Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
TDRAdmin4
Staff Member
[RAW]<P ALIGN="LEFT">Having heard rumors that
DaimlerChrysler may be bringing a number of diesel vehicles into the United
States this year, I attended the press preview of the Chicago Auto Show hoping
to find some truth to the rumors. My observation is that the rumors seem to be
false, at least when it comes to Chrysler products. I found no information
about the release of any new diesel models. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">I also attempted to get
information on the Turbo Diesel powertrain for 2007, again to no avail. The
only information available on the Ram product line was on the existing '06
models. Another continuing rumor is the release of a 4500 and 5500 product. You
guessed it! I found nothing new on that front either. So having busted out on
any of the hoped-for information, I took the time here to cover Dodge's new
model introduction (along with one new concept vehicle) and to scope out the
competition. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">I also shot several videos
which you can view by clicking on the link at the bottom of this article.
</P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Dodge
New Model Introduction</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Knowing that many of our
readers are Mopar fans, I'll go over Dodge's new model introductions. As with
most press introductions, the execution was a little hokey. This one took the
form of "The Driving Game," reminiscent of the Dating Game. You can watch the
complete video via the links at the bottom of the article. </P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>2007
Dodge Nitro</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The first vehicle out was
the 2007 Dodge Nitro, which was introduced as a concept vehicle at last year's
show. The Nitro is being touted as Dodge's first mid-size SUV. I thought the
Durango was considered a mid-size SUV, but from the specs on the Nitro, I
gather they are considering it a full-size SUV (making Ford's Expedition and
Excursion gargantuan?). The Nitro has two rows of seating and two V6 engine
options. The Nitro and Nitro SLT are equipped with a 210 hp/235 lb-ft, 3.7
liter SOHC V6, and the Nitro R/T comes with a 255 hp/275 lb-ft, 4.0 liter V6.
</P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro5.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro5.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro6.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro7.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro7.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro8.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro8.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>2007
Dodge Caliber SRT4</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Next out after the Nitro was
the Dodge Caliber SRT4, a vehicle obviously targeted at the younger buyer
looking at the "tuner" cars. The Caliber SRT4 is a wagon-style, four-door car
with tuner car styling. The emphasis is on the drivetrain: a 2.4 liter,
turbocharged, inline 4 utilizing variable valve timing and making 300 hp and
260 lb-ft of torque running through a Getrag six-speed manual transmission. 0
to 60 performance is under 6 seconds. </P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Dodge
Rampage Concept Vehicle</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The final introduction was
the Dodge Rampage concept vehicle. With a new Ram model probably being no more
than a few years away, this truck gives some clues as to future features and
styling of the Ram. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The notable feature is an
easily reconfigurable interior. With the exception of the driver's seat, all of
the seats can be folded down and stowed in the floor of the interior, providing
a lot of interior space for cargo. The center stack "floats" above the surface
of the instrument panel and can be pulled rearward and swiveled towards either
the passenger's or driver's side for access to navigation, HVAC, and
entertainment functions. The free-standing instrument cluster moves with the
adjustable steering column. All four doors are operated electrically, with the
rear door sliding rearward much like a minivan. A powered running board lowers
automatically when the doors are opened. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The back wall of the cab can
also fold down into the forward part of the cargo bed, much like the Chevy
Avalanche, allowing lengthier items to be carried without having to lower the
tailgate. The tailgate is a three position gate. It can be up, lowered 98
degrees (flat) or lowered further to 117 degrees. When lowered to the lowest
position, a store-in-the-tailgate slide-out ramp can be extended to the ground
to permit easy loading of wheeled cargo like motorcycles, ATV's, etc. The floor
of the bed is a dual bed allowing the stowage of cargo below the bed as well as
in it. Acting as a second tailgate, the rear bumper fascia also drops down to
reveal an enclosed storage space extending (with the seats up) far enough
forward to provide room enough to accomodate a stack of 4' x 8' plywood sheets.
</P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Other
Dodge Stuff: The Mega Cab, Challenger, Test Track</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">This event was my first up
close and personal look at the Mega Cab short bed dually. Having had
preconceived notions of the appearance of the dually fenders (which I didn't
like in the photos I'd seen), I was pleasantly surprised. It looks much better
than I had expected. I took several pictures at different angles to give you a
better idea look. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">A vehicle that really tugs
at my heart strings (and I imagine many other Mopar fans) is the Challenger
concept. It looks awesome in person, and I've included a video of a full
360-degree rotation of it in the videos at the bottom. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Dodge's test track is making
a return this year with a few additions. The car portion has a performance
section where you can experience the acceleration of the vehicles. The truck
test section has added an articulation area which lofts the left rear wheel in
the air. Once they get the trucks crossed up, they open the doors to showcase
the body strength and torsional rigidity of the chassis. Having off-roaded
trucks for years (and seeing how much the bed of a truck typically moves in
relation to the cab in a crossed up situation such as this), it was amazing how
little movement there is in the current truck (none noticable at all). I had
them open up both doors on the drivers side of the Mega Cab, and there were no
issues with either door, even in this extreme condition. Video of the truck
portion of the test track is also included below. The Jeep off-road portion of
the test track looked unchanged. And for the kids, there is a small test track
with a couple of go-kart type vehicles they can drive. </P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>The
Year of the Alternative Fuel Vehicles</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Both GM's and Ford's press
introductions were dominated by alternative fuel vehicles. Both made mention of
President Bush's State of the Union Address where he talked about E85 (85%
ethanol/15% gas fuel). GM's presentation started with comments about what a
great year 2005 was for GM, which was shocking given the recent news that we've
all heard about. GM and Ford both talked about plans to expand E85 fueling
stations, although their numbers disagreed. GM quoted working with Shell Oil
Products US and VeraSun Energy Corp. to add 26 additional E85 stations in the
greater Chicago area, while Ford talked about increasing the supply in Illinois
and Missouri by one third. Ford seems to be focusing on the midwest while GM
talks more about a "broader national GM campaign to boost the use and awareness
of ethanol-based E85 fuel in the US." </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">GM stated that they are a
leader in flexible-fuel vehicles with 1.5 million flexible-fuel vehicles
already on the road with nine models and adding an additional 400,000
manufactured vehicles in 2006. You can read more about GM's FlexFuel
initiatives at <A
HREF="http://www.livegreengoyellow.com">http://www.livegreengoyellow.com</A>.
Ford announced that they are working with the city of Chicago to put hybrid
vehicles into service as taxi cabs beginning in 2007 with 2% of Chicago's cabs
expected to be in service in 2007. Ford Escape Hybrid taxis are already in
service in New York City and San Francisco. You can view the Ford introduction
at the video link below. There was no word from DC regarding alternative fuel
vehicles. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Ford also had on display the
Super Chief concept truck. This truck is powered by a tri-fuel engine and can
run on hydrogen, ethanol, or gasoline and has at least 400 ft-lbs of torque on
all three fuels. </P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/gmc.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/gmc.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER">Chevy FlexFuel Avalanche</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">Ford Super Chief concept</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Medium
Duty Trucks</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">With the rumored and
anticipated release of a 4500 and 5500 product from DaimlerChrysler, I took a
look at some potential competitors for that product. GMC was showcasing a
TopKick 4500 outfitted by Monroe Truck Equipment with a "So Low suspension"
allowing the towing of any standard fifth-wheel trailer. A cursory look at the
hitch height of this TopKick shows a significantly lower bed height, but the
fifth-wheel hitch height still looks higher than a standard light duty truck to
me. The interior on the TopKick has a light-duty feel, making it more of a
luxury truck than past medium duty offerings. The back seat is an electrically
operated couch that can laid down flat. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">International is rolling out
the production version of the RXT that they showed as a pre-production truck
last year. The base engine in the RXT is the International VT365 V8 diesel
producing 230 hp/540 ft-lbs. It has a towing capacity of 23,000 lbs. They were
also displaying a fifth-wheel version of the RXT with a lower bed height
specifically for that market (the hitch height looked lower than the TopKick to
me). The fifth-wheel version of the RXT comes with the International DT570 I6
diesel with 310 hp/950 ft-lbs and has a towing capacity of 29,500 lbs.
</P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">They also introduced the new
MXT. The MXT is targeted at the "image truck market". It is a four-wheel drive
truck and is equipped with the International VT365 V8 diesel with 300 hp/530
ft-lbs and has a towing capacity of 16,000 lbs. At this time, it can only pull
bumper pull trailers. The MXT is their most "affordable" truck in the XT line
pricing out between $69,900 and $85,000. In additional to the civilian truck,
they are also working on a military version.</P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Interestingly,
International's line of trucks and engines meet the strict 2007 Federal and
California Emissions Standards. Their "Green Diesel Technology" vehicles
utilize a catalyzed diesel particulate filter and ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel
to significantly lower the emissions and odor of diesel-powered buses and
trucks. </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick5.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick5.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick6.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">GMC TopKick</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">International RXT 5th wheel</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation5.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation5.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">International RXT</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation6.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation7.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation7.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation8.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation9.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation7.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">International MXT</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>In
Conclusion</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">In conclusion there wasn't
much new here for our market. I noted no major changes for GM, Ford, or Dodge.
All three manufacturers had their 2006 model 3/4- and 1-ton trucks on display
with no information on 2007 models. We'll have to wait until later this year to
find out what the new emissions regulations will mean for us. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Finally, Dodge is having a
consumer event on February 10 at at 9:30 a.m. (according to Dodge the show
isn't scheduled to open until 10:00 a.m.) called "Dodge Ram Mega Musical
Chairs," where one lucky consumer will win a Mega Cab if they are sitting in
the truck when the music stops. So if you really want a Mega Cab and can't
afford one, here's your chance. Good luck! The show opens to the public on
Friday (February 10) at 10 a.m. (and closes at 10:00 p.m.). It runs through the
19th (it closes at 8:00 p.m. on the 19th). </P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Video</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER">For <B>TDR members</B>
only you can view video in Windows Media Player of the Dodge Caliber, Nitro,
and Rampage introduction, Challenger concept, and the Ford intro here:<BR>
<A HREF="Videos/06chicagovideoshi.phtml">High bandwidth users (DSL, Cable,
etc)</A><BR> <A HREF="Videos/06chicagovideoslow.phtml">Low bandwidth users
(dialup)</A><BR> <B>Windows Media Player required</B> </P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Submitted by: Steve
St.Laurent, TDR Webmaster</P>
<P> </P>[/RAW]
DaimlerChrysler may be bringing a number of diesel vehicles into the United
States this year, I attended the press preview of the Chicago Auto Show hoping
to find some truth to the rumors. My observation is that the rumors seem to be
false, at least when it comes to Chrysler products. I found no information
about the release of any new diesel models. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">I also attempted to get
information on the Turbo Diesel powertrain for 2007, again to no avail. The
only information available on the Ram product line was on the existing '06
models. Another continuing rumor is the release of a 4500 and 5500 product. You
guessed it! I found nothing new on that front either. So having busted out on
any of the hoped-for information, I took the time here to cover Dodge's new
model introduction (along with one new concept vehicle) and to scope out the
competition. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">I also shot several videos
which you can view by clicking on the link at the bottom of this article.
</P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Dodge
New Model Introduction</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Knowing that many of our
readers are Mopar fans, I'll go over Dodge's new model introductions. As with
most press introductions, the execution was a little hokey. This one took the
form of "The Driving Game," reminiscent of the Dating Game. You can watch the
complete video via the links at the bottom of the article. </P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>2007
Dodge Nitro</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The first vehicle out was
the 2007 Dodge Nitro, which was introduced as a concept vehicle at last year's
show. The Nitro is being touted as Dodge's first mid-size SUV. I thought the
Durango was considered a mid-size SUV, but from the specs on the Nitro, I
gather they are considering it a full-size SUV (making Ford's Expedition and
Excursion gargantuan?). The Nitro has two rows of seating and two V6 engine
options. The Nitro and Nitro SLT are equipped with a 210 hp/235 lb-ft, 3.7
liter SOHC V6, and the Nitro R/T comes with a 255 hp/275 lb-ft, 4.0 liter V6.
</P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro5.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro5.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro6.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro7.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro7.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/nitro8.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/nitro8.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>2007
Dodge Caliber SRT4</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Next out after the Nitro was
the Dodge Caliber SRT4, a vehicle obviously targeted at the younger buyer
looking at the "tuner" cars. The Caliber SRT4 is a wagon-style, four-door car
with tuner car styling. The emphasis is on the drivetrain: a 2.4 liter,
turbocharged, inline 4 utilizing variable valve timing and making 300 hp and
260 lb-ft of torque running through a Getrag six-speed manual transmission. 0
to 60 performance is under 6 seconds. </P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/caliber4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/caliber4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Dodge
Rampage Concept Vehicle</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The final introduction was
the Dodge Rampage concept vehicle. With a new Ram model probably being no more
than a few years away, this truck gives some clues as to future features and
styling of the Ram. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The notable feature is an
easily reconfigurable interior. With the exception of the driver's seat, all of
the seats can be folded down and stowed in the floor of the interior, providing
a lot of interior space for cargo. The center stack "floats" above the surface
of the instrument panel and can be pulled rearward and swiveled towards either
the passenger's or driver's side for access to navigation, HVAC, and
entertainment functions. The free-standing instrument cluster moves with the
adjustable steering column. All four doors are operated electrically, with the
rear door sliding rearward much like a minivan. A powered running board lowers
automatically when the doors are opened. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">The back wall of the cab can
also fold down into the forward part of the cargo bed, much like the Chevy
Avalanche, allowing lengthier items to be carried without having to lower the
tailgate. The tailgate is a three position gate. It can be up, lowered 98
degrees (flat) or lowered further to 117 degrees. When lowered to the lowest
position, a store-in-the-tailgate slide-out ramp can be extended to the ground
to permit easy loading of wheeled cargo like motorcycles, ATV's, etc. The floor
of the bed is a dual bed allowing the stowage of cargo below the bed as well as
in it. Acting as a second tailgate, the rear bumper fascia also drops down to
reveal an enclosed storage space extending (with the seats up) far enough
forward to provide room enough to accomodate a stack of 4' x 8' plywood sheets.
</P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/rampage4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/rampage4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Other
Dodge Stuff: The Mega Cab, Challenger, Test Track</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">This event was my first up
close and personal look at the Mega Cab short bed dually. Having had
preconceived notions of the appearance of the dually fenders (which I didn't
like in the photos I'd seen), I was pleasantly surprised. It looks much better
than I had expected. I took several pictures at different angles to give you a
better idea look. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">A vehicle that really tugs
at my heart strings (and I imagine many other Mopar fans) is the Challenger
concept. It looks awesome in person, and I've included a video of a full
360-degree rotation of it in the videos at the bottom. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Dodge's test track is making
a return this year with a few additions. The car portion has a performance
section where you can experience the acceleration of the vehicles. The truck
test section has added an articulation area which lofts the left rear wheel in
the air. Once they get the trucks crossed up, they open the doors to showcase
the body strength and torsional rigidity of the chassis. Having off-roaded
trucks for years (and seeing how much the bed of a truck typically moves in
relation to the cab in a crossed up situation such as this), it was amazing how
little movement there is in the current truck (none noticable at all). I had
them open up both doors on the drivers side of the Mega Cab, and there were no
issues with either door, even in this extreme condition. Video of the truck
portion of the test track is also included below. The Jeep off-road portion of
the test track looked unchanged. And for the kids, there is a small test track
with a couple of go-kart type vehicles they can drive. </P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A
HREF="/06chicago/pics/mega4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/mega4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>The
Year of the Alternative Fuel Vehicles</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Both GM's and Ford's press
introductions were dominated by alternative fuel vehicles. Both made mention of
President Bush's State of the Union Address where he talked about E85 (85%
ethanol/15% gas fuel). GM's presentation started with comments about what a
great year 2005 was for GM, which was shocking given the recent news that we've
all heard about. GM and Ford both talked about plans to expand E85 fueling
stations, although their numbers disagreed. GM quoted working with Shell Oil
Products US and VeraSun Energy Corp. to add 26 additional E85 stations in the
greater Chicago area, while Ford talked about increasing the supply in Illinois
and Missouri by one third. Ford seems to be focusing on the midwest while GM
talks more about a "broader national GM campaign to boost the use and awareness
of ethanol-based E85 fuel in the US." </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">GM stated that they are a
leader in flexible-fuel vehicles with 1.5 million flexible-fuel vehicles
already on the road with nine models and adding an additional 400,000
manufactured vehicles in 2006. You can read more about GM's FlexFuel
initiatives at <A
HREF="http://www.livegreengoyellow.com">http://www.livegreengoyellow.com</A>.
Ford announced that they are working with the city of Chicago to put hybrid
vehicles into service as taxi cabs beginning in 2007 with 2% of Chicago's cabs
expected to be in service in 2007. Ford Escape Hybrid taxis are already in
service in New York City and San Francisco. You can view the Ford introduction
at the video link below. There was no word from DC regarding alternative fuel
vehicles. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Ford also had on display the
Super Chief concept truck. This truck is powered by a tri-fuel engine and can
run on hydrogen, ethanol, or gasoline and has at least 400 ft-lbs of torque on
all three fuels. </P>
<P> </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/gmc.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/gmc.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER">Chevy FlexFuel Avalanche</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/superchief4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/superchief4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">Ford Super Chief concept</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Medium
Duty Trucks</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">With the rumored and
anticipated release of a 4500 and 5500 product from DaimlerChrysler, I took a
look at some potential competitors for that product. GMC was showcasing a
TopKick 4500 outfitted by Monroe Truck Equipment with a "So Low suspension"
allowing the towing of any standard fifth-wheel trailer. A cursory look at the
hitch height of this TopKick shows a significantly lower bed height, but the
fifth-wheel hitch height still looks higher than a standard light duty truck to
me. The interior on the TopKick has a light-duty feel, making it more of a
luxury truck than past medium duty offerings. The back seat is an electrically
operated couch that can laid down flat. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">International is rolling out
the production version of the RXT that they showed as a pre-production truck
last year. The base engine in the RXT is the International VT365 V8 diesel
producing 230 hp/540 ft-lbs. It has a towing capacity of 23,000 lbs. They were
also displaying a fifth-wheel version of the RXT with a lower bed height
specifically for that market (the hitch height looked lower than the TopKick to
me). The fifth-wheel version of the RXT comes with the International DT570 I6
diesel with 310 hp/950 ft-lbs and has a towing capacity of 29,500 lbs.
</P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">They also introduced the new
MXT. The MXT is targeted at the "image truck market". It is a four-wheel drive
truck and is equipped with the International VT365 V8 diesel with 300 hp/530
ft-lbs and has a towing capacity of 16,000 lbs. At this time, it can only pull
bumper pull trailers. The MXT is their most "affordable" truck in the XT line
pricing out between $69,900 and $85,000. In additional to the civilian truck,
they are also working on a military version.</P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Interestingly,
International's line of trucks and engines meet the strict 2007 Federal and
California Emissions Standards. Their "Green Diesel Technology" vehicles
utilize a catalyzed diesel particulate filter and ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel
to significantly lower the emissions and odor of diesel-powered buses and
trucks. </P>
<CENTER>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick5.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick5.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/topkick6.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/topkick6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">GMC TopKick</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation1.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation1.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation2.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation2.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation3.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation3.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">International RXT 5th wheel</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation4.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation4.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation5.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation5.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">International RXT</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation6.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation7.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation7.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation8.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation6.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER"><A HREF="/06chicago/pics/internation9.jpg">/06chicago/pics/thumbs/internation7.jpg#ad
</A></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD ALIGN="CENTER" COLSPAN="2">International MXT</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE> </CENTER>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>In
Conclusion</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">In conclusion there wasn't
much new here for our market. I noted no major changes for GM, Ford, or Dodge.
All three manufacturers had their 2006 model 3/4- and 1-ton trucks on display
with no information on 2007 models. We'll have to wait until later this year to
find out what the new emissions regulations will mean for us. </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Finally, Dodge is having a
consumer event on February 10 at at 9:30 a.m. (according to Dodge the show
isn't scheduled to open until 10:00 a.m.) called "Dodge Ram Mega Musical
Chairs," where one lucky consumer will win a Mega Cab if they are sitting in
the truck when the music stops. So if you really want a Mega Cab and can't
afford one, here's your chance. Good luck! The show opens to the public on
Friday (February 10) at 10 a.m. (and closes at 10:00 p.m.). It runs through the
19th (it closes at 8:00 p.m. on the 19th). </P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER"><B>Video</B></P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="CENTER">For <B>TDR members</B>
only you can view video in Windows Media Player of the Dodge Caliber, Nitro,
and Rampage introduction, Challenger concept, and the Ford intro here:<BR>
<A HREF="Videos/06chicagovideoshi.phtml">High bandwidth users (DSL, Cable,
etc)</A><BR> <A HREF="Videos/06chicagovideoslow.phtml">Low bandwidth users
(dialup)</A><BR> <B>Windows Media Player required</B> </P>
<P> </P>
<P ALIGN="LEFT">Submitted by: Steve
St.Laurent, TDR Webmaster</P>
<P> </P>[/RAW]
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