DETROIT, MI – Visitors attending the 2004 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) will not only be able to see all of the new vehicles introduced by the Chrysler Group this week, they will have a chance to get behind the wheel and drive them in a virtual race to the finish line.

“Jeep® Trail Rated 4x4: The Unlimited Challenge,” “Project Gotham Racing Two: Dodge Magnum Edition” and “Project Gotham Racing Two: Chrysler 300 Edition” were created especially for the 2004 Detroit show and features the all-new 2004 ½ Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, 2005 Dodge Magnum and the 2005 Chrysler 300C. 

Dedicated video game kiosks set up in the Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep exhibits allow consumers to race the new vehicles against other opponents along a fast-paced track complete with hairpin turns and scenic views.  The games, which can also be seen by onlookers via large screens placed in the exhibit areas, were developed in partnership with Xbox® and Terminal Reality.

“Visitors to the auto show will be able to see the vehicles on display and then have an opportunity to take them for a thrilling ride in a race against other game players,” said Julie Roehm, Director-Marketing Communications, Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge.  “Consumers will be able to virtually test-out each of the vehicles before they hit the dealer's showrooms.” 

The games kick-off at the Black Tie Charity Preview for the 2004 NAIAS tonight at Cobo Center.  Following their "virtual test drive," participants will be given CD-ROMs that hold a variety of Chrysler Group games, computer wallpapers and screensavers, photos and more. 

Want To Race Again?
Online game publisher WildTangent has also created three online racing games, which can be accessed on the Chrysler.com, Jeep.com and Dodge.com Web sites starting in mid-January.  The games, “Jeep 4x4 Adventure,” “Chrysler West Coast Rally” and “Dodge Racing – HEMI® Edition” feature next generation graphics and leading-edge streaming capabilities enabling players to experience a racing-like quality on their PCs that is similar to actual gaming consoles.

“The online games are fun and present a sense of realism rarely found with an Internet experience,” said Alex St. John, CEO of WildTangent.  “By using our new Web Driver 4.0, we were able to recreate the true design characteristics of the Chrysler Group cars, trucks and SUVs.  Exciting special effects coupled with scenic backgrounds help to create a deep connection between the player and the game.”

“The vehicles, as well as the scenery, are very realistic, allowing a true-to-life driving experience,” added Roehm. 

The games can be played on three different tracks:  Coastline, Island Metro and Outback.  To better educate consumers on the vehicle's performance capabilities, vehicles will perform their best on the track that is ideally suited to its characteristic.  For example, the Jeep Wrangler 4x4 will handle best on the rugged course of the Outback. 

As the race progresses, players accumulate points that they can use to upgrade their vehicles, such as turning their Chrysler PT Cruiser into the new convertible model.  Points can also be used to add Mopar® accessories such as chrome tubular bumpers and grille. 

As new Chrysler Group vehicles are introduced they will be added to the game. Currently, the games feature the following vehicles:  

• Jeep 4x4 Adventure – Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Liberty, Grand Cherokee;
• Chrysler West Coast Rally – Crossfire, PT Cruiser, Pacifica, 300C;
• Dodge Racing – HEMI Edition – Ram 1500, Ram SRT-10, SRT-4, Durango and Magnum.

“Gaming is a fun and creative way to increase brand awareness, build brand loyalty and educate consumers on vehicle attributes,” said Roehm.  “As we move forward with the launch of nine new products into the marketplace, gaming not only helps to generate excitement, it also amplifies customer anticipation. 

Video games are created in partnership with BBDO Detroit.