are down 7.5 percent.
Andrew Posner of TreeHugger.com says that the price for a gallon of gas is selling for around $3.00 per gallon in New Jersey, a price that is lower than the nations average of $3.51. Why, you ask? Here's your answer. "New Jersey has the nation’s third-lowest gasoline tax, at 14.5 cents a gallon, and it hasn’t gone up in almost two decades".
Just in case that "PC Load Letter" error is getting you down this morning, we have composed a list of last week's top blogs to make you happy again. Especially the 2010 Ford F-150 4.4 Liter Diesel pictures! Check out the full list below.
“Go Ahead Punk… Make My Day!”… Imagine this familiar voice sounding out from under the hood of your ride; or you pull up in front of your girlfriend’s house and announce your arrival with “I Got You Babe”, or you are out on your boat and you press a button on your FX-550 and – all around you can hear the theme song from “Jaws”. With Horntones the possibilities are endless.
Check out the YouTube video inside! Install article and full review, coming soon.
