Chrysler Group Announces Management Changes April 15, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC is pleased to announce the following changes to its Leadership Team effective today. Reid Bigland is named
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Chrysler Group Named Among “Top 50 Companies Creating Opportunities for Multicultural Businesses”
Chrysler Group Named Among “Top 50 Companies Creating Opportunities for Multicultural Businesses”
- Company selected in online election involving more than 1.3 million diversity business owners
- “Election” was conducted by DiversityBusiness.com, “the nation’s leading multicultural B2B online website”
- Since 1983, Chrysler Group has purchased more than $47 billion from minority-owned suppliers
May 23, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC has been named to DiversityBusiness.com’s 13th annual list of the 50 best companies providing opportunities for multicultural businesses.
Inclusion on the list this year was the result of an online election which involved more than 1.3 million multicultural business owners. Voters were asked to answer 10 questions about candidate company performance such as volume, consistency and quality of business opportunities these companies provide to minority-owned businesses.
DiversityBusiness.com “is the nation’s leading multicultural B2B online website.”
“Chrysler Group is celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of our supplier diversity program this year,” said Scott Kunselman, Senior Vice President – Purchasing & Supplier Quality, Chrysler Group LLC. “We remain as committed as ever to creating opportunities for minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned businesses because we believe that a diverse supply chain leads to better, more innovative products for our customers.”
Chrysler Group’s has a longstanding commitment to increasing purchasing from minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned suppliers. The Company’s supplier diversity goals require that 10 percent of a Tier 1 supplier’s procurement buy is sourced to certified minority suppliers. Indeed, since 1983 the Company has purchased more than $47 billion from these suppliers.
Chrysler Group announced early this year that it spent $2.1 billion with approximately 200 minority suppliers in 2011, representing 8.5 percent of its total annual purchasing. Overall, the Company purchased $31 billion in direct and indirect parts, materials and services in 2011.
The Company has also been a leader in launching breakthrough programs that stimulate more purchasing from minority-owned businesses, such as its annual Matchmaker program. Matchmaker is a unique event that provides minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned businesses access to Chrysler Group’s Tier 1 suppliers and to decision makers in the Company’s procurement organization. As the premier networking trade event in the automotive supplier community, this past year’s Matchmaker event grew to more than 2,400 participants, including 270 minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and majority-owned Chrysler Group suppliers.
Chrysler Group continues to support several organizations that assist Tier 1 suppliers with achieving their minority sourcing goals. These organizations include the National Minority Supplier Development Council, the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. In addition, Chrysler Group supports veteran-business ownership through membership with the National Veteran-Owned Business Association.
“While other awards and ‘Top’ lists crown companies for metrics such as overall economic growth and returns to shareholders, the DiversityBusiness.com Top 50 List is an indicator of which organizations provide the most business opportunities for diversity-owned companies,” said Kenton Clarke, CEO of DiversityBusiness.com. “Organizations that consistently buy the most products and services from diversity businesses, and that sustain the most mutually beneficial business relationships with their multicultural suppliers, should be recognized not only by the business community but also by the general public.”
About Chrysler Group’s leadership commitment to diversity, inclusion and diverse talent development
In 2012, the Detroit Free Press named Chrysler Group as one of the best places to work in the state of Michigan. Chrysler Group also has been named one of the “100 Best Companies for Working Mothers” by Working Mother magazine 13 times, and has been recognized six times by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation as one of the country’s leading companies supporting diversity and inclusion of LGBT employees.
Chrysler Group was named among the nation’s “Top Supporters” of Engineering Programs of Historically Black Colleges and Universities for the past three years, recognizing the Company’s efforts to develop, recruit and hire talented students pursuing technical careers at the nation’s minority-serving institutions.
Over the years, a long line of Chrysler Group employees have received important professional recognition from various diversity organizations, including Black Engineer of the Year, Women of Color, HENAAC Great Minds in STEM and others, reflecting the Company’s strong commitment to developing its diverse workforce.
The Chrysler Foundation Supports First Response Team of America’s Oklahoma Tornado Relief Efforts
The Chrysler Foundation Supports First Response Team of America’s Oklahoma Tornado Relief Efforts
May 22, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - In the wake of the devastating tornado that hit Oklahoma earlier this week, The Chrysler Foundation, the charitable arm of Chrysler Group LLC, today announced that it will provide $100,000 to First Response Team of America (http://firstresponseteam.org), a nonprofit disaster relief organization which assists local first responders with rescues and also provides help with cleanup efforts.
“We know that the road to recovery for the residents of Moore and Oklahoma City will be long,” said Reid Bigland, President and Chief Executive Officer – Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Chrysler Foundation is proud to support First Response Team of America’s efforts to help the people of Oklahoma get back on their feet.” The Ram Truck brand has an existing relationship with First Response Team of America, including donating three heavy-duty trucks to support their efforts.
First Response Team of America goes from disaster to disaster lending a hand and assisting with rubble and water rescues and cleanups, clearing roads, creating a way into the community by removing debris and pumping out floodwaters, powering up emergency rooms, nursing homes and shelters and clearing home sites for those without insurance. The team tracks weather conditions so it is positioned to be nearby and ready to assist when disaster strikes. The team’s heavy equipment includes Ram trucks, multi terrain loaders, cranes, lighting towers, plasma cutters and a hovercraft for water rescues.
Last year, the Ram Truck brand announced a partnership with The Weather Channel Companies (TWCC) and First Response Team of America. Sponsored by the Ram Truck brand, TWCC launched an exclusive cross-platform series of in-the-field “Responding by Storm” reports chronicling the works of the First Response Team of America.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Oklahoma,” said Jody Trapasso, President – The Chrysler Foundation. “We are heartened by their unwavering spirit during this difficult time and we are humbled to support the relief and recovery efforts.”
Chrysler Group and its brands have a long history of supporting its communities in their time of need. In the wake of last year’s Superstorm Sandy, the Ram Truck brand donated 20 Ram 1500 Tradesman trucks and $100,000 to the American Red Cross.
About Ram Truck Brand
The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they’d like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.
The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.
Chrysler Group Earns Fifth Consecutive Gold Medal for Promoting Healthy Employee Lifestyles
Chrysler Group Earns Fifth Consecutive Gold Medal for Promoting Healthy Employee Lifestyles
- Recognition from the National Business Group on Health identifies the nation’s leading corporations for innovative programs promoting a healthy workplace and employee lifestyles
- Chrysler Group is only automaker to receive award the past three years
- Award validates Company’s commitment to promoting “a culture of health” for employees and their families
May 22, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The National Business Group on Health (NBGH) has recognized Chrysler Group LLC as one of the nation’s leading corporations providing comprehensive programs that enable a healthy workplace and promote healthy lifestyles for employees and their families.
This year, Chrysler Group received a gold medal award for the fifth consecutive year. It was the third consecutive year that Chrysler Group was the only automaker to earn this recognition.
The NBGH’s Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles Award recognizes employers that have truly embraced a culture of wellness and are working collaboratively to improve their employees’ health, productivity and quality of life. Chrysler Group was among 65 employers that received the Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles Award in 2013. The Company accepted the award on May 22 at the National Business Group on Health’s Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.
“Chrysler Group recognizes that providing a healthy workplace and improving the health and well-being of our employees and their families is essential to the success of our business,” said Nancy A. Rae, Senior Vice President – Human Resources, Chrysler Group LLC. “The consistency with which we earn this recognition differentiates our Company as an employer of choice.”
The Chrysler-UAW National Wellness Program was implemented in 1985 for both represented and non-represented employees and is focused on promoting a healthier workplace, healthy life styles and reducing the risk of illness and chronic disease. The program is comprised of services offered in a wide range of formats, including health assessments, biometric screenings, workshops, campaigns and health coaching. Program topics are selected based on health assessments and screening results, disability data and employee interests. Incentives linked to wellness activities are used to increase employee participation.
“Supporting improvement of the health and well-being of our members is vital to developing the world class work environments that will support a successful and sustainable Company and union for the future,” said General Holiefield, UAW Vice President and Director of the UAW Chrysler Department. “On behalf of our members, we are proud to receive this recognition and to achieve a consistent level of excellence.”
“We are very pleased to recognize Chrysler Group for its ongoing commitment to providing lifestyle improvement programs that encourage healthy lifestyles for their employees,” said Helen Darling, President and CEO of the National Business Group on Health. “Chrysler Group and its management team should be proud for their dedication and recognizing the importance of promoting and maintaining a healthy workforce. We congratulate them on receiving this award.”
About Chrysler Group’s Commitment to Promoting a Culture of Health
Chrysler Group’s culture of health is a key part of the Company’s a high-performance work culture and is tied to its leadership principles, particularly promoting each team member’s commitment to achieving best in class performance. Chrysler Group’s goal is to support workplace policies and a work environment that inspire totally engaged employees who are healthy at work and at home, actively manage their health status and are sustainable, healthy contributors to the Company’s success.
SRT Viper Set for Return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans
SRT Viper Set for Return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans
Chrysler Group LLC’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) Motorsports Team Returns with First Factory-Supported Effort Since 2000
May 21, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the world’s oldest active sports car race. The first event was held in 1923 and for driver and machine, it’s the ultimate test of speed, efficiency and endurance. Participation is by invitation only as the Automobile Club de l‘Ouest (ACO) selects the 56 entries. The 81st edition is set for June 22-23 at Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France.Two identically prepared SRT Viper GTS-Rs will return to the Le Mans stage for the first time since finishing one-two in the GTS class three consecutive years – 1998-2000. SRT Motorsports accepted an invitation in February from ACO to field the two-car team in the LM GTE Pro class.“Racing is a cornerstone of Viper’s illustrious history,” said Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer – (SRT) Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Le Mans is a world stage. The GTS-R has enjoyed great success at Le Mans in the past and we’re excited to start a new chapter of Viper racing at that historic venue.”
The festive atmosphere and famous location of the semi-permanent race course southwest of Paris is a perfect international stage for the SRT brand.
“Racing is a big part of everything that SRT does,” said Beth Paretta, Director of Marketing and Operations – SRT Brand and Motorsports. “Racing is in our name – Street and Racing Technology – so the line is very blurred between what we do on the road and what we do on the track. We’ve enjoyed some past success at Le Mans, so you want to not only show well, but also run competitively on the track. The whole motorsports world is watching and it’s extremely exciting for us to be part of it and a big challenge to do well.”
Viper’s success in motorsports has served as a symbol to owners, the brand and even the company itself.
“Having the Viper return as a flagship, American sports car in general and SRT being elevated to a separate brand within Chrysler Group, it’s very symbolic for the company as a whole given the challenges we’ve faced over the last four years,” said Paretta. “It was like a beacon while they were going through the darkest days of the company, when you weren’t even sure if the company was going to exist. You had this wonderful network and group of owners who were so passionate and loved this car so much because of the community and the friends that they’ve made just by owning this special car. So the idea that it could have gone away was very sad for them. The fact that it survived is something that a lot of people rally around and are so happy and rightfully emotional about because it’s such a big part of their lives.
“Just a few short years ago, there was a question about our existence as a company. So after a few years of hard work, not only did we survive but we’re thriving. This SRT Motorsports effort is a symbol for the whole company – showing that we did fight back and we’re going to be fighting in a very real sense on the track.”
The Viper hasn’t been on the Le Mans stage since 2000 but Paretta and the SRT Motorsports team have a good idea what to expect. They attended the race last year to formulate a plan should an invitation come.
“We went to do some research should we ever get back on the track at Le Mans and were astounded by the interest shown by the amount of fans who lined up and waited to simply get a glimpse of our SRT Viper GTS-R show car and take photos,” said Paretta. People came wearing all sorts of jackets, both Viper jackets and competitor jackets and it was interesting too that they very much crave to see this American rivalry between the brands; they take such pleasure in watching them kind of duke it out on the track. There are Viper Clubs that are very strong in Europe. They travel great distances to see races and they’ll travel great distances to be together for activities such as road rallies and track days. The Viper Nation is truly a global entity.”
Although Le Mans was the target, the SRT Motorsports team is somewhat surprised it came so soon. “The goal was to get to Le Mans but none of us thought that we’d get there our first year out, honestly,” continued Paretta. “We’re not taking any minute of it for granted because of the process of either qualifying or getting invited. Because we had a short year last year, we had to rely on a direct invitation. You can see how hard everybody is working, putting their heart and soul into this because to be there is just amazing.”
It wasn’t until August last year that the SRT Viper GTS-R made its official return to the track, competing in the American Le Mans Series at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. While Le Mans is the biggest global race, Paretta quickly points out the importance of competing here at home.
“The American Le Mans Series and what will be United SportsCar Racing (the name of the consolidation of the two main North America sports car racing entities – ALMS and Grand-AM Road Racing) is the premiere sports car racing in North America. The North American market is very important,” Paretta commented. “That’s why a lot of the European brands choose the American Le Mans Series and Grand-Am Road Racing to showcase their cars in the GT Class.”
“We know this program is very important to SRT owners around the world. At every race, whether it’s in the American Le Mans Series or at Le Mans itself, we have owner experiences where they can be with our team for the weekend to enjoy a true VIP experience. Owners get a behind-the-scenes look at what’s going on, meet the drivers and ask questions of the engineers. Hopefully, we’ll continue to go to Le Mans for many years to come but as a sports-car fan, if you can make the trip even once, it’s worth it.”
It’s difficult to overlook Viper’s previous success at Le Mans but SRT Racing Manager Gary Johnson points out the competition has changed since that last visit.
“The rules have changed over the years but we’re going with the same commitment to do our best,” said Johnson. “Our plan is to be as competitive as we can and see what happens at the end. I think it’s a dream come true for anybody that’s been involved in motorsports as the 24 Hours of Le Mans is the pinnacle of sports car racing.”
Johnson is fully engaged in the process, even to the point of dreaming about the event. “It’s kind of funny,” he said. “I’ve been having dreams about Le Mans ever since we talked about getting invited. It’s just one dream that keeps repeating in my head. I’m thinking about it 24 hours a day I guess.”
From the SRT brand team to engineering, the perception of Le Mans is the same – the ultimate test.
“It means a lot to our customers because the racing pedigree of the car can largely be determined with this one annual race,” said Russ Ruedisueli, Head of SRT Motorsports Engineering – Chrysler Group LLC. “For our engineering team, it’s the ultimate endurance test to see how well we’ve developed the cars and seeing how they perform over 24 hours.”
“Everybody on the current team realizes our past success and how Viper teams before us have set a high standard. We can’t help but have that in the back of all of our minds, so we’ll work as hard as ever to hopefully live up to that same standard.”
SRT Motorsports has partnered with Riley Technologies, based in Mooresville, N.C., on the design-and-build process of the SRT Viper GTS-Rs. The two cars competed in four ALMS races in 2012 in preparation of the full 2013 season. In the first three races this year, the No. 91 has recorded three consecutive top-five finishes including a podium – third – at Long Beach. The driver stable includes Marc Goossens, Dominik Farnbacher, Jonathan Bomarito and Kuno Wittmer. They are joined by Tommy Kendall and Ryan Dalziel for the endurance events.
The Viper’s successful racing heritage began in 1996 with its first racing entry, the original GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997 to 1999 FIA GT championships in addition to the three consecutive one-two finishes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the GTS class.
About SRT Motorsports
The engineering expertise within SRT (Street and Racing Technology) extends well beyond its high-performance street vehicles. Technical support for the Chrysler Group’s various racing programs is provided by the astute engineers at SRT Motorsports, where lessons learned on the race track directly translate to improved vehicles for the company’s customers.
2013 Ram 1500 Named to 2013 Automobile Magazine All-Stars
2013 Ram 1500 Named to 2013 Automobile Magazine All-Stars
May 21, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Ram 1500 has been named a2013 Automobile Magazine All-Star by the publication’s editorial staff for the third time in the past four years.
“The Automobile Magazine All-Star award puts the 2013 Ram 1500 on top of other half-ton trucks in the market,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “This prestigious award doesn’t just focus on new trucks but all current model trucks and we’re proud to accept the honor.”
For 2013, the new Ram 1500 offers buyers best-in-class 25 MPG fuel efficiency, new technology and new features without sacrificing capability. Ram 1500–the most recognizable pickup on the road–marks a milestone for Ram as this truck delivers a truckload of pioneering and fuel-saving systems. Equipped with a choice of engines, including the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine or the award-winning Pentastar V-6, the Ram 1500 offers the best powertrains in the industry, known for their reliability.
Automobile Magazine’s testers put the luxurious Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn through its paces and were favorably impressed.
“The chocolate brown hide and thick stitching are of European quality, there’s real wood on the dash, and it comes without the tawdry veneer that looks like cheap plastic,” the article states. Automobile Magazine declares: “The Longhorn is the ultimate in cowboy cool.”
The 2013 Ram 1500 features first-in-segment technologies: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and active air suspension. The 2013 Ram 1500 is available in nine trim levels and starts at $23,900 including $1050 destination charge.
Ram engineers changed every area of the truck – from a newly designed frame to new engines and transmissions to a new interior with the next-generation Uconnect® Access system. With best-in-class ride and handling and best-in-class aerodynamics, the 2013 Ram 1500 delivers unmatched content, performance and capability to truck buyers.
About the Automobile Magazine All-Stars
Established in 1986, the Automobile Magazine All-Stars is a list of the best vehicles currently in production. Eligible vehicles are not limited to new or significantly changed. Automobile Magazine’s editorial staff searches for greatness in all segments, not an easy task in times of keen competition. This year’s list of 11 vehicles was finalized after days of testing last fall, following hours of discussion and voting by each of Automobile’s 16 editors and contributors.
About Ram Truck Brand
The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they’d like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.
The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.
Dodge Brand Launches New TV Commercial and Social Gaming Sweepstakes in Conjunction with Syfy and Trion Worlds ‘Defiance’ Partnership
Dodge Brand Launches New TV Commercial and Social Gaming Sweepstakes in Conjunction with Syfy and Trion Worlds ‘Defiance’ Partnership
- Co-branded television spot launches May 20, coinciding with first appearance of Dodge Chargers as hero vehicles in the ‘Defiance’ TV program airing Mondays at 9 p.m. on Syfy
- 30-second ‘Dodge Charger | Defiance’ ad follows the vehicle’s endurance from present day to the 2046 transformed planet Earth featured in TV show
- ‘Dodge Defiance Arkfall Sweepstakes,’ launching May 24 atwww.DodgeDefiance.com, includes social gaming component allowing fans to compete against one another and share stories on Facebook
- Weekly prizes awarded with one grand prize of trip for two to world’s largest pop culture event
May 20, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Dodge brand is extending its partnership with Syfy and Trion Worlds on the “Defiance” television show and online video game with a new television commercial and social gaming sweepstakes.
As the exclusive automotive sponsor, the Dodge brand “Defiance” partnership includes vehicle integrations in the TV show (Dodge Charger) and online video game (Dodge Challenger) as well as custom co-branded advertising and promotions crossing multiple media platforms, including television, digital, social media, mobile, gaming and on-demand. “Defiance” allows Dodge a prime opportunity to speak to its socially engaged customers.
The co-branded TV commercial, titled ‘Dodge Charger | Defiance,’ debuts May 20, in conjunction with the first appearance of the Dodge Charger as the hero vehicle driven by main character Nolan (Grant Bowler), the city of Defiance lawkeeper. The 30-second spot shows the endurance of the Charger as it survives obstacles in a changing world, ending with a transformed planet Earth in the year 2046 where “only the defiant survive.”
The spot will be posted on the brand’s YouTube page,www.youtube.com/dodge.
Dodge is also adding a social gaming component to the “Defiance” partnership with a “Dodge Defiance Arkfall Sweepstakes.” Fans of Dodge and Defiance can compete against each other and share unique stories to their friend’s Facebook News Feeds while vying for the grand prize of a trip for two to the world’s largest pop culture event taking place in California this summer. Weekly prizes will also be awarded, including gaming systems, the “Defiance” video game and Dodge brand merchandise.
On the “Defiance” television show and online game, “Arkfalls” are the remains of alien ships known as “Arks” and as they deteriorate, pieces of these ships plummet to the earth bringing with them resources, alien technology and more. In the Dodge social game and sweepstakes, Arkfalls will be released across the Internet from May 24 – June 25, and participants must locate the Arkfall to launch the social game of the week. Once a participant has completed the game, their faction (team) will receive a point into the weekly sweepstakes and the entrant will also receive one entry into the grand prize drawing. For more information on the sweepstakes or to register, visit www.DodgeDefiance.com or the Dodge brand Facebook page, www.facebook.com/Dodge.
“Defiance,” Syfy and Trion World’s first-ever convergence of television and online gaming featuring an interconnected world and storylines that co-exist throughout the scripted drama television series and online game, has been very successful since they debuted in April. To date, more than 21.4 million people have seen “Defiance” on Syfy and the program is ranked the top cable entertainment show in its timeslot among key demographic groups. Trion World’s online video game already has 1 million users.
Both the television series and game are standalone experiences that unfold concurrently in one world, however, they also seamlessly intertwine to create a dynamic interactive experience in which the show impacts the game, and the game influences the show.
About ‘Defiance’
Set in the near future, “Defiance” introduces an exotically transformed planet Earth, its landscapes permanently altered following the sudden – and tumultuous – arrival of seven unique alien races. In this somewhat unknown and unpredictable landscape, the richly diverse, newly-formed civilization of humans and aliens must learn to co-exist peacefully. Each week, viewers will follow an immersive character drama set in the boom-town of Defiance, which sits atop the ruins of St. Louis, Mo., while in the game, players will adventure in the new frontier of the San Francisco Bay area. The dramatic tapestry of the series and the intense action of the game will exist in a single universe where their respective narratives will inform one another and evolve together into one overall story.
The series stars Grant Bowler, Julie Benz, Stephanie Leonidas, Tony Curran, Jaime Murray, Graham Greene and Mia Kirshner. It is executive produced by Kevin Murphy (Desperate Housewives, Caprica, Hellcats) and Michael Taylor (Battlestar Galactica). Kevin Murphy serves as show runner. Scott Stewart (Legion, Priest) directed the pilot; Michael Nankin will serve as director/producer on the series. Defiance is produced by Universal Cable Productions. Among other accolades, the game was named “Best MMORPG” from GameSpy at the June 2012 E3 conference.
Two Title Wins for Mopar with Coughlin and Gray at NHRA Kansas Nationals
Two Title Wins for Mopar with Coughlin and Gray at NHRA Kansas Nationals
- Coughlin and Gray earn title wins for Mopar and special-edition silver Wally trophies in honor of the 25th anniversary of NHRA Kansas Nationals
- Coughlin reaches milestone 500th career Pro Stock round win on his way to his first win of the season and 53rd of his career
- After a win at the previous event in Atlanta, Gray wins third title of the season, and first consecutive victories of his career to take Funny Car championship lead
- Three Mopars reach semifinals in both Pro Stock and Funny Car classes
May 19, 2013 , Topeka, Kan. - For a second time this season, two Dodge entries doubled up to take title wins in both the Pro Stock and Funny Car classes at the NHRA Kansas Nationals with drivers Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Johnny Gray taking home special-edition silver Wally trophies in honor of the event’s 25th anniversary. Each driver’s trip to the winner’s circle was notable for number of reasons.
Before the final elimination round came down to a Mopar versus Mopar face-off between Coughlin and his teammate Allen Johnson, his second round victory gave him a milestone 500 career round wins. He becomes the fifth Pro Stock driver to reach that plateau along with Greg Anderson, Bob Glidden, Kurt Johnson, and Warren Johnson.
Coughlin advanced to his 88th career final round appearance to earn a 53rd career win with a 6.680-second pass at 206.20 mph over Johnson’s elapsed time of 6.698 sec (206.57 mph) after both drivers recorded .013 second reaction times. It was the third time this season that Coughlin was involved in an all-Mopar final elimination. Previously, the driver of the Jegs.com/Mopar Dodge Avenger was defeated by Vincent Nobile for the win in the season opening event at Pomona, then finished runner-up to Johnson at the Gatornationals.
“Any day you are hoisting a Wally at the end of the day is a good thing and it’s what you work for and that final round ranks up there with some of the best races I’ve ever won,” said Coughlin who maintains his second place spot in the points battle but is closing the gap on the leader Mike Edwards. “Today was extra-special for several reasons. We hadn’t won in a couple of years. To finally get a Wally on Sunday is exactly what the doctor ordered. We have been working hard and trying to work smart, and today was our day and it felt fantastic.”
“All of us at Mopar are excited to see Jeg (Coughlin Jr.) back in the winner’s circle after a strong start to the season and be part of his 500th round win milestone,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “We began a great partnership with Jeg last year and it’s great to see him back on top with this win at the Kansas Nationals. We look forward to seeing him contending for many more wins this year with the powerful Mopar HEMI engine under the hood of his Dodge. “
“We do take trips down memory lane occasionally and this is one of those times,” added Coughlin in speaking about the 500 round wins that have helped him earn 52 class wins and four championships. “We’ve been fortunate to win a lot of great races and win a lot of great championships. It’s a testament to everyone who has been behind us all those years. It’s been a product of 15 years of dedication from a lot of great teams I have worked with. It’s a testament to them from our family teams in the beginning to the Cagnazzi group, Schumacher and now with Allen Johnson.”
The defending winner at Heartland Park, Johnson won his match ups against Deric Kramer, Greg Anderson, and Roger Brogdon in the Mopar Express Lane Dodge to make his 39th final round appearance and finish runner-up to Coughlin. Johnson remains third in the Pro Stock standings.
Nobile beat fellow HEMI-powered Dodge of V. Gaines before upsetting no.1 qualifier and points leader Edwards in round two. That put Nobile among the three Mopars to make the semifinals where he was defeated by Coughlin, but earned enough points to move up a spot into sixth place in the championship.
While three Mopars made the semifinals in Pro Stock, the same transpired in Funny Car with Dodge Charger R/T contingent of Johnny Gray, Jack Beckman and Ron Capps all advancing. Matt Hagan’s ‘Magneti Marelli Offered by Mopar’ wasn’t quite as lucky falling in the first round to Bob Tasca.
In the semifinals, Beckman, who was the defending event winner, fell to Gray who would meet up for a final round elimination against Robert Hight after he defeated Capps. Gray earned his first victory at the Heartland Park Topeka track in the Pitch Energy Dodge Charger with a final run of 4.067 seconds (314.90 mph) after Hight lost traction early in the run.
Gray is having a banner year for Mopar and his Don Schumacher Racing team. With a victory at the previous event in Atlanta, not only does he have wins in back-to-back races for the first time in his career, bringing his career total to six, but he now also has sole possession of the points lead in the Funny Car championship for another career first. Highlights for Gray this season also include wins in all three of his final round appearances with his Dodge Charger R/T, a no.1 qualifier position at Phoenix and a semifinal appearance in the season opener at Pomona.
“My crew chief Rob (Wendland) gave me a great race car that ran real hard all day,” said Gray. “Sometimes you can win races on an intimidation factor and Rob had her tuned up to where she was a little intimidating today. My guys are giving me a car I can’t screw up in right now.”
“It was great to see Don Schumacher Racing’s Johnny Gray add a third win today to the strong start to the year he’s had in the Dodge Charger R/T,” Gorlier said. “Earning wins in both Pro Stock and Funny Car classes for the second time this year after first doing it at the Gatornationals, is a great way to reinforce all the hard work that Mopar HEMI-powered teams and drivers are putting in early in the season to defend both World titles.”
Mopar teams and drivers will return to competition in two weeks for the 44th annual Toyota NHRA Summernationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park near Englishtown, New Jersey, for the ninth event on the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series schedule.
PRO STOCK (season wins in parentheses)
1. Mike Edwards (2) – 723
2. Jeg Coughlin Jr. (1) – Dodge Avenger – 647
3. Allen Johnson (2) – Dodge Avenger – 602
4. Erica Enders-Stevens (1) – 526
5. Jason Line (1) – 505
6. Vincent Nobile (1) – Dodge Avenger – 465
7. Shane Gray – 456
8. Greg Anderson – 424
9. V. Gaines- Dodge Avenger – 403
10. Greg Stanfield – 353
FUNNY CAR (season wins in parentheses)
1. Johnny Gray (3) – Dodge Charger R/T – 591
2. Cruz Pedregon (2) – 581
3. Matt Hagan (1) – Dodge Charger R/T – 568
4. Ron Capps (1) – Dodge Charger R/T – 512
5. Courtney Force (1) – 485
6. Tim Wilkerson – 457
7. Robert Hight – 447
8. Jack Beckman, Dodge Charger R/T – 444
9. Del Worsham – 397
10. John Force – 385
Johnson and Gray Top Mopar Qualifiers at Kansas Nationals
Johnson and Gray Top Mopar Qualifiers at Kansas Nationals
- Mopar qualifies third in Pro Stock and fourth in Funny Car at the 25th annual NHRA Kansas Nationals
- Johnson is top Mopar Pro Stock entry with a third place qualifying position
- Gray qualifies fourth as top Mopar entry in Funny Car class
- Johnson and Coughlin had exact same e.t. and incremental times on their second qualifying runs with just .16 mph difference
- Coughlin aiming for his 500th round win at Topeka
May 18, 2013 , Topeka, Kan. - Under grey skies and humid conditions at Heartland Park near Topeka, Mopar drivers wrapped up two days of qualifying in preparation for Sunday’s 25th annual NHRA Kansas Nationals. Defending Pro Stock winner of the event, Allen Johnson was the top Mopar entry with a third place qualifying spot, while Johnny Gray was fourth quickest to lead the Dodge Charger R/T Funny Car contingency.
Johnson quickest run was made in Friday’s second qualifying session when both he and teammate Jeg Coughlin Jr. not only posted the exact same elapsed time of 6.633 seconds, but matched incremental times as well at 60 ft (0.997 sec), 330 ft (2.784), 660 ft (4.272) and 1,000 ft (5.553) marks. Only a 0.16 mph difference put the Johnson’s Mopar Express Lane Dodge in third spot ahead of the Jegs.com Mopar with the quicker speed of 208.62 mph.
Johnson wrapped up qualifying on a high note by setting the quickest elapsed time of the final Pro Stock session to add three more bonus points to his total, but remained third to no.1 qualifier Mike Edwards who posted his seventh pole position in eight events.
“We’re making gains and that’s the goal,” said Johnson who has two wins in the last three years at the higher altitude track. “We were third in two sessions and then quickest in that last one and that gives us a bit of a confidence boost heading into eliminations. We knew Jeg (Coughlin Jr.) and I were pretty close but to see the numbers match up like that on Friday was pretty neat and shows just how consistent we can be. Conditions should be just about the same on Sunday and hopefully the rain will hold off so we can do our best to get through as many rounds as we can.”
Johnson will match up with Deric Kramer in the first round of eliminations while Coughlin, who qualified fourth, will face Greg Stanfield.
“I’m happy with the way we’ve started here at Heartland Park,” said Coughlin who could reach a milestone 500 round victories in his Pro Stock career by reaching the semifinals on Sunday. “We were second in the first session and fourth the other three runs. I’m real confident the car is going to continue to perform well, and I feel great behind the wheel. I like the total package we’ve brought to the track this weekend.”
The HEMI-powered entries of V. Gaines and Vincent Nobile qualified eighth and ninth respectively and will face each other in the first round of eliminations.
In Funny Car qualifying, the top eleven cars were all in the 4.0-second range with John Force lowering the e.t. track record to 4.043 (313.22mph) to earn the pole position. Don Schumacher Racing’s Johnny Gray put his Mopar fourth on the scoring sheets with a 4.053-second (313.37 mph) final run and will meet Alexis DeJoria in the first round of eliminations.
Matt Hagan’s “Magneti Marelli Offered by Mopar” Dodge Charger R/T was sixth with his e.t. of 4.069 seconds and he’ll face Bob Tasca in first round action. Don Schumacher Racing teammate and defending winner at Topeka, Jack Beckman made his quickest pass of the weekend on his final run (4.081 sec /312.42 mph) to keep him ninth on the timing charts. He will face Cruz Pedregon as his first match up while Mopar teammate Ron Capps was tenth (4.087 / 309.77) and has Tim Wilkerson for his first round competitor.
ESPN2 and ESPN2HD will provide coverage of this weekend’s 25th annual NHRA Kansas Nationals, the eighth of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, with a three hour broadcast of the elimination rounds on Sunday, May 19, starting at 8 p.m. (ET) from Heartland Park near Topeka.
PRO STOCK Qualifying Results (e.t. / top speed)
1. Mike Edwards – 6.618 sec / 208.55 mph
2. Erica Enders-Stevens – 6.625 / 208.30
3. Allen Johnson, Dodge Avenger – 6.633 / 208.62
4. Jeg Coughlin, Dodge Avenger – 6.633 / 208.46
5. Shane Gray – 6.640 / 208.04
6. Greg Anderson – 6.655 / 207.88
7. Jason Line – 6.657 / 208.20
8. V. Gaines, Dodge Avenger – 6.658 / 208.52
9. Vincent Nobile, Dodge Avenger – 6.666 / 207.78
10. Matt Hartford – 6.667 / 207.53
11. Larry Morgan – 6.668 / 206.99
12. Rickie Jones – 6.669 / 207.88
13. Greg Stanfield – 6.699 / 206.54
14. Deric Kramer – 6.709 / 205.07
15. Rodger Brogdon – 6.723 / 206.35
16. Steve Kent –6.742 / 206.01
FUNNY CAR Qualifying Results (e.t. / top speed)
1. John Force – 4.043 sec / 313.22 mph
2. Courtney Force – 4.050 / 315.56
3. Robert Hight – 4.050 / 315.12
4. Johnny Gray, Dodge Charger R/T – 4.053 / 313.37
5. Del Worsham – 4.065 / 313.15
6. Matt Hagan, Dodge Charger R/T – 4.069 / 312.57
7. Tim Wilkerson – 4.071 / 310.55
8. Cruz Pedregon – 4.079 / 302.55
9. Jack Beckman, Dodge Charger R/T – 4.081 / 312.42
10. Ron Capps, Dodge Charger R/T – 4.087 / 309.77
11. Bob Tasca III – 4.094 / 314.02
12. Chad Head – 4.105 / 310.13
13. Alexis DeJoria – 4.119 / 303.30
14. Jeff Arend – 4.132 / 306.60
15. Dale Creasy Jr. – 4.297 / 284.45
16. Tony Pedregon – 4.628 / 270.81
Mopar’s 2012 NHRA Champs Johnson and Beckman Look to Defend National Title Wins at Kansas
Mopar’s 2012 NHRA Champs Johnson and Beckman Look to Defend National Title Wins at Kansas
- Mopar competes in the 25th annual NHRA Kansas Nationals this weekend, the 8th of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Series season
- Mopar’s 2012 NHRA Champs Johnson and Beckman are also both defending winners at Heartland Park Kansas
- Coughlin and Hagan running strong in second place in the NHRA Pro Stock and Funny Car points standings.
May 17, 2013 , Topeka, Kan. -
Not only will Mopar take on to the 25th annual NHRA Kansas Nationals as the defending winner in both Pro Stock and Funny Car categories, but last year’s two title winners also went on to earn their first career NHRA Championships, so you’ll have to forgive Allen Johnson and Jack Beckman for hoping that their defense of those victories might have a similar ending this season as well.
“Every single title the J&J racing team won last year was very important in our chances to become number one at the start of the Countdown and take a run at the championship but Topeka win gave us the confidence that we were headed down the right path,” said Johnson who had a near perfect weekend at the 2012 edition of the Kansas Nationals by securing the top qualifier position, taking almost every bonus point and working his way through the elimination rounds to post his second win of the season on his way to his first world championship title with a total of seven wins and 11 final-round appearances.
“We need a little bit of that right now as our focus has been a bit off in the last three weeks,” admitted Johnson who after posting wins at the Gainesville and Las Vegas, hasn’t made it past the second round of eliminations in the last three events. “We’re shooting to bounce back in Topeka and doing everything we can to get back to fine form. It’s an altitude track at which the HEMI-powered Mopar Dodge Avenger normally does really well at, just like Vegas and Denver. The key to doing well at here is having the tune-up correct at altitude.”
Both he and Mopar teammate Jeg Coughlin Jr. tested at Tulsa Raceway Park in Oklahoma as preparation for this weekend’s event to try and close the gap to rival Mike Edwards in the both the points battle and on the track.
“We’re working on getting more consistent and getting a better combination for our Mopars,” said Johnson who has two ‘Wallys’ at Topeka in the last three years and would like to add another as quickly as possible. “I think we’ve gained a little on Mike (Edwards) in the past few weeks, cutting his advantage a bit at a time. He’s been quickest qualifier every weekend but Atlanta, when Jeg got it. He’s the front runner right now but I think we cut the deficit in half on what he was leading on everybody since the start of the year.”
For his part, Don Schumacher Racing’s Jack Beckman is looking forward to returning to the place where his own drive for the 2012 Funny Car world title began and getting back to winning more elimination rounds to move up from his seventh spot in the points standings.
“We haven’t been horrible; we have six round wins but we expected much bigger things by now,” said Beckman. “This could be a big shot in the arm for us, emotionally going back to the place where our run to the championship kind of officially took off last year.”
Meanwhile two other Mopar drivers have a bit of momentum and good results both finding themselves in second place in their respective classes; Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Matt Hagan.
Hagan has the ‘Magneti Marelli Offered by Mopar’ Dodge Charger R/T second in the Funny Car points standings on the strength of a title win at Charlotte, one No. 1 qualifier position, two runner-ups and a semifinal finish in seven events for Don Schumacher Racing.
Coughlin for his part jumped into second place in the Pro Stock points with a No. 1 qualifier position at Houston and two final round appearances and posting three semifinal finishes in the first seven events of the season. He now has his sights set on taking the Jegs.com Mopar Dodge Avenger to a semifinal appearance in Kansas to help mark his 500th round win in NHRA Pro Stock competition. Only 11 other drivers have achieved that milestone; Joe Amato, Greg Anderson, Kenny Bernstein, Larry Dixon, John Force, Bob Glidden, Kurt Johnson, Warren Johnson, Cory McClenathan, Tony Schumacher and Tony Pedregon.
ESPN2 and ESPN2HD will provide coverage of this weekend’s 25th annual NHRA Kansas Nationals, the seventh of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, with two hours of qualifying highlights on Saturday, May 18, at 5:30 p.m. (ET) and then a three hour broadcast of elimination rounds coverage on Sunday, May 19, starting at 8 p.m. (ET) from Heartland Park near Topeka.
2013 NHRA Championship Points Standings (after 7 races):
PRO STOCK (season wins in parentheses)
1. Mike Edwards (2) – 656
2. Jeg Coughlin Jr. – Dodge Avenger – 530
3. Allen Johnson (2) – Dodge Avenger – 501
3. Erica Enders-Stevens (1) – 482
5. Jason Line (1) – 472
6. Shane Gray – 421
7. Vincent Nobile (1) – Dodge Avenger – 393
8. Greg Anderson – 380
9. V. Gaines- Dodge Avenger – 370
10. Greg Stanfield – 322
FUNNY CAR (season wins in parentheses)
1. Cruz Pedregon (2) – 547
2. Matt Hagan (1) – Dodge Charger R/T – 534
3. Johnny Gray (2) – Dodge Charger R/T – 474
4. Ron Capps (1) – Dodge Charger R/T – 440
5. Tim Wilkerson – 423
6. Courtney Force (1) – 421
7. Jack Beckman, Dodge Charger R/T – 372
8. Robert Hight – 343
9. Del Worsham – 342
10. Alexis DeJoria – 326
About Mopar Motorsports
Mopar’s commitment to professional motorsports competition was established in the 1950s when a partnership ignited with drag racing pioneer Don Garlits, resulting in the breaking of numerous speed and performance barriers in HEMI®-powered vehicles over the next several decades. In 2013, Mopar looks to defend its two NHRA 2012 World Championship titles in Pro Stock and Funny Car categories, and celebrates 25 consecutive years as title sponsor of the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Colorado. While Mopar remains involved in a various professional motorsports series, it continues to honor its roots by being a proud supporter of amateur racing within the NHRA with its sponsorship of the HEMI Challenge and Mopar Sportsman Cup.
Mopar’s commitment to professional motorsports competition was established in the 1950s when a partnership ignited with drag racing pioneer Don Garlits, resulting in the breaking of numerous speed and performance barriers in HEMI®-powered vehicles over the next several decades. In 2013, Mopar looks to defend its two NHRA 2012 World Championship titles in Pro Stock and Funny Car categories, and celebrates 25 consecutive years as title sponsor of the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals in Colorado. While Mopar remains involved in a various professional motorsports series, it continues to honor its roots by being a proud supporter of amateur racing within the NHRA with its sponsorship of the HEMI Challenge and Mopar Sportsman Cup.
Chrysler Group LLC’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) Brand Kicks Off Third Consecutive 2013 SRT Tour
Chrysler Group LLC’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) Brand Kicks Off Third Consecutive 2013 SRT Tour
- First 2013 SRT Tour stop kicked off May 9-12 at American Le Mans Series in Monterey, Calif.
- The 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8 and Chrysler 300 SRT8 along with 2014 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT vehicles to be on display
- The all-new 2013 SRT Viper on display at select locations
- The third year of SRT Tour will visit unique lifestyle events over three-month span
May 17, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - For the third consecutive year, the SRT Tour, showcasing the latest high performance vehicles from Chrysler Group LLC’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand, will unleash four drivers and four SRT vehicles on a cross-country journey, providing enthusiasts and owners from coast-to-coast with the opportunity to experience the 2013 SRT lineup of vehicles at unique venues. The 2013 SRT Tour hit the ignition this past weekend, in Monterey, Calif., at the American Le Mans Series race weekend at Laguna Seca Raceway.The three-month tour will showcase the current SRT vehicle lineup, including the Dodge Challenger SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8, Chrysler 300 SRT8, newly launched 2014 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT and, with select appearances by the 2013 SRT Viper, giving attendees a sneak peek at the all-new version of the iconic supercar. Attendees will have the chance to chat about the vehicles with an experienced and knowledgeable roster of SRT drivers, including John “Hammer” Palazzolo, Sean Yoder, Jamie Jantz and Rachel Miller.
“We’re excited to travel the country for the third summer in a row and share our entire SRT lineup with the thousands of high-performance fans and loyalists,” said Beth Paretta, Director of Marketing and Operations – SRT Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Building off the success we’ve had over the last two SRT Tours, our team always looks forward to showcasing the power, performance, luxury and security features offered on all of our SRT vehicles.”
In addition to Laguna Seca, SRT Tour stops in May include an enthusiast car show in Riverside, Calif., Cars and Coffee in Irvine, Calif., and a Tour stop at Bill Luke Dodge in Phoenix, Ariz. A mix of unique, upscale locations will fill out the remainder of the 2013 SRT Tour events, with visits to elite car enthusiast events and premier racing facilities on the horizon.
For more information on the 2013 SRT Tour, visit www.drivesrt.com/tour. To experience every Tour adventure through photos, videos and posts from the road, follow the SRT Tour on the SRT brand’s Facebook (www.facebook.com/driveSRT), Twitter (@SRTtour) and Instagram (#SRTtour) pages.