Chrysler concepts grab headlines

CHRYSLER underlined its reputation for having the most impressive designs in America by wheeling out four stunning new concept cars in Detroit.

Perhaps the most eye-catching was one which may well make it into production - the Dodge Viper GTS/R.

Design chief Mr Tom Gale described the muscle-bound GTS/R as "essentially a street-legal race car" but he conceded it may point the way to the next generation Viper, the oldest production model in the DaimlerChrysler line-up.

The Viper GTS/R features a one-piece carbon fibre body with wild aerodynamics, a chassis which sits five centimetres lower than the production model, massive wheels and brakes and enough power for the car to thunder from 0-100km/h in less than four seconds.

Another concept car which could reach production within the next few years is the head-turning Chrysler Hemi 300, a sleek four- seat convertible that could become the brand's image leader.

With a 353 horsepower V8 engine driving the rear wheels, the 300 Hemi accelerates to 100km/h in about six seconds and features a pop-up rollbar.

Mr Gale believes the car could slip into the DC line-up between the $US40,000 Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster and the $US20,000 Chrysler Sebring, the top-selling convertible in the US.

The most experimental of the four vehicles displayed was the Jeep Varsity which features a more sedan-like interior than a conventional Jeep but could be built using many Grand Cherokee parts.

DaimlerChrysler president Mr James Holden played down speculation the Varsity could slip into an expanded Jeep line-up.

The fourth model on display was the Dodge MAXXcab which follows the trend towards pickup vehicles with more car-like interiors and handling.

Mr Gale said the arched roof and "family oriented interior" resulted in a "passenger-priority truck".

The rear section of the cabin features three integrated child safety seats which cater for children of all ages, who can be monitored from the front by a small overhead "kid-view" camera.

The children are kept entertained in the rear by an entertainment system with DVD player, Internet access and a handheld computer sketch pad.