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2006 North American International Auto Show Roundup: Day One
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| Dodge Challenger Concept |
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Chrysler Groups' first press conference of the 2006 NAIAS brought warmth onto the Detroit's Cobo Hall stage with two top industry executives, two of the country's design teams led by Chrysler senior design guru Trevor Creed, and two of the most exciting concept cars this year's international show will unveil. A skit with Tom LaSorda, Chrysler Group President and CEO officially accepting the reins (and a memorable collection of hats from previous auto show stunts from around the world) from Dieter Zetsche, Chairman and CEO of DaimlerChrysler AG, was memorable and lighthearted for journalists who will see dozens of new models introduced over a three-day time span, but it was the memorable sheetmetal icons from 30 to forty years ago that truly raised the heat. TheChrysler Imperial Concept took an enthusiastic second place to the recreation of a pony car that muscled up to the brawny, big boys of the early seventies-the Dodge Challenger Concept. But, even further flavor and pizzaz was added to the stage when Desperate Housewives actress Eva Longoria lusted after the concepts--instead of the presenters. I'm desperate for one of these," enthused Longoria, pointing to the new cars.
Based on the 1970 Dodge Challenger, the new hip-looking performance coupe was penned in Chrysler's West Coast Pacifica design studios and rides on Chrysler's LX platform that also founds the Charger, Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300. So far this RWD architecture has proven immensely popular, especially when combined with Chrysler?s V8 Hemi engine. What?s even better about the two-door concept, shown in day-glow orange with black carbon fiber exposed striping on the long hood, is that the standard 5.7-liter 340 hp Hemi is replaced by a 6.1-liter version putting out 425 horsepower. Paying homage to the past is a pistol grip that sits on the shifter of the concept's 6-speed manual transmission, but modern-day technology abounds, punctuated on the outside by a rear light panel illuminated by diffused neon technology. The concepts rides on a 116-inch wheelbase, six inches longer than the original icon, but is more squat as it sits two inches wider and has a higher 'thrust" line running in a horizontal arch through the fender and door to its kickup just in front of the rear wheel.. The retro concept has 5-spoke 20-inch chrome wheels, while the driver-oriented interior has a ribbed steering wheel. With Ford revealing the Shelby GT500 Mustang and Chevy a new Camaro at this year's NAIAS, the Challenger concept represents Dodge's desire to maintain muscle car superiority. Photos by Ron Perry
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