AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 9 The Chrysler Crossfire concept car features a sophisticated design blending traditional European proportions and handling characteristics with the power and personality of an American performance car.

"The Crossfire concept provides a new image for Chrysler, combining American power with international flair," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Product Design, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

"The expressive execution of this small coupe is tangible proof of our capability to elevate and broaden the Chrysler brand.  From its distinct design to its potent powertrain and suspension, this modern American coupe is set to impress enthusiasts around the world."

A classic, clean design with a decidedly youthful flavor is reflected in the concept's sleek, athletic lines.  The sculptured hood focuses attention on the Chrysler winged badge and new grille.

Built as a one-piece carbon fiber body on an all-aluminum frame, the Crossfire's design seems to be more architectural than traditionally automotive.  Similar to the Chrysler Atlantic concept car shown first in 1995, a center peak line, or "spine," runs the length of the car and works with the dynamic character lines to give the Chrysler Crossfire its chiseled appearance.  Its compact body suggests a low center of gravity and stable stance with a long wheelbase (102.6 inches, 2606 mm) and wide track (58.3 inches, 1481 mm front, 59.9 inches, 1521 mm rear).

Highlighted by brushed aluminum details, the Crossfire's exterior design features a "boat tail" emphasizing the rear wheels, tires and wide fenders, which is a new direction for the Chrysler brand.

Artistically inspired shapes continue in the wheels, as the eight-spoke design reinforces the vehicle's sure-footed, grounded look.  The concept is executed in a "Sapphire Silver Pearl" finish with "Starbrite Silver" accents.

"If we were to build it, I feel sure that this could be an instant classic," said Creed.

"The Crossfire provides the performance and precise handling that would make this concept a real contender on the street or on the track," said exterior designer Eric Stoddard.  "The inspiration stemmed from a desire to blend pure sculpture with technology.  We designed the Crossfire for anyone who is looking for the thrill of driving.  It's light, nimble and powerful with an expressive personality."

The Chrysler Crossfire is powered by a supercharged 2.7-liter, 275 horsepower (205 kW), 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nm) V-6 engine coupled to a five-speed manual transmission.  The custom independent short-and-long-arm front and rear suspension uses coil springs placed over the shock absorbers.  Nineteen-inch front wheels with P255/40R19 tires and 21-inch rear wheels with P295/35R21 tires provide the ride and handling expected from a classic rear-wheel-drive coupe.  The Crossfire is estimated to achieve 60 mph (97 kph) in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 148 mph (238 kph).

"The Chrysler Crossfire was engineered with performance and artistic expression in mind," said Stoddard.  "The powertrain and suspension system validate the concept's personality as an agile athlete, while design features beg for individual interpretation.  Its design forces people to react and reflect simultaneously."

The Crossfire's sophisticated interior complements its exterior.  The interior design effort was lead by Glenn Abbott, who said he aspired to create the feeling of a stylish sports coupe with a sense of control, accuracy and simplicity.

"I was able to give it a serious, enthusiast's appeal, yet add significant character to it," said Abbott.  "That's most evident in the design of the carefully crafted instrument panel gauges, as well as the shape of the steering wheel and seats."

The Crossfire houses an on-board vehicle data acquisition center.  This Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) captures vehicle performance information and displays it on a passenger-side liquid crystal display.  "We like to refer to this as the 'G-Meter,'" said Abbott.

Appealing to the true enthusiast, the EVIC measures such factors as acceleration, lap time and g-forces, allowing the driver to assess and, thereby enhance the vehicle's optimal performance.

A true two-seater, the Crossfire features electronically adjustable competition seats, manually adjustable pedals and integrated trunk space for two helmets, which further emphasize this concept's spirited theme. Crossfire's interior sports a rich spectrum of colors and materials, accented by a two-tone "Deep Sapphire Blue" and "Cedar Tan" leather interior, featuring a brushed aluminum spine-like center console and brushed accents on the steering wheel.

"The Chrysler Crossfire concept perfectly harmonizes international flair with modern American design," concluded Creed.

Chrysler Crossfire Preliminary Specifications

SOURCE: Chrysler