Chrysler LLC will introduce a wide array of new, innovative and — in most cases — industry-first technologies, all designed to enhance the customer experience, the company announced here today at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) World Congress.

“Chrysler has always been known as an engineering company, and the announcement of these features coming to our lineup in 2009 further drives that point home,” said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler LLC. “In today’s market, Chrysler’s mission is to bring innovation to market more quickly, ultimately resulting in more customer satisfaction and convenience. Each of these unique Chrysler technologies delivers on that mission.”

Included in the new technologies are an in-vehicle wireless Internet connectivity system, Rear Cross Path and Blind Spot Monitoring systems, a uniquely combined active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system, and a host of in-vehicle connectivity and entertainment systems that offer added customer benefit and convenience.

In-vehicle wireless Internet connectivity
Chrysler is diligently working on an advanced, in-vehicle wireless system to provide increased security and convenience far beyond anything available today. The system will provide high-speed data transfer and convenience, combining WiFi and 4G connectivity for a new level of wireless technology.

This system will transform the vehicle into a “hot spot” to deliver Internet and e-mail access, and movie and music download capability directly to the vehicle.

While Chrysler will offer this technology in future model-year vehicles, an aftermarket in-vehicle “hot-spot” wireless Internet capability is planned through Mopar® in 2008.

Rear Cross Path
An industry exclusive, Chrysler’s Rear Cross Path system warns drivers who are backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle, but outside the driver’s field of vision. Drivers are notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind their vehicle via an illuminated icon on the sideview mirror, and with an audible chime. Rear Cross Path operates any time the vehicle is in Reverse.

Rear Cross Path will be available on the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

Blind Spot Monitoring
Chrysler’s Blind Spot Monitoring system aids drivers when changing lanes if being passed by vehicles or when vehicles are positioned in the blind spot zone. Drivers are notified of a potential hazard via an illuminated icon on the sideview mirror, and if the turn signal is operated, an audible chime can act as an additional warning. Blind Spot Monitoring – which uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors – is active any time the vehicle is moving forward.

Blind Spot Monitoring will be available on the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan. No other minivan on the market offers this technology.