Chrysler Mulls Future of The Viper

Chrysler LLC announced today that it is preparing to explore strategic options for the Dodge Viper business.
This review comes as the Company focuses on enhancing its core business and leveraging its assets.
“We have been approached by third parties who are interested in exploring future possibilities for Viper,” said Bob Nardelli, chairman and chief executive officer – Chrysler LLC.
“We will do so keeping in mind the best interests of those who have shown tremendous support for the vehicle – including employees, suppliers, dealers and a worldwide group of loyal Viper owners and enthusiasts.”
The Viper is hand-built in a low-volume, modular process at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit, which operates largely independent of Chrysler’s other production facilities.
The vehicle was introduced as a concept vehicle at the 1989 Detroit auto show. It was first available as a production vehicle in the 1992 model year.
With the announcement, the Company emphasizes that it has not set a definitive timetable for completion of the review of its strategic options, no final decision has been made with regard to the Viper business, and there can be no assurance that any transaction will take place as a result of this process.
Chrysler has retained Lazard as its financial advisor in connection with this review.