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Chrysler Weighs Viper Options

By MIKE BARRIS
August 27, 2008 11:15 a.m.

Chrysler LLC will explore options for the Dodge Viper hot-rod as the auto maker focuses on its core business and struggles to overcome its dependence on gas-guzzling trucks and sport-utility vehicles.


Chairman and Chief Executive Bob Nardelli said third parties approached Chrysler about "exploring future possibilities" for the vehicle, which is hand-built in a low-volume modular process in Detroit. The Viper was introduced as a concept vehicle at the 1989 Detroit auto show. It was first available as a production vehicle in the 1992 model year, and the auto maker celebrated the building of its 25,000th Dodge Viper in March.


Reuters A 2008 Dodge Viper at the New York International Auto Show.


The Viper announcement comes about a week after Chrysler said Ralph V. Gilles would succeed Trevor M. Creed as vice president of design, effective Sept. 1. Mr. Creed, who is retiring after 23 years at the company, helped design the Viper.


Calling Viper "an integral part of this company's heritage," Mr. Nardelli promised to offer "strong operational and financial support during any potential transaction, in order to ensure a future for the Viper business and perpetuate the legacy of this great vehicle."


There is no timetable for the review, which Lazard Ltd. will assist in.
Chrysler, taken private last summer by Cerberus Capital Management LP after nine years as part of DaimlerChrysler AG, will concentrate on strengthening Dodge's core portfolio. For model year 2009, the brand will introduce four new vehicles.


Write to Mike Barris at mike.barris@dowjones.com

 

So what's next - hmmm

The Mercedes Viper, no
The Porsche Viper, nah
The ferrari Viper, nah nah, no way
ahhhh
The Tata Viper!

 

DJ, now that was funny...too bad I have to spread some rep around otherwise you'd have rep from me.

 

Thats great news! It would be a shame to kill such a great car.

 

The viper was supposed to have some sort of halo effect for the rest of the brand. Now that Chrysler is against the ropes. its time to see what assets have value . Nothing is safe.