Chrysler Java Design Study Introduces 'Passenger Priority Design'

14 September 1999

FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 14 – DaimlerChrysler today took the wraps off a design study, the Chrysler Java*, at the Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung in Frankfurt, Germany.

Conveying American optimism, the Chrysler Java show car represents a fresh design approach to an important European market segment.  With its clean, yet refined and elegant "one box" profile, Java's "Passenger Priority Design" makes maximum use of its exterior dimensions.  Java's interior package is actually comparable to that of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, yet is 50 centimeters (20 inches) shorter at only 3,77 meters (148 inches).

"Taking cues from DaimlerChrysler's signature MPV and sport-utility vehicle design, this moves cab-forward design to the next level," said Tom Gale, Executive Vice President Chrysler Product Development, Design and Passenger Car Operations.  "This show car features what we call 'Passenger Priority Design' with tall architecture and Panoramic Seating for driver and passengers, allowing higher H-points to give them more of an in-control feeling compared to other small cars.  In fact, the rear passengers are sitting higher than the front passengers, creating an automotive form of theater seating."

Java's unique Panoramic Seating with high H-points enhances visibility, comfort, space and ease of entry and exit for both driver and passengers.

Additional interior space was achieved by moving the windshield forward and keeping the car's front and rear overhang to a minimum.  Java's interior is practical and flexible yet decidedly upscale and comfortable.  Said Gale:  "This being the first time we created a distinct Chrysler-branded design study for Europe, we had to make sure that Java conveys a sense of solidity and looks and feels like a Chrysler."

"Java signifies the Chrysler brand's commitment to the compact segment in Europe.  Although the vehicle is a pure design study with no production plans, it does convey a strong corporate message that DaimlerChrysler is serious about growing its market share in that segment.  Java shows off design cues that could make it into a future Chrysler car."

The design of the Chrysler Java is almost architectural, rather than automotive.  Its classic architectural proportions are complemented by dynamic contemporary character lines.  A single low egg crate grille conveys Chrysler's sophisticated lineage and performance character.  Its chiseled compact body lends substance and visual weight, suggesting a low center of gravity and stable stance with a long wheelbase (2,49 meters/98.3 inches) and wide track (1,50 meters/59.1 inches front, 1,49 meters/58.7 inches rear).

Tall upright tail lamps provide a unique rear signature and maximum visibility in congested European city traffic.  Java's athletic exterior design is rounded off by prominent, detailed head lamps, taut body side surfacing and large, mechanically inspired 18-inch wheels.  The show car features a new light green silver metallic finish.  "As small as it is, Java looks substantial, grown-up and sophisticated," said Gale.

This visual language is carried on in the interior.  Inspired by Swedish furniture showrooms, Java's spacious interior sports a lighter palate in colors and materials.  Featured are brushed aluminum, chrome, cream and light green leather and curly maple wood.  Enhancing Java's performance character, the gauge cluster has a unique three-dimensional execution.

"In giving Java's interior a tailored look and feel with great detailing, we reinforced the upscale Chrysler lineage," said John Herlitz, Senior Vice President Design.  "Java shows that a compact car can have an attractive and rich interior.  Added to that, the Panoramic Seating and light colors give the interior a bigger feel."  Java has front bucket seats and a 60/40 split-fold rear bench.

Kevin Verduyn, Senior Design Manager at DaimlerChrysler's Pacifica Advanced Product Design Center in Carlsbad, California, was responsible for the Java project.  "Java is the logical follow-up to previous design studies such as the Pronto and CCV.  We were looking for the most efficient yet stylish way to move four people around in a sub-four-meter car."

"The design was completed just before the DaimlerChrysler merger was announced.  In the fabrication phase, in which we actually start the construction of the show car, we were able to include our merger partner and achieve substantial synergies by using their knowledge and resources," Verduyn added.  "Since this is a design study, we had the freedom to use European-based DaimlerChrysler components such as the powertrain, transaxle and suspension on the Java.  By working together on the components, the result was a much faster completion of the show car."

Java is powered by a 60 kW (80 bhp)/130 Nm (95 lb.-ft.) 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine coupled to a five-speed manual transaxle.  The front suspension incorporates wishbones, MacPherson struts, double-tube shock absorbers and a torsion-bar stabilizer.  Trailing links with coil springs with single-tube shock absorbers and a torsion-bar stabilizer make up the rear suspension.  Java rolls on P185/50R18 tires on 18"x6" wheels.

Chrysler Java Design Study

Essential Specifications

* Java is a trademark or registered trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.  Sun Microsystems, Inc. did not participate in the design or development of this DaimlerChrysler vehicle, nor does the vehicle contain any software or hardware manufactured  or sold by SunMicrosystems.

SOURCE: Chrysler