Last month, the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety complained that the SUV’s fuel tank extends below the rear bumper and is inadequately protected from crashes and rollovers, the trade paper said. The vehicle’s fuel filler neck also tears off in crashes, said the center’s petition for an investigation and recall, the Automotive News reported.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is deciding whether enough evidence exists to support opening an investigation of the 3 million Jeep vehicles whose models fall within the 11-year period, the agency said on its Web site, the paper noted. NHTSA’s “defect petition,” which began Friday, Nov. 6, can take months or even years, the story said.

In a statement, Chrysler said it is aware of the defect petition and “will cooperate fully with NHTSA’s investigation process.”

“Chrysler Group is confident that a study which considered all factors in all collisions—including rear collisions with fire—would show that the 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees perform as well as or better than other vehicles in their class,” the statement said. “The 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards and has an excellent safety record.” (Automotive News)

“With nearly 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is a true global icon that has provided consumers a real sense of freedom and adventure from the very beginning,” Mike Manley, President and CEO—Jeep Brand, said. “The new Jeep campaign reinforces this idea, with a fresh new look, feel and attitude. We believe there is a little bit of Jeep inside everyone. Deep down, to some degree, everyone wants to seize every moment and live life to the fullest. This campaign gets to the core of those emotions, effectively communicating that unique ‘Jeep spirit.’”

The new campaign introduces the Jeep brand’s new tagline—“I live. I ride. I am. Jeep.”—which reflects the “Jeep philosophy” of living life on one’s own terms. To showcase that new attitude, the print creative features white backgrounds, suggesting openness and conveying the idea of freedom. The television creative uses nontraditional imagery to communicate how Jeep vehicles can take consumers from everyday life to something more extraordinary.

“Our strategy with the new campaign is to embrace our loyal core enthusiasts, while igniting the Jeep spirit and passion for adventure in a broader audience,” Manley said.

Phase One
The goal of the first phase of the new Jeep campaign, created by Southfield, Mich.-based GlobalHue, is to educate consumers by generating awareness and interest in the “Jeep philosophy” for living, while re-establishing the brand with a new look, feel and attitude. The first phase of the new campaign introduces the tagline, “I live. I ride. I am. Jeep.” The creative focuses on the unique visual appeal of the brand’s vehicles by capturing them in unexpected ways, to create mystery and intrigue.

Phase Two
In the second phase, the focus will shift to consumers, in addition to vehicles. The campaign will further establish the consumer/brand connection via lifestyle engagement, appeal to a broad spectrum of the buying public and spark an interest in ownership. The Jeep tagline will become more personal, highlighting the “I am” part of the new tagline, “I live. I ride. I am. Jeep.”

Phase Three
The third phase of the campaign will continue with the overall look and feel established in the previous phases, but will deliver a retail focused message and clear “call to action” that will be conveyed through dealer advertising and sales events. The tagline will once again evolve to support the campaign’s retail promise: “I live. I ride. I buy. Jeep.”

Nontraditional Advertising
In addition to traditional television and print advertising, Jeep is also extending its presence into very nontraditional Jeep venues: subways and train stations.

“The subway is the ultimate anti-Jeep experience,” Manley said. “It’s crowded. It’s stifling. It’s routine. It’s everything that Jeep is not. So why do it? Because it’s perfect. It will allow passengers to covet the freedom that Jeep vehicles deliver. Plus, the subway gives us a captive audience. One that is ethnically, culturally and economically diverse. It offers an extensive number of impressions, not bound by time of the day. And it provides a platform for a tailored message.”

The unique Jeep subway and train domination will allow consumers to see the full brand campaign come to life. Beginning on Nov. 2 in New York’s Penn Station, more than half a million daily commuters are being immersed in the new look and feel of the brand through a variety of creative elements including rotunda banners, “wrapped” stairs and floor graphics.

In addition to Penn Station, the Jeep ads also will take over the Grand Central Station and Times Square Shuttle, which will feature interior and exterior train wraps with messaging that captures elements of the Jeep lifestyle.

The PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) Train, connecting commuters between New York and New Jersey, will include multiple executions, such as signage and an impactful video of the Jeep Wrangler that will be projected onto the subway tunnel wall. The 15-second video will be visible to passengers as they ride the train.

The campaign will also include digital billboards in Times Square on the NASDAQ and Reuters buildings at 43rd Street and Broadway and 43rd Street and 7th Avenue, respectively.

Interactive banner advertising and billboards will also be key elements in the campaign. Mirroring the look and feel of the print ads, the billboards will have headlines such as, “Jeep. Making Mondays feel more like Fridays,” and “Jeep. Always taking the long way,” some of which will be translated into Spanish.

Interactive banner advertising will be featured on homepage takeovers on Yahoo and MSN on Nov. 11. Additional homepage takeovers on AOL will follow on Nov. 15 and 18.

As the campaign progresses, the Jeep brand will expand its messaging to appear on busses and in cinema.

TV Spots
In the first phase of the campaign, the television spots focus on communicating the overall brand positioning, the “Jeep philosophy” for living. As the campaign evolves, the commercials will focus on individual vehicles and the connection to consumers. Two 30-second spots will launch the new campaign and re-establish the brand with a new look and feel.

“Clocks,” the first spot in the new campaign, is a study of clocks in various settings, both interior and exterior. As the spot moves from frame to frame, the voiceover says, “Knowing that every day I have a choice to make, between watching the clock, and occasionally my back, or I can greedily, rightfully seize every ticking moment and never give one of them back.” The spot concludes with the camera taking the viewer through a spatial void to find a Jeep Wrangler, punctuated by the tagline, “I live. I ride. I am. Jeep.”

“Clocks” debuted Oct. 30 during “CBS Evening News with Katie Couric” and then rolled out to prime time network shows such as CBS’s “Ghost Whisperer,” “Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Late Show with Craig Ferguson;” ABC’s “20/20;” NBC’s “Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien;” and Fox’s “House.” The new spot then aired during Game 3 of the World Series.

The Dealer Advertising Associations (DAA) also are supporting the new campaign with media in their local markets. Later in the fourth quarter, a 30-second spot will also appear in more than 2,000 theaters on more than 30,000 screens.

“Reality” will be the second spot in the campaign that will air later in the month. The spot opens on various televisions as the channels are being changed showing different programming. The voiceover says, “Knowing reality isn’t captured by a hidden camera. It doesn’t come in episodes either. You see, I don’t live to live through anyone … ever. So while everyone waits to see the ‘next best’ this or ‘unbelievable’ that, here’s the reality: there is no rerun, when you are living in the now. So while you tune in, I’ll be somewhere getting out.” The spot closes with a unique view of the Jeep Liberty, again with the tagline, “I live. I ride. I am. Jeep.”

Additional television executions focusing on various Jeep nameplates will launch in December.

Print Ads
The first phase of the all-new Jeep print campaign reinforces the television spots with headlines that reflect the new “Jeep Philosophy” of living, using unique views of the vehicles, highlighted on a clean, white background. Headline examples include, “Working toward a goal that doesn’t work against my life,” “Trading 40 hrs. for 40 mph,” “Following my own lead,” “Not reading every e-mail,” or ”Knowing that a tie doesn’t have to tie me down.” All print ads also include the new Jeep tagline, “I live. I ride. I am. Jeep.”

The print ads debuted on Oct. 30 in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and the New York Times, and appeared in all three papers again on Nov. 4. During the week of Nov. 2, the new print ads can be seen in weekly magazines such as People, Time, Entertainment Weekly, ESPN and Sporting News.

Select print ads will also be translated into Spanish.

PHD continues as the Jeep brand’s media buying agency, while Organic provides interactive support.

Dealership Material
Jeep dealers will also have available to them a variety of materials that communicate the brand’s new positioning and mirror the look and feel of the national campaign. In their tool box, dealers will have newspaper and point-of-sale templates that can be tailored with an appropriate retail message or to promote a sales event. Select television advertising will also be produced in a 23/7-second format so dealers can add a retail tag.

“This is certainly an honor for Jeep,” Michael Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer – Jeep Brand, said. “We’re proud the Patriot proved its off-road prowess at the Texas Truck Rodeo. The Trail Rated® Jeep Patriot 4×4 is hands down the most capable and affordable SUV in the compact segment.”

More than 40 TAWA members were given two days of on- and off-road evaluation time with the Patriot and its competitors. Consideration is given to everything from exterior styling and off-road capability to the entrant’s overall utility, value and fuel efficiency.

“The TAWA Truck Rodeo is the most comprehensive evaluation of new trucks and SUVs in the country and manufacturers consider it a great honor to win their category,” Harold Gunn, President of TAWA, said.

With its combination of fun, freedom, utility and best-in-class Jeep 4×4 capability, the 2010 Patriot sets apart from the competition.

Innovative technology affords the Patriot more capability than any other vehicle in its class. The Patriot is available in three drive configurations: front-wheel drive, Freedom Drive I™ (a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode) and Freedom Drive II™ off-road package (a full-time, active 4×4 system with best-in-class 19:1 low ratio that provides true Jeep 4×4 Trail Rated capability).

The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot equipped with Freedom Drive II off-road package sits 1 inch higher than non-Trail Rated versions and meets Jeep off-road capability requirements for traction, water fording, articulation, maneuverability and ground clearance. The off-road package’s 17-inch wheels contribute to the Trail Rated Patriot’s 9 inches of ground clearance, 29.6-degree approach angle, 34.2-degree departure angle and 23.3-degree breakover angle. In addition, Trail Rated models have additional body sealing and high-mounted drivetrain vents in order to support 19-inch water-fording capability.

The Freedom Drive II off-road package uses a second-generation Continuously Variable Transaxle with a low ratio (CVT2L) to maximize off-road capability. In addition, 17-inch all-terrain tires, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks and fog lamps separate Trail Rated Jeep Patriot vehicles from all other compact SUVs.

Jeep Patriot is designed for customers who want four-wheel-drive capability or the year-round versatility, excellent fuel economy and an attractive price point. With modern interior and classic Jeep exterior styling, including traditional round Jeep headlamps, seven-slot grille, muscular body-side flares, and strong stance—the 2010 Jeep Patriot broadens the classic Jeep design appeal to new customers.

The board has not yet published its final proposed regulation, which is due by month’s end, the News said. Chrysler officials had raised the possibility at a June 25 hearing that they wouldn’t be able to sell the vehicle in California, and there was no indication at that time that the board would exempt flexible plastic windows, the story said.

Chrysler Group LLC sought an exemption for vehicles’ plastic windows, warning it could affect its GEM Electric vehicle and Jeep Wrangler, the paper said. The irony is the GEM electric vehicles don’t even offer air conditioning, Chrysler told the board, the story said. (The Detroit News)

A Chrysler spokesperson said the plant, known as Toledo Supplier Park, will be shut down for the week, but declined to say what the part was or which supplier makes it, the trade paper said. The plant manufactures two vehicles: the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

“The shutdown is due to the continued stress in the automotive supply chain,” the company said in a statement. So far this year, 20 U.S. suppliers tracked by Automotive News have filed for bankruptcy protection in U.S. courts. This does not include smaller suppliers or companies that have gone out of business without filing for bankruptcy, the paper said. (Automotive News)

Chromed Appearance
The “Moparized” Jeep Wrangler Unlimited features chromed mirror covers and brushed stainless steel door sills–popular accents that hold true to the appearance theme. At the rear of the Mopar-outfitted Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, a chromed fuel-filler cap and an upgraded chromed exhaust tip sparkle even in the worst weather and off-road conditions. In addition, tubular side steps double as easy entry points. Further, Mopar’s18-inch chromed aluminum wheels are added to enhance the appearance. Finishing off the iconic Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the historical seven-slot grille is upgraded to a chromed grill.

Ultimate Capability, Performance Parts from Mopar
In addition to chromed accents, Mopar offers a vast selection of parts and accessories to further enhance the capability and performance of Jeep Wrangler. These parts and accessories include lift kits, upgraded axles, rock protection, cold-air intake kits and cat-back exhaust systems.

Whether it’s chromed accents or lift kits, new Jeep Wrangler customers spend approximately $325 on Mopar parts and accessories in order to customize their new vehicle. To meet the demand of customer individuality, these parts and a variety of others may be ordered and installed at the dealership. They may also be installed at the factory.

“Right after Dodge Ram, Jeep Wrangler is our most accessorized vehicle,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer – Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care. “From chromed parts to axle kits, we offer our Jeep Wrangler owners hundreds of parts and accessories from which to choose.”

Frankfurt “Moparized” Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Part#                      Item                                                                   MSRP
82210469            Chromed Mirror Covers                            $121
82210558AC      Chromed Front Grille                                 $327
82210564AC      Chromed Tubular Side Steps                   $583
82210268            Chromed Taillamp Guards                       $183
82208439AB      Chromed Exhaust Tip                                $54
82210608            Chromed Fuel Filler Cap                           $165
82210142             Brushed Stainless Steel Door Sills         $111
82210001           18-inch Chromed Aluminum Wheel      $411

The gathering of more than 800 was held to honor the Plymouth Road Office Complex (PROC) in Detroit, which is closing as part of the company’s current restructuring. The employees enjoyed a lunch of hot dogs, potato chips and soda pop and heard a number of speakers, including former executives. Frank Klegon, former Executive Vice President—Product Design, was joined by Scott Kunselman, Senior Vice President—Product Engineering, and former executive Craig Love.

The event was held in the parking lot next to the facility with a number of vehicles development at the complex on display.

Plymouth Road is one of the Chrysler Group’s oldest facilities and one with a storied history. The complex, located on Detroit’s west side, was the home to several thousand employees over the years.

The building, which was designed by the Detroit architectural firm of Smith, Hinchman and Grylls, was built in 1926 and was the home of Kelvinator Corp., where refrigerators were designed, tested and manufactured. Kelvinator merged with Nash Motor Co. in 1937, and the complex served as the headquarters for Nash-Kelvinator Corp. and later for American Motors Corp. when Nash-Kelvinator merged with the Hudson Motor Car Co. in 1954.

During World War II, more than 250 helicopters were produced at the facility.

In March 1987, American Motors was bought by Chrysler Corporation, and the complex was turned into the principal location for the engineering, development and testing for Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge body-on-frame and rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

“It doesn’t get any more all-American than a Jeep Wrangler,” Dutch Mandel, editor and associate publisher of AutoWeek, said. “And with its removable top and off-roading ability, you can drive it anywhere and have a ball doing it.”

The Wrangler continued its strong upward sales trend for the fifth month in a row, with May 2009 sales of 9,294 units. Year-to-date, 44,080 Jeep Wranglers have been sold, up 11 percent from last year. The Wrangler has a 33 percent share of the compact SUV segment.

The Wrangler Unlimited four-door also continues to be a hit, comprising 60 percent of all 4×4 Wrangler sales for 2009.

“More than 68 years ago, Jeep created the SUV category with the introduction of the Wrangler,” Mike Accavitti, Director—Brand Marketing, said. “Today, our Jeep Wrangler remains an icon, set apart by its purpose-built design and ultimate capability.”

In AutoPacific’s 2009 Vehicle Satisfaction Award research, owners gave top ratings to the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram in the large pickup truck category, beating the new 2009 Ford F-150, while the Jeep Liberty placed at the top of the mid-size sport-utility vehicle category.

“The opinions of our owners are what really matter, so this is a great win for our all-new Dodge Ram and Jeep Liberty,” Doug Betts, Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, said. “This award confirms that we are making significant changes and improvements in vehicle quality that are being recognized by our customers.”

AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Award is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with his/her new car or light truck, and reflects the opinions of consumers nationwide. Owner satisfaction is measured across specific areas related to a vehicle’s operation, comfort, safety and the overall purchase/lease experience.

Now in its 13th year, AutoPacific gathers more than 25,000 responses from consumers for its annual survey. The 2009 ratings reflect input from buyers and lessees of new vehicles acquired from September through December 2008.

Since its introduction in 2002, the popular Jeep Liberty mid-size SUV gives off-road enthusiasts and owners their own sense of personal freedom and capability that can only come from the Jeep brand. The Liberty offers legendary Trail Rated® Jeep 4×4 capability combined with a new level of on-road refinement and innovative features.

The all-new Ram features the industry’s first-and-only RamBox™ cargo management system that includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated, drainable storage bins; pickup bed dividers; a two-foot bed extender and a cargo rail system with sliding adjustable cleats.

The 2009 Ram also includes the first-in-segment coil-spring, five-link rear suspension fitted to a solid rear axle that provides ride and handling not found on any other pickup truck. A new 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with fuel-saving MDS technology provides more horsepower (390 hp) and torque (407 lb.-ft.) while its best-in-class aerodynamics (.387 cd) improve fuel economy and performance.

The all-new Ram 1500 Regular, Quad® and Crew Cab models recently earned five star ratings for driver- and front-passenger protection in a frontal crash, the highest ratings in the U.S. government’s safety crash test program. The U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the Ram 1500 is $22,170 (including $900 destination).

In addition to winning AutoPacific’s VSA, the all-new Ram has earned 16 key awards since its introduction and was recently chosen by Car and Driver magazine as the best full-size pickup in head-to-head comparison test in Texas, beating the 2009 Ford F-150.