Johnson, the No. 6 qualifier and driver of the Mopar/J&J Racing Dodge Stratus R/T, drew Deceglie in an opening-round battle of J&J Racing-prepped Mopar HEMI®-powered Dodges. The left lane appeared problematic for the pro stockers during the first two matchups, prompting Johnson to switch to the right lane. The decision proved prescient as Johnson captured the round win with a 6.648-second elapsed time (ET) at 207.18 mph, with Deceglie struggling to make it down the track with a 7.187/128.19 mark.

Johnson squared off with Line in the second round. Johnson was first off the starting line with a reaction time of .023 (.000 is perfect) to Line’s mark of .057, but his lead was short-lived, as his Mopar Dodge shook the tires shortly after takeoff, bringing an end to his 2009 campaign.

“I’m not that happy with our ending today,” Johnson said. “I think we had a package there that maybe could have knocked him (Line) out. We had a really good light. It’s not the ending we wanted. But, you know, it’s been another year and we’re all safe. We’ll come back next year and try to get that title.”

Johnson finished the season with two victories, at the O’Reilly NHRA Summer Nationals in Topeka and the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Denver. The two triumphs were a single-season career high for the Greeneville, Tenn., native. The Team Mopar veteran also captured his seventh career No. 1 Qualifier Award at the NHRA Northwest Nationals in Seattle. Johnson is scheduled to switch to a new Mopar Pro Stock Dodge Avenger in 2010.

Mopar-powered driver Johnny Gray went down in defeat in the first round, losing to Kurt Johnson. HEMI-powered pro stockers Larry Morgan and Rickie Jones also exited in the opening stanza. Allen Johnson finished seventh in the final NHRA pro stock countdown to 1 point standings, with Gray ninth and Jones 10th. The 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series will begin with the 50th Annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Feb. 11-14.
 

Capps finishes third in funny car standings

Mopar® HEMI®-powered NAPA Auto Parts Dodge Charger R/T funny car driver Ron Capps reached the semifinal round at the 45th annual Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals on Nov. 15 before he was defeated by Ashley Force Hood. Capps ended up third in the final 2009 NHRA Full Throttle funny car point standings, having earned the most class victories (five) this season.

En route to the semifinal, Capps dismissed Bob Tasca III in the opening round with a 4.312-second elapsed time at 236.67 mph, then disposed of his Mopar-fueled Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) teammate Matt Hagan in the second round, with a 4.144/310.48.

Force Hood was there for the taking after she launched with a .143 reaction time to Capps’ .086, but the veteran lost traction, allowing Force Hood to take the win with a 4.133/307.09 pass, while Capps followed with a losing 4.775/248.25.

“We were still on a mission to try to stand on the podium at the awards banquet in second place,” said Capps, who missed out on his fourth runner-up season finish by 48 points. “It would have been nice after winning five races this year to finish second. We ended up third, and that’s OK.”

Capps’ DSR teammate, Jack Beckman, lost in the opening round at Pomona, finishing fifth in the standings. Capps and Beckman (two wins) combined to drive Mopar HEMI-powered Dodge Charger R/T funny cars to seven wins during the 2009 season.

Shaul claims stock eliminator victory at NHRA finals

John Shaul, of Fultonham, N.Y., drove his AA/SA 1964 Plymouth Fury to the overall stock eliminator class victory on Nov. 15 at the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals in Pomona, Calif.

The veteran Mopar® Sportsman driver defeated Tony Janes, Phil Mandella, Larry Petersen, Jeff Jerome (driving a 1973 Duster) and Jody Lang, in order, to set up his finals appearance against the 1969 Camaro of Jimmy DeFrank.

Shaul hauled in his Wally trophy by scoring a holeshot win against DeFrank. Shaul recorded an elapsed time of 9.772 seconds with a reaction time of .019 to DeFrank’s 9.736 run, paired with a slower .064 reaction time. Shaul’s margin of victory was 23 inches.

Saldana’s victory was his second of the season at the state-of-the-art four-tenths-mile track. He joins a short list of drivers who have won 20 or more A-Feature events in a season: 20-time series champion Steve Kinser, three-time titlist Sammy Swindell, two-time champ Mark Kinser and Doug Wolfgang accomplished that feat prior to Saturday night. Including a preliminary feature win during the Gold Cup Race of Champions in September, Saldana finished the year with 21 overall triumphs.

“This is great,” Saldana, driver of the Kasey Kahne Racing Budweiser sprinter, said. “Not many men have done that and it’s a pretty tough feat to accomplish. It means our team is going in the right direction and we know we can do it.”

Saldana finished third in the final World of Outlaws Sprint Series standings and led the series in laps led and money earned. He wrapped up the 2009 campaign with 48 Top-10 finishes of which 37 were top-five performances.

Attendees at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, Nov. 3–6, got the first glimpse of the new Pro Stock Dodge Avenger. The 2010 NHRA Pro Stock Mopar Dodge Avenger of Team Mopar driver Allen Johnson was on exhibit in the Mopar display at SEMA.

The new Pro Stock Mopar Dodge Avenger has been officially approved for competition by the NHRA. The Dodge Avenger is targeted for its competition debut at the 50th Annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Calif., Feb. 11–14, 2010. The Mopar Dodge Avenger replaces the previous Dodge Stratus R/T body, which had been in use by Mopar HEMI®-powered NHRA Pro Stock competitors since the midpoint of the 2003 season.

The new Pro Stock Mopar Dodge Avenger was developed in-house at Chrysler Group LLC. The project used Chrysler Group tools and resources also employed to build the production Dodge Avenger, creating a connection between the street car and the quarter-mile racer.

The greatest challenge to the Dodge Motorsports engineering team tasked with the project was maintaining maximum identity of the Dodge Avenger in the new body without forsaking performance on the drag strip.

“Our team worked within NHRA’s rules to balance aerodynamic performance goals and maximize Dodge Avenger identity,” Joe Vitous, SRT and Motorsports Aero-Thermal Manager, said. “The new Mopar Dodge Avenger meets or exceeds the aero goals we established.”

Driver Allen Johnson said: “I’m very excited to race the new Mopar Dodge Avenger. We’ve been racing the Stratus since mid-2003. Just having a change is an upgrade. We feel we’ve been at a disadvantage with some of our competitors who have been racing in newer bodies for the last few years. I was fitted for the new body in late September. NHRA was there, and we spent a lot of time going over the templates. That was exciting. I’m glad we’re going ahead full bore.”

Chrysler Group LLC will be the first automaker in the United States to offer live mobile TV to consumers with the capacity for as many as 20 channels through FLO TV auto entertainment. The system offers something for everyone: college and professional sports, breaking news, children’s shows, primetime sitcoms, reality TV and daytime dramas.

Mopar will showcase FLO TV auto entertainment at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas next week.

“We want to offer our customers the ultimate in entertainment,” Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, said. “With FLO TV Auto Entertainment, we are the first automaker to offer mobile TV with the capacity for as many as 20 channels.”

Until now, the challenge for mobile TV has been to deliver high-quality, uninterrupted coverage in urban environments and at highway speeds. Existing mobile TV systems in the United States either offer limited channels or require large satellite dishes on vehicle roofs—and a large price tag to match.

Mopar’s suggested retail price is $629, plus installation. A one-year prepaid FLO TV service subscription is included with installation.

The entertainment package will be available as a dealer-installed option on the following 2008-2010 model year vehicles with factory DVD entertainment systems: Chrysler Town & Country, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro, Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500.

The service also can be added to select 2008-2010 model-year vehicles when new Mopar headrest or seat-top DVD entertainment systems are purchased.

How it works

Television signals are delivered through a dedicated multicast network built by San Diego-based FLO TV Inc., a live mobile TV service provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc. FLO TV offers live and time-shifted programming from top entertainment brands, including CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, Fox News, MSNBC, MTV, NBC 2Go and Nickelodeon.

Up to 20 channels will be available in late December when the feature is available for dealer installation. By the end of 2009, the FLO TV service should be available in more than 100 major markets and many interstate driving corridors. The FLO TV service is not available in some rural areas.

Audiovox Corp., of Hauppauge, N.Y., supplies FLO TV Auto Entertainment hardware that integrates with Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles’ existing entertainment systems and new Mopar 7-inch DVD screen systems. A small antenna, similar in size to a laptop mouse, is mounted on a vehicle’s roof to deliver the digital TV signal. Inside the vehicle, the receiver and wiring are installed under the interior trim of the vehicle and are not visible to occupants.

User-friendly wired and wireless remote controls allow viewers to easily surf channels, similar to TV systems at home.

Mopar’s FLO TV™ Auto Entertainment option includes a three-year/36,000-mile warranty on new vehicles or a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on used vehicles for hardware and installation.

“With hundreds of new parts and accessories for 2010, Mopar continues to grow its catalog of proven, quality-tested parts and accessories,” Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO, Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, said. “And with our Mopar eStore, customers will have the ability to conveniently order parts and accessories online and have them delivered to their doorstep.”

Mopar accessories and parts feature precise fit and finish and are designed and engineered to meet all of Chrysler Group LLC’s original equipment specifications and quality standards. Following are highlights of all-new, authentic Mopar parts for 2010. See www.mopar.com for catalog information and downloads.

Mopar eStore
With online ordering, Mopar will make it easy for consumers to purchase authentic parts and accessories. Beginning next month, consumers may log on to the Mopar eStore at www.mopar.com and purchase any of the more than 100,000 parts and accessories available for a variety of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Plymouth vehicles.

“Over the past year, approximately 40 percent of consumers who were in the market to purchase parts and accessories have shopped online,” Gorlier said. “Our Mopar eStore addresses this market and will be a critical sales channel for the brand.”

Mopar will ship parts anywhere in the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. Delivery time will vary depending on the shipping method selected and part availability. Typically, consumers can expect to receive their merchandise within two to five days.

Mopar will get racing and off-road enthusiasts buzzing with its enhanced lineup of engines and components, which includes the industry’s first aluminum HEMI® engine blocks. Mopar will offer three aluminum versions based on the popular 6.1-liter block, all of which are up to 98 pounds lighter than the cast-iron production version found in the company’s SRT8® products.

The first all-aluminum option is a 6.1-liter HEMI block—a direct replacement for the factory production cast-iron 6.1-liter HEMI engine block. The second option is prepped for a 426 cubic-inch (similar to the 6.9-liter) engine and the third option is an engine-builder’s special or “X Block,” which has rough-machined bores that allow for up to 468 cubic inches (similar to the 7.6-liter engine).

Beyond the new aluminum HEMI engine blocks, Mopar will continue to support the traditional enthusiast with a broad range of HEMI crate engines including the 6.1-liter V-8, 5.7-liter V-8, 426 cubic-inch V-8, 472 cubic-inch V-8, 528 cubic-inch V-8, plus a new 572 cubic-inch V-8. With 650 horsepower and a monstrous 660 lb.-ft. of torque, the 572 cubic-inch HEMI is the centerpiece of Mopar’s crate engine program. It continues the heritage of the 1960s HEMI engines made popular in vehicles including the Plymouth Barracuda “HEMI ’Cuda”, Plymouth Satellite and Dodge Charger.

Mopar also will introduce a new 4.7-liter I-6 Stroker long block, a powerful upgrade for the 4.0-liter I-6 made famous in Jeep vehicles built from 1991-2006. Since off-road enthusiasts appreciated the dependability and performance of the previous 4.0-liter engine, Mopar developed a more powerful engine that delivers an expected 265 horsepower and 290 lb.-ft of torque. The engine will fit in any Jeep vehicle previously equipped with the 4.0-liter I-6 engine.

Mark Allen, Mopar® Design Team Leader, shows off the key features of the Dodge Challenger 1320 “image” vehicle that will be on display at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show next week (Nov. 3-6) in Las Vegas. The Challenger 1320 is a light-weight, stripped-down, race-only, special-order version of the Dodge Challenger designed for competitive drag racing.

A ‘Moparized’ Chrysler Town & Country

The Mopar® organization is continuing to prep accessorized vehicles for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas next week.

In addition to the brand’s image vehicles that were announced earlier this month, finishing touches are being made to a lineup of Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge Car and Ram Truck “Moparized” vehicles.

“Mopar is the place to go if you are looking to further enhance the appearance and performance of your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car or Ram Truck vehicle,” Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, said. “The SEMA show is a great opportunity for us to showcase vehicles with proven, quality-tested parts and accessories, along with our technical and diagnostic capabilities.”

Following are seven vehicles heading for the SEMA show:

2010 Chromed Ram Heavy Duty Crew Cab

The 2010 Ram 2500 Crew Cab 4×4 accessorized in a unique “Chrome Theme” stands tall with a Mopar 2-inch lift kit and 35-inch tires. Available for the first time in a crew-cab model and featuring the most powerful standard engine in the segment—a 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel that generates 350 horsepower and 650 lb. ft. of torque—this Deep Water Blue Laramie showcases the following Mopar accessories:

• Chromed tube steps featuring 5-inch oval side steps with black molded end caps, slip-resistant pads and heavy-duty drill-free mounting brackets for easy entry and exit. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP): $614
• Chromed door-sill guards for the front and rear protect interior sills from scratches. MSRP: $178 (set of four)
• Chromed tailgate bezel with backup camera adds style and enhanced safety. MSRP: $39
•  Bright B-pillar trim kits (MSRP: $119) add a sporty touch.
• Chromed fuel door (MSRP: $132) and chromed exhaust tip (MSRP: $99.30)
• Deep Water Blue hard tonneau cover is custom designed for a perfect color match and offers an easy-opening cover, including a built-in tailgate lock for added security. MSRP: $1,290
• Rear-seat entertainment system features a 7-inch DVD player/screen integrated into the rear of both headrests and includes a remote and two headsets. MSRP: $1,625
• Mopar-developed Katzkin brand leather seating in dark slate color with blue accents coordinates with the exterior of the vehicle. Covers are available in a range of colors, configurations, stitching and piping. MSRP: $1,199

2010 Ram Heavy Duty Ultimate Tow Machine

For the ultimate in towing capability, Mopar accessorized a Bright White 2010 Dodge 3500 Mega Cab 4×4 in Laramie trim that offers towing capability of up to 16,450 pounds and a maximum payload of 5,150 pounds with the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel. Mopar offers the following accessories to deliver the total tow package:

• Gooseneck Hitch installs securely in the pickup bed and handles the toughest towing needs as it is attached to the frame rails. MSRP: $258
• Gooseneck Hitch Install Kit includes frame rail-mounted brackets, cross members and hardware. MSRP: $209
• Running Boards designed by Mopar to fit the unique contours of the Dodge Heavy Duty. Available in black and silver, these rust-proof boards are designed for minimal slippage to make it easy to enter/exit the vehicle and maximize looks. MSRP: $599
• Mopar Retractable Bed Step provides an intermediate platform between the ground and the rear bumper to enable easy step-up on to the tailgate. MSRP: $264
• Heavy-Duty Splash Guards provide maximum lower-body protection with ultra-thick rubber construction that features the Ram’s head logo. MSRP: $40.40
• Uconnect® Web from Mopar turns this Ram Heavy Duty into a WiFi hotspot, allowing multiple-passenger access to in-vehicle internet connectivity. MSRP: $499
• Mopar Slush Mats feature a deep-groove design in order to keep water, snow and mud from carpeted surfaces. MSRP: $96.15

2010 Ram Heavy Duty Work Truck

The entire 2010 Ram Heavy Duty lineup is well equipped for any work environment. The Inferno Crystal Red 2010 Ram 2500 ST 4×2 and its 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 include the following Mopar accessories that’ll make any hard-working owner proud to show up on the job site:

• Utility Rail System, constructed of bright anodized aluminum, offers infinitely adjustable cargo-box tie-down possibilities. MSRP: $356
• Diamond-plated Sliding Toolbox featuring a key-locking lid holds up to 300 pounds of additional cargo. MSRP: $539
•  Drop-in Bed Liner offers skid-resistant, under-the-rail protection that is tailored for a perfect fit and features the Ram’s head logo. MSRP: $325
• Black powder-coated aluminum Tubular Side Steps provide skid-resistant stepping surfaces for easy entry and exit. MSRP: $307
• Stake Tie Downs mount directly into stake holes and provide a readily available tie-down hook that may be folded down and out of the way when not in use. MSRP: $70.20
• Retractable Bed Step provides an intermediate platform between the ground and the rear bumper to enable easy step-up on to the tailgate. MSRP: $264
• Mopar Slush Mats feature a deep-groove design in order to keep water, snow and mud from carpeted surfaces. MSRP: $96.15

‘Moparized’ Dodge Challenger

• Custom-designed, matte black Go-Wing Rear Spoiler MSRP: $316
• Mopar Nostalgia Wheels are a throw back to Mopar’s heritage with 20-inch, 5-spoke forged-aluminum wheels featuring both a polished and clear-coat finish. MSRP: $583/each
• Black 5.7-liter HEMI® Engine Cover with HEMI logos show off the powerplant in a not-so-subtle style. MSRP: $326
• Hood Prop Kit replaces the single-hood prop rod with two gas struts and fasteners for easy hood travel. MSRP: $51.60
• Cold-air Intake Kit provides noticeable gains in horsepower and torque, improved performance when accelerating and emits an aggressive sound from under the hood. MSRP: $371
• Front and Rear Splash Guards provide excellent protection for front fenders, rocker panels and rear fascias with a custom-molded design. MSRP: $52.75 pair
• Stainless-steel Cat-back Exhaust features a free-flow system that provides gains in horsepower and torque in addition to improved fuel economy and a deep-toned exhaust note. MSRP: $1,190
• Chromed Fuel Door offers bright, bold complement to any exterior paint color while providing a retro look. MSRP: $176
• One-piece Wheel Lock Kit provides protection with four chrome-plated locking nuts and one exclusive Mopar key. MSRP: $43.45
• Custom Strobe Stripe Graphic adds a black stripe that begins on both front fenders and fades out midway through the door panel for an added performance look. MSRP: $182
• Uconnect Navigation includes AM/FM/DVD player and Sirius Satellite radio with 30-gigabyte hard drive, USB connection and mini stereo jack. MSRP: $2,050
• Sound system includes 368-watt amplifier (MSRP: $210), two 6-inch x 9-inch speakers in front (MSRP: $115), two 6-inch x 5-inch Kicker speakers in rear (MSRP: $79), and dual 10-inch square Kicker Subwoofer (MSRP: $885)
• Ambient Lighting Kit illuminates the entire front footwell and cupholder areas with multi-color LEDs controlled with a rotary knob. MSRP: $274
• Mopar Sirius Satellite Radio Antenna Kit delivers a new level of depth and content with more than 100 channels of digital entertainment from coast to coast. MSRP: $158
• Chromed T-handle Shifter featuring a Mopar logo enhances the interior appearance by replacing the stock shift knob on the automatic-equipped Dodge Challenger. MSRP: $137
• Interior Bezel Kit upgrades the center stack and console trim plate bezels with a two-piece, carbon-weave hydrographic finish. MSRP: $172
• Easy-to-install Pedal Dress up Kit showcases bright stainless-steel pedal covers for a performance-accented look. MSRP: $82.25
• Mopar’s brushed stainless-steel Door-Sill Guards make scratches to the interior sills a thing of the past. MSRP: $140
• Premium front and rear Floor Mats feature 24-ounce luxury carpet that is color-coordinated to match any interior color. Front mats are custom-contoured for an exact fit and feature the Dodge Challenger logo on top of a rubber-nibbed backing which keep them firmly in place. MSRP: $82.25/set of four
• Challenger-branded Cargo Area Mat is made of 24-ounce luxury carpet that is custom fit with a surged-edge binding for easy removal. MSRP: $107
• Mopar’s Stage II Coil-Over Suspension Kit allows up to a 1.625-inch ride-height drop for a low, custom look while maintaining a sporty, comfortable ride. MSRP: $1,750
• Made from heavy gauge, powder-coated steel, the Strut Tower Brace reduces body flex in the front end and improves handling and driveability. MSRP: $359
• Hood Pin and Cable Kit adds an extra touch of exposed chrome to Dodge Challenger’s front end. MSRP: $71
• Mopar-edition Hood Decal MSRP: $350

Extreme Off-Road 20101 Jeep Wrangler

Taking the off-road theme to the extreme is a Flame Red 2010 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that generates 202 horsepower and 237 lb.-ft. of torque while mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Already an intimidating performer by virtue of the 2-inch Mopar Lift Kit with an MSRP of $1,510 and 35-inch tires, additional Mopar accessories on this vehicle include:

• A Cold-air Intake Kit provides an aggressive engine sound and improved performance with a system that meets emission standards in all 50 states. MSRP: $359
• Mopar heavy-duty, off-road front bumper features high clearance to provide fender protection while the integral winch mount is low enough to minimize airflow blockage to the engine compartment. MSRP: $610
• Warn Winch Model 9.5XP features fast line speed. MSRP: $1,399
• Mopar Off-road Rear Bumper uses compact dimensions for excellent ground clearance and is equipped with tow eyes, just in case they’re needed. MSRP: $525 
• Black Taillight Guards add protection for off-road rides and look good when driving around town. MSRP: $125 
• Rock Rails feature a strong integrated rub bar that run the length of the rocker panel, providing great body-side protection that does not reduce ground clearance. MSRP: $572
• The custom-designed heavy-duty steel Front Skid Plate protects the steering gear by sliding over off-road obstacles. MSRP: $265 
• Differential Cover Skid Plates protect factory differential covers and vital drive-line gears from road hazards. MSRP: $79
• Off-road Lighting Package features two heavy-duty off-road lights and lenses that mount to the windshield and shed more light on any terrain. MSRP: $300
• Black Door-Entry Guards, featuring the Jeep brand logo, protect interior sills with a tough surface. MSRP: $25/set
• Satin Black Fuel Door adds a sculpted design to complement any exterior body color. MSRP: $104 
• Custom-fit Front (MSRP: $211) and Rear (MSRP: $154) Seat Covers featuring the Jeep logo keep dirt and moisture off seat surfaces.
• Heavy-duty Grab Handles connect directly to the overhead Sport Bar and feature easy-to-hold rubber grips and durable leather webbing. MSRP: $33
• Mopar Slush Mats are custom-designed with a unique tire-tread pattern and mud graphics that prevent water, snow and mud from carpeted surfaces. MSRP: $48
• Premium Kicker audio speaker upgrade kicks out vibrant sound, bigger bass and clean highs. MSRP: $158

Family-Friendly, Off-Road 2010 Jeep Wrangler

While capable of handling serious off-roading duties with a Mopar 2-inch Lift Kit (MSRP: $1,510) and 33-inch tires, the Deep Water Blue 2010 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited four-door is built with the family in mind. Powered by the same 3.8-liter V-6 engine that generates 202 horsepower and 237 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, the following accessories from Mopar outfit the 5-passenger ultimate off-road SUV in style.

The American Expedition Vehicles’ (AEV) Front Bumper System (MSRP: $1,620) is the only stamped-steel off-road bumper in the industry. Included with the AEV Front Bumper System are a Skid Plate and Winch Mount that allow the Warn Winch Model 9.5XP (MSRP: $1,399) to be perfectly integrated, eliminating airflow blockage to the engine compartment.

• Off-road bumpers feature integrated fog lights to improve visibility and a stylish Grille Guard up front, along with a rear bumper that clears all hitch receivers and is equipped with tow eyes. MSRP: Front $531; Rear $558
• Differential Cover Skid Plates protect factory differential covers and vital drive-line gears from on- and off-road hazards. MSRP: $79
• Black Door-Entry Guards, featuring the Jeep brand logo, protect interior sills with a tough surface. MSRP: $40/set
• Mopar-exclusive, two-tone Katzkin Leather seating with embroidered Jeep logo includes a heated-seat upgrade with three settings for optimal temperature control in both the front and rear. MSRP: Seating $774; Heated Seat Kit $291
• Heavy-duty Grab Handles strap directly to the overhead Sport Bar and feature easy-to-hold rubber grips and durable webbing. MSRP: $33
• Mopar Slush Mats are custom designed with a unique tire-tread pattern and mud graphics that prevent water, snow and mud from damaging carpeted surfaces. MSRP: $76
• The Kicker 10-inch subwoofer with a 200-watt amplifier, offers a dynamic improvement in sound quality and is uniquely integrated into the vehicle. MSRP: $630

‘Moparized’ Chrysler Town & Country

• Head Restraint DVD System uses an innovative 7-inch DVD player that is integrated into both driver and front-passenger head restraints. MSRP: $1,625
• Uconnect Web system provides high-speed WiFi and 3G cellular connectivity for a new level of wireless technology, transforming the vehicle into a mobile “hot spot” that provides instant access to Web sites, e-mail, personalized music, online gaming, photo albums and more. MSRP: $499
• Molded Running Boards are Mopar’s best-selling accessory for minivans. They provide easy in-and-out access with a step-height, skid-resistant surface. MSRP: $556
• Stainless-steel Door-Sill Guards, featuring the vehicle logo help protect interior door sills from scratches. MSRP: $85.30/set
• Heavy-duty Slush Mats match the interior color and protect the carpet in the minivan’s first and second rows. Deep grooves prevent water, snow and mud from spilling on to the vehicle’s carpet, while rubber-nibbed backings help keep mats in place. MSRP: $101
• Rear Splash Guards provide excellent lower-body protection and add a dash of style by being custom-molded to the contours of the vehicle. MSRP: $43.45

The four Mopar®-customized vehicles will steal the show early next month at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. Mopar’s in-house team of creative customizers developed a slew of high-performance image vehicles that feature the brand’s innovative performance parts and accessories.

“Our Mopar vehicles demonstrate this company’s passion and enthusiasm for the automotive aftermarket,” Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer – Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, said. “We will gauge reaction to these vehicles and explore new directions as we develop Mopar performance parts and accessories for our vehicles.”

Ralph Gilles, President and CEO—Dodge Car Brand and Senior Vice President—a Product Design, said: “The aftermarket is not an after-thought in our design studio. Our vehicles are designed and built by the same passionate automotive enthusiasts within our company who are designing and engineering new Mopar parts and accessories for vehicles in our product pipeline.”

Led by Mark Allen, Head of Jeep Design, the Mopar design team developed four head-turning vehicles for next month’s SEMA event.

Mopar Dodge Challenger 1320 Image Vehicle: Exploring a street-legal Drag Pak Challenger

The Dodge Challenger 1320 began life as a Mopar Drag Pak Dodge Challenger. The current Drag Pak option is a light-weight, stripped-down, race-only, special-order version of the Dodge Challenger designed for competitive drag racing.

For the street-legal design, Mopar’s design team took the vehicle back to its roots with styling reminiscent of vintage Mopar muscle, updated with today’s technology. The Dodge Challenger 1320 image vehicle, named for the 1,320 feet on a quarter-mile drag strip, features Mopar’s 426 cubic-inch, all-aluminum, HEMI® V-8 crate engine that generates 556 horsepower.

The engine is equipped with unique Mopar-designed valve covers and a dress-up kit. Mopar’s long-tube headers and exhaust system allow the cubic inches to breathe. Electric cutouts allow the exhaust to bypass the muffler system, which exits through custom side pipes for added rumble at the drag strip.

Power is put to the ground via a six-speed manual transmission through a custom Dynatrac rear housing with Mopar Dana 60 internals and a selectable, ARB locking differential. Mopar police wheels, widened in the rear, are strapped with Nitto brand street-legal drag radials to provide extra grip at launch.

A four-corner, adjustable coil-over kit is provided by Mopar as an option for the Dodge Challenger. This system improves the handling of the vehicle under extreme loads of 556 horsepower and 540 lb.-ft. of torque.

Following Mopar’s high-impact color heritage, the design team layered the 1320 in Acidic Hue, a non-metallic yellow paint and added matte black graphics. The body is lightened with the following carbon-fiber components from Mopar’s design team and Seibon:
• Bulged hood with HEMI scoop
• Front spoiler
• Grille panel/headlamp surround

The interior is equipped with bare necessities:  Dodge Viper seats, a sport steering wheel and a Hurst shifter. The rear seat, center console and radio have been removed in order to reduce vehicle weight and maintain the 1320’s no-nonsense theme.

Mopar Dodge Ram Bianco Image Vehicle: A stylish, luxury pickup truck

The Dodge Ram Bianco started life as a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. The Dodge Ram is modified to reflect an upscale feel and appearance with the aid of Mopar performance parts and accessories. Colors, textures and accessories are combined in a manner that showcases the sophisticated side of the Dodge Ram 1500.

Exterior modifications include a Mopar hard tonneau cover that adds a classic, sporty appearance. The inside of the truck bed features Mopar’s bed rug—a plush, yet washable carpet. For the exterior, a Mopar body kit and modified Mopar fender flares give a unique, sophisticated look. The stance is aided by a Ground Force brand lowering kit that not only lowers the vehicle, but also provides excellent ride and handling.

The Dodge Ram Bianco is layered in several coats of Arctic Ice pearl paint that give it a rich appearance. Holding true to the upscale theme, Mopar’s 22-inch wheels are painted in a matching, high-contrast design. Performance upgrades include a Mopar cold-air intake and a throaty Mopar dual exhaust with just enough growl to let you know there is something powerful under the hood.

The exterior theme continues through the interior. White and black Katzkin brand seats with matching door trim set the stage for a high-class ride. Piano Black and Arctic Ice accents add to the luxurious theme. For sound, Mopar contributed a Kicker brand audio system consisting of an audio amplifier, a powerful subwoofer and upgraded speakers.

Mopar Jeep Wrangler Overland Image Vehicle: A stop-anywhere, camp-anywhere Jeep vehicle

The Jeep Wrangler Overland is perfect for those craving travel and adventure. The Mopar design team took a 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon and turned it into a mobile “on-the-go” self-contained campsite.

To increase cargo capacity for hauling gear, the Jeep Wrangler Overland’s rear seats are replaced with a large, flat, rubberized utility floor. Mounted to the cargo rack is an all-new ARB two-person Simpson II rooftop-mounted tent and touring awning. The interior of the Jeep Wrangler Overland features water-resistant Mopar front-seat covers, rugged Mopar slush mats, a Daystar brand dash bin and lower switch panel that powers added accessories.

Enhancing off-road travel is an American Expedition Vehicles’ (AEV), Nth Degree, 3-inch suspension lift and a Full Traction brand rear sway bar. The lift allows aggressive 35-inch tires mounted on 17-inch steel Mopar winter/off-road wheels to fit under the Jeep. Additional off-road protection at the front and rear is provided by AEV brand steel bumpers and for added security, a Warn brand 9.5ti winch.

In order to prepare the Jeep Wrangler Overland for desert duty, an AEV Jeep Wrangler heat-reduction hood and snorkel kit is fitted to the vehicle. Mopar windshield-mounted off-road lights and Daystar bumper-mounted lights provide additional lighting for nighttime and off-road driving.

Mopar Jeep Lower Forty Image Vehicle: An extreme trail rig with 40-inch tires

The Jeep “Lower Forty” takes the Jeep Wrangler platform to a new extreme. The vehicle is equipped with massive 40-inch by 13.5-inch tires mounted on Mopar’s 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels. Mopar added aggressive wheels and tires to a stock, two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon without the use of a suspension lift. The team’s goal was to achieve added ground clearance without dramatically altering the vehicle’s center of gravity. The team removed copious amounts of body metal in order to provide room for 40-inch tires. Three inches are chopped from the windshield frame and a 10-degree rake is added.

Custom front and rear fender flares are 1-inch wider and are located 4 inches higher than a stock Jeep Wrangler. A new one-piece carbon-fiber hood with a Jeep CJ-like power dome and an all-new drop-down tailgate stamped with the “Jeep” logo are added to complete the exterior design.

On the interior, an all-new roll cage is neatly integrated into the body tub and tied directly into the frame rails. The spare tire is relocated to the cargo floor and a custom cargo rack, supplied by Poly Performance, holds extra gear. Once all body modifications were completed, the exterior received a fresh coat of Red Eye No. 3 paint, a custom color developed by Mopar.

Custom touches throughout the interior include a color-matched center console and instrument panel. Seats are re-covered with Mopar’s Katzkin leather package in a two-tone scheme. Replacing the carpet is a durable, spray-in truck-bed liner. Rugged Mopar floor mats complete the theme.

Mechanical upgrades came directly out of the Mopar catalog. The Jeep “Lower Forty” features an all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine and a Getrag 238 six-speed manual transmission. Powertrain installations were handled by Burnsville Off-Road using an AEV 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 conversion kit.

The Mopar-supplied Dana 44 front axle and a Dana 60 rear axle, fitted with 5.38 gears and ARB air lockers, were assembled by Dynatrac.

The SEMA show is the premier automotive accessories trade event that serves the $38.1 billion annual automotive specialty-equipment industry. Mopar will be there to showcase a selection of more than 280,000 components that it distributes worldwide in more than 90 countries.

The show runs from Tuesday Nov. 3 to Friday, Nov. 6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“We are thrilled to highlight some of our parts and cutting-edge service, technical and diagnostic capabilities,” Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer—Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, said. “Our ‘Moparized’ vehicles will be must-see at the show.”

For its parts and accessories business, Mopar officials will talk directly to aftermarket owners and installers who ultimately determine which components are used on Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge Car and Dodge Ram vehicles. They also will reinforce the fact that only Mopar parts and accessories are specifically designed, engineered and quality-tested for company products.

“By using Mopar parts and accessories, customers will enjoy the added benefits of ease-of-installation, safety, a high-quality fit and finish and a full warranty,” Gorlier said. “We are looking forward to this year’s SEMA show and further driving our business at Mopar.”