Chrysler Group Surprises Detroit Auto Show Attendees with Three New Concepts

DaimlerChrysler, caught napping with one of the most recognizable brands in the history of automobiles, needs to pick up its game

The Firepower concept looks as fast as its 425 horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI V8 is. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

and hit the market with a barrage of new products, if only to keep up with its General Motors' built rival Hummer. Of course, by doing so it just might open up new opportunities, garner greater market share and, low and behold, make more money. Look for something like the Jeep Gladiator in the near future.

Chrysler Super GT Teases Sports Car Enthusiasts

Is Chrysler attempting to reinvent its image or what? Reinstating the elegant, refined, yet powerful brand standard of days gone by, the Firepower looks as fast as its 425 horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI V8 is. This new "grand tourer" concept is based on Viper architecture, in a similar fashion to how Ford has

Chrysler's "Corvette fighting" Firepower goes from zero to 100 km/h in less than 4.5 seconds while its estimated top speed is no less than 282 km/h (175 mph). (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

developed its new GR-1 concept off of the back of its GT supercar.

The Firepower is a "Corvette fighter", commented Chrysler group senior vice president of design Trevor Creed to journalists when the conceptual drawing was released back in November. Zero to 100 km/h takes less than 4.5 seconds while its estimated top speed is no less than 282 km/h (175 mph), but its Viper suspension has been softened to create a ride similar to that of an Aston Martin, added Creed.

Similar to Mercedes-Benz top-tier AMG supercar lineup, the Firepower uses a variation of the same 5-speed automatic transmission with manual-mode actuation.