Topless Chrysler 300C Wows Auto Show Goers and Chrysler Execs Alike

Upping the luxury is "Royal Cream" leather trim on the seats and door trim, while the seatbelts have been integrated into the

The rear console adds a private club atmosphere to the rear seating area. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

seatbacks for a more finished appearance and greater safety. Enhancing safety is a rollover protection system, integrated next to the rear headrests. The A-pillars and windshield surround has been reinforced as well, capable of acting as a roll hoop if needed. ASC also claims side-impact protection remains good.

"Our goal was to create a vehicle that exceeded the market standards for crashworthiness and rigidity, or what is also referred to as body stiffness," stated Helios' project manager, Dr. Mostafa Rashidy. "Rigidity is critically important to convertibles, because without it a vehicle would feel 'loose' and will have compromised handling characteristics. And, thanks to engineering breakthroughs such as our cross-car bulkhead, longitudinal tunnel and

If produced, Chrysler would most likely drop the state-of-the-art Sony navigation and entertainment system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

lattice-like underbody assembly, we feel we've met all those goals--and not just for this car, but for virtually any sedan currently on the market."

If produced, Chrysler would most likely drop the state-of-the-art Sony navigation and entertainment system for its own integrated unit, which would be optional as it currently is sold on the 300C. The portable Sony system, making its North American debut, features 30-gigabytes of power and 3D visuals, as well as advanced infotainment functionality. It can download MP3 files or movies, and play them back through the car's 400-watt audio system and multiple screens; the latter integrated into the rear portions of the front seat headrests. The front monitor connects through to a full-colour, high-resolution rear-vision backup-assist camera as well.