Chrysler History

Interestingly, the founder of Chrysler, Walter Chrysler, worked for competitor General Motor's Buick division before starting his own car company. The goal then, as it is today, was to offer buyers affordable luxury cars. In the early years, Chrysler was considered the engineering leader among The Big Three, and with the launch of vehicles like the HEMI-powered Chrysler 300, proved itself capable of top-notch design. The Chrysler HEMI combination continued over the decades, and exists today courtesy of a familiar model, the Chrysler 300.

Upon the launch of the all-new Dodge Caravan, the upscale Chrysler Town & Country minivan made its debut, with a short wheelbase version labeled the Chrysler Voyager. Other models that provided Chrysler with needed sales included the Chrysler LeBaron, a luxurious convertible that was followed by stylish sedans including the Chrysler Concorde, and the modern 300's predecessor, the Chrysler 300M. At about the same time, the public was also introduced to the Chrysler Sebring convertible.

In the years to come, you can bet that Chrysler will be a player in alternative fuels and safety technology, despite a track record that includes canceling the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid soon after its release. Electric vehicles such as the Chrysler Circuit EV and Chrysler 200C EV highlight what's on the mind of Chrysler engineers, providing a glimpse of what's to come.