On September 19, a Snake Skin Green Dodge Challenger SRT8 nicknamed Samantha crossed the finish line of the 7th annual Targa Newfoundland. The team wound up in second place in Class 9 Modified Large and 22nd overall. It was a success, according to driver Ralph Gilles -- the same Canadian who became Vice-President of Design at Chrysler LLC just 18 days earlier.
Targa Newfoundland is the longest and most challenging endurance race in the country. It is held over six days and 2,000 kilometers of winding roads.
Taking part in the event for a third year in a row, Ralph Gilles and his co-pilot Karen Wagner (USA) shared a Dodge Challenger MOPAR 'drag pak' chassis, which is an ultra-light car built just for drag racing.
Mr. Gilles is a true auto racing enthusiast. It's his hobby. Over the past 15 years, he participated in various autocross and road races. For him, competing in the Targa Newfoundland is a way to combine work and leisure. "You know, it's hard to call this a job, to be honest! It's so much fun," he says.
I recently chatted with Trevor Creed's successor and asked him a few questions about his new role as head of design at Chrysler. Obviously, we also discussed his passion for auto competition.
About his position as VP of Design...
Auto123.com - What can you tell us about being head of design at Chrysler?
Ralph Gilles - Well, I'm now managing the entire Design department. Previously, I was in charge of Trucks and, before that, Premium Passenger Cars. I'm heading a whole department, which is not only exciting but also intimidating.
Auto123.com - At 38, don't you think you're a bit young to occupy such a position?
 |
| The Snake Skin Green Dodge Challenger SRT8 nicknamed Samantha |
Targa Newfoundland is the longest and most challenging endurance race in the country. It is held over six days and 2,000 kilometers of winding roads.
Taking part in the event for a third year in a row, Ralph Gilles and his co-pilot Karen Wagner (USA) shared a Dodge Challenger MOPAR 'drag pak' chassis, which is an ultra-light car built just for drag racing.
Mr. Gilles is a true auto racing enthusiast. It's his hobby. Over the past 15 years, he participated in various autocross and road races. For him, competing in the Targa Newfoundland is a way to combine work and leisure. "You know, it's hard to call this a job, to be honest! It's so much fun," he says.
I recently chatted with Trevor Creed's successor and asked him a few questions about his new role as head of design at Chrysler. Obviously, we also discussed his passion for auto competition.
About his position as VP of Design...
Auto123.com - What can you tell us about being head of design at Chrysler?
Ralph Gilles - Well, I'm now managing the entire Design department. Previously, I was in charge of Trucks and, before that, Premium Passenger Cars. I'm heading a whole department, which is not only exciting but also intimidating.
Auto123.com - At 38, don't you think you're a bit young to occupy such a position?
 |
| Ralph Gilles and his co-driver Karen Wagner. |