2005 Chrysler Town & Country Minivan
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Chrysler Group "Floors" Minivan Competition With Yet Another Leapfrog
2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans first to offer "Stow 'n Go"
Minivan-first feature allows owners to fold second- and third-row seats into the floor with virtually effortless one-hand operation
Stow 'n Go is one of more than 15 new features on the new 2005 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan
Best-looking minivans to offer even more safety features and the most refined driving experience
Company invests more than $400 million to create all-new platform and bring new minivans to market in just 18 months
Auburn Hills, Mich. - The company that invented the minivan category 20 years ago is working its magic again.
With more than 10 million minivans sold and a segment-leading 38 percent market share, the Chrysler Group today revealed Stow 'n Go and even more minivan-first features on its new 2005 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Dodge Grand Caravan. The company's new minivans will arrive in Chrysler and Dodge dealerships early next year.
Chrysler Group invested more than $400 million to create an all-new platform and bring its new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans to market in just 18 months.
"Stow 'n Go represents yet another leapfrog for the Chrysler Group in the minivan market segment," said Dieter Zetsche, President and Chief Executive Officer, Chrysler Group. "Stow 'n Go offers unmatched convenience, versatility, and storage. It gives customers the ability to easily fold their second- and third-row seats into the floor and conveniently store items. Stow 'n Go is one of more than 15 new features and safety enhancements to look for on our new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans."
With Stow 'n Go, owners of new 2005 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans will have the ability to fold their second- and third-row seats into the floor in as little as 30 seconds with a simple, one-hand operation. Stow 'n Go will be standard on the company's highline long-wheelbase minivans which include the 2005 Chrysler Town & Country LX, Touring and Limited, and the 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. Stow 'n Go will also be available on 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan SE.
"With 20 years of minivan experience and more than 10 million sold, we will continue to enhance the minivan formula in order to attract even more customers to the segment and keep minivan fans coming back for more," said Zetsche. "At Chrysler Group, we take great pride in every single feature that we invent and every single minivan that we put on the road. Minivans are part of this company's DNA and synonymous with the Chrysler Group."
In addition to the segment's only Stow 'n Go seating system, following is a complete list of available new features on the 2005 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Dodge Grand Caravan:
SEATING AND STORAGE
256 Seating Configurations
New 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans offer up to 256 seating configurations
Minivan-First Stow 'n Go Seating
Second-row bucket seats may be folded into the floor with virtually effortless one-hand operation. Third-row split bench (60/40) may be folded individually or in its entirety into the floor with same virtually effortless one-hand operation. With safe, smooth, integrated Stow 'n Go seat operation, pinched fingers may be avoided. Headrests do not need to be removed before seats are folded into the floor
Secure, Covered Stow 'n Go Storage
When second-row seats are in the upright position, two spacious storage bins are available. Second-row storage bins are equipped with integrated lids to keep items out of sight and securely tucked away. Both second- and third-row storage bins combined create an additional 12 cubic feet of space
Minivan-First Storage Bin Bags
Cargo net bags are standard and adjust to fit into each storage bin, allowing for quick, easy removal of storage items
Minivan-First Super High Density (SHD) Foam Cushion Seating
Originally developed by NASA to improve seat comfort for astronauts, this foam cushion comfort technology is also used in high-end home and office furniture, aerospace, medical, and Tempur-Pedic® mattresses
Second-Row Seat Fore/Aft Adjusters and Reclining Seat Backs
Second-row seats move forward and back and offer 100 mm of seat travel. Second-row seat back reclines up to 40 degrees, offering 13 different positions from which to choose
Minivan-First Outboard Break-Away Cup Holders
If outboard second-row seat cup holders are left deployed as seats are folded into the floor, mechanism releases the cup holder and allows the seat to be folded into the floor, leaving the cup holder intact
Minivan-First Third-Row Easy Entry System
With a pull of a single strap, the second-row seat tumbles out of the way and allows for easy entry into the third row
Minivan-First Split-Bench Tailgate Seating
In split seconds, the third-row split bench (60/40) may be flipped, individually or in its entirety, completely rearward for convenient, comfortable tailgate seating complete with a weather shelter provided by the liftgate
Reclining Third-Row Seat
Third-row seat back reclines up to 39 degrees, offering 12 different positions from which to choose
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Three-Row Supplemental Side Curtain Air bags
Three-row, A-to-D pillar side curtain air bags provide full-length coverage for all rows of seats. The side curtain extends protection to all outboard passengers. Both side curtain air bags have impact sensors, which trigger the air bag on the side where impact occurs
Minivan-First Driver-side Inflatable Knee Blocker
The knee blocker inflates in conjunction with air bag deployment. It helps position the driver relative to the air bag and offers additional upper leg protection
Advanced Multi-stage Front Air Bags
Provides enhanced protection for a greater range of occupants at various deployment levels, based on the severity of an impact
Occupant Classification System (OCS)
Determines the conditions for activation or deactivation of the passenger-side front air bag, based on the weight of the occupant
BeltAlert
Chrysler Group's new enhanced seat belt reminder system. If a vehicle is driven without the driver being properly belted, the system will periodically activate a chime and illuminate a light in the instrument cluster to remind the driver to buckle up
Child Seat Anchor System
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children(LATCH) help ease the installation of compatible aftermarket child seats. In addition to second-row seats, this feature is now available in the third-row seating of the new 2005 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan with Stow 'n Go seating
Rear Park Assist
Rear obstacle detection system with audible warning and rear overhead display
Minivan-First Standard Door Alert
Signal lights activate when power sliding doors or manual sliding doors are in operation, signaling occupants getting in or out of the vehicle. Feature is standard on all 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans (late availability)
EVEN MORE FEATURES
Minivan-First Factory-Installed UConnect™ Hands-Free Communication
Integrated into the vehicle's electrical and audio system, wireless Bluetooth® technology links to the customer's cell phone. Control buttons are intuitive and conveniently located on the rearview mirror
Minivan-First Movable/Removable Bins with Overhead Rail System
Includes overhead console with three movable/removable storage bins, rear temperature controls, and an optional DVD screen
Navigation System
Available as factory-installed or through Mopar®, this single DVD solution contains mapping, points of interest, and business phone numbers throughout the United States. The 4.2-inch full-color display is integrated into the center stack and features AM/FM stereo, CD player, and navigation system in one unit. Screen may be viewed as a detailed map or enlarged and includes detailed turn-by-turn directions
SOUND OF QUALITY: MOST REFINED DRIVING EXPERIENCE
2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans continue to offer the most refined driving experience in terms of comfort and quietness, an experience that communicates confidence and quality. For 2005, Chrysler Group engineers enhanced this experience by further reducing noise, vibration and harshness:
Quiet Steel
Quiet steel technology was utilized in the recessed floor. The steel has a visco-elastic treatment sandwiched between two steel layers that reduces vibration, road noise, and stone impingement
Liquid-Applied Spray Dampener
Robotically applied liquid spray dampener technology provides barrier to noise entering the passenger compartment. The damping treatment is applied to the floor, toe-pan, cowl, and roof panel
Polyurethane Foam
Expandable polyurethane foam is injected into cavities at the base of the cowl plenum, liftgate opening, and center and rear door pillars
New Underbody Structure
The new underbody structure is designed for high bending and torsional stiffness, which helps isolate suspension vibration and chatter from passenger compartment
Hydro Engine Mount
A fluid-filled hydro engine mount significantly reduces engine vibration into the front rails to help isolate engine vibration
Hydro Bushings
Suspension control arms utilize tuned hydro bushings to further reduce suspension vibration
Tuned Super High Density (SHD) Second-Row Seating
Second-row foam seating technology is tuned to dampen vibration to the occupants
Tight-Tolerancing
Engineering and manufacturing's precision of the folding seats and covers ensure that seats remain free of squeaks and rattles
Wind Noise
Wind noise was reduced by incorporating triple door seals, molded gaskets, aerodynamically configured roof rack cross bows, and a spiraled antenna
Results
These initiatives make the 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans more than 16 percent quieter
2005 CHRYSLER AND DODGE MINIVANS "DESIGNED FROM THE INSIDE OUT"
Interior of 2005 Chrysler Town & Country
Elegant appearance achieved with all-new Sycamore wood designed into the center stack bezel and complemented with satin silver accents
Beautiful wood and satin silver appearance continues on the door bolsters and throughout entire cabin
Chromed Chrysler badging with jeweled Chrysler seal integrated into steering wheel horn pad
Touring model features satin silver appearance on the center stack bezel
Exterior of 2005 Chrysler Town & Country
Chrysler's prominent winged badge extends the entire width of grille, which now features four horizontal chromed bars
New, distinguished sculpted dual headlamps and a new front fascia that includes a carved, molded-in license plate pocket and precise circular fog lamps
Chromed fascia inserts complete new premium front-end appearance
Bright roof rack and new cladding with chromed inserts highlight the side view
New rear fascia includes chromed inserts with four integrated sensors for rear park assist
Interior of Dodge Caravan
New chromed Dodge badging integrated into steering wheel horn pad
SE features new mechanical grained appearance on the center stack bezel
SXT features new carbon-weave design on the center stack bezel
Exterior of Dodge Caravan
Distinct Dodge crosshair grille is instantly recognizable as Dodge
New front fascia with a molded-in license plate pocket and new fog lamps
New body-side moldings highlight side view
Since November of 1983, Chrysler Group has sold more than 10 million minivans and earned more than 150 awards for its impressive lineup of Chrysler and Dodge minivans.
Dodge Caravan, Grand Caravan, and Chrysler Town & Country are built in Windsor, Ontario; St. Louis, Missouri; and Graz, Austria.
Survey Says Stow 'n Go Seating Will Blow Away Competition
Stow 'n Go scores six times higher than Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna seating systems
Auburn Hills, Mich. - "Compared to the competition, our research shows that Stow 'n Go is clearly a superior seating solution in the minivan marketplace," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. "There's simply nothing else like it."
Chrysler Group conducted an extensive survey to gauge response to Stow 'n Go. Participants had the opportunity to compare Stow 'n Go against every competitor in the market.
Overall, Stow 'n Go scored six times higher than seating systems in Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. In the category of flexibility, Stow 'n Go scored eight times higher than Honda Odyssey and four and one-half times higher than Toyota Sienna. And in the category of purchase consideration, Stow 'n Go scored 50 percent higher than Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.
2005 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY: THE MOST LUXURIOUS MINIVAN
In addition to inventing the minivan in 1983, Chrysler invented the luxury minivan market segment in 1990 with the introduction of Chrysler Town & Country.
"With premium amenities and clever innovations including our minivan-first Stow 'n Go feature, the 2005 Chrysler Town & Country Limited is simply the most luxurious minivan in the marketplace," said Jeff Bell, Vice President, Chrysler/Jeep® Marketing. "No other competitor offers this must-have feature in this part of the minivan market segment. No other competitor offers this feature, period."
For 2005, Chrysler will offer four minivan models: one standard-wheelbase model and three extended-wheelbase models. Stow 'n Go will be standard on all extended-wheelbase models. The standard-wheelbase Town & Country is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine. Extended-wheelbase models will include the Chrysler Town & Country LX, Touring and Limited. LX will be powered by a 3.3-liter V-6 engine while Touring and Limited will feature the 3.8-liter V-6 engine.
Since 1995, Chrysler Town & Country minivan sales have increased 182 percent. Target demographics for Chrysler Town & Country minivan owners are 35-50-year-old married females with children above the age of 10. Average household income for Chrysler Town & Country minivan owners is $85,000.
2005 DODGE CARAVAN: THE WORLD'S BEST-SELLING MINIVAN
Twenty years and 10 million minivan sales ago, the first Dodge Caravan was driven off of the assembly line at the Chrysler Group's Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada. Ever since its introduction, Dodge Caravan continues to be the world's best-selling minivan.
"With more than 15 entries, the minivan market is extremely competitive," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge Marketing. "But year in and year out, minivan fans continue to vote with their hard-earned dollars for Dodge Caravan, the world's best-selling minivan. With our minivan-first Stow 'n Go seating system and a long list of new, innovative features, we will continue to lead the segment that we created."
For 2005, Dodge will offer four minivan models: two standard-wheelbase models and two extended-wheelbase models. Standard wheelbase minivans include Dodge Caravan SE and Caravan SXT, while extended-wheelbase minivans include Dodge Grand Caravan SE and Grand Caravan SXT. Stow 'n Go will be standard on Dodge Grand Caravan SXT and optional on Grand Caravan SE. The standard-wheelbase Dodge Caravan SXT is powered by the 3.3-liter V6 engine and Dodge Caravan SE is powered by a 2.4-liter, four cylinder engine. Dodge Grand Caravan SE is powered by the 3.3-liter V6 engine and the Dodge Grand Caravan SXT is powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 engine.
Dodge sells more than 300,000 Caravans annually and has a 20 percent market share in the segment - the highest of any nameplate. Target demographics for Dodge Caravan minivan owners are 25-39-year-old married females with two or more children below the age of six. Average household income for Dodge Caravan minivan owners is $60,000.
2005 Chrysler and Dodge Minivans Designed From The Inside Out
Auburn Hills, Mich. - For 20 years, Chrysler Group has continued to enhance, yet stay true to, its minivan design formula: a garageable van with chair-height seating, a low flat floor, easy entry and exit, pass-through access from first to second row, front-wheel drive, and flexible seating.
"At Chrysler Group, we continue to maintain our minivan leadership by designing our minivans from the inside out," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President of Design. "For our new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans, we've complemented our long list of new features with subtle but significant exterior enhancements. In short, we've made the best-looking and the best-selling minivans in the marketplace look even better, while staying true to our time-tested minivan formula."
2005 Chrysler Town & Country
The most luxurious minivan, the 2005 Chrysler Town & Country Limited extends Chrysler's prominent winged badge the entire width of the grille, which now features four horizontal chromed bars. The elegant front-end appearance integrates new distinguished, sculpted dual headlamps and a new fascia that includes a molded-in license plate pocket and circular fog lamps. Chromed fascia inserts complete the Limited's new premium front-end appearance.
A bright roof rack and new cladding with chromed inserts highlight the side view along with 16-inch chrome clad wheels with monochromatic Chrysler-badged center caps. A new rear fascia includes chromed inserts with four integrated sensors for the rear park assist.
Inside there is a new Sycamore wood appearance integrated into the center stack and complemented with a satin silver surround. The wood/satin silver appearance continues on the door bolsters and throughout the interior. Chrysler's chromed winged badge is now integrated into the steering wheel horn pad.
The new extended-wheelbase Chrysler Town & Country LX and Touring models feature Chrysler's prominent winged badge, which also extends the entire width of the grille and features a new gray grille texture. Completing the "new face of Chrysler" is a new front fascia with sculpted dual headlamps and a molded-in license plate pocket.
The side view includes a new color-keyed body-side molding and 15-inch wheel covers. New Chrysler Town & Country Touring badging appears on the liftgate.
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan and Caravan
The new 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT is instantly recognizable as a Dodge. Its distinctive, new U-shaped grille, complete with black grille bars, is a design cue shared with the new Dodge Magnum. The front fascia is new with a molded-in license plate pocket and new fog lamps. New body color bodyside moldings with chrome inserts highlight the side view along with 16-inch "Ingot" aluminum wheels. SXT badging appears on the liftgate.
Dodge Grand Caravan SE also features the new U-shaped grille appearance with black grille bars, an integrated molded-in license plate pocket, and a new mold-in color bodyside molding.
Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager Offer Global Appeal
Auburn Hills, Mich. - The global appeal of the new Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager will be further strengthened in 2004 with a host of significant new product enhancements and design refinements. Enhancements include the availability of a new 2.8-liter common rail turbo diesel (CRD) engine which has been mated to an automatic transmission for the first time on Voyager and Grand Voyager.
The new 2.8 CRD engine is the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine in its class. The engine delivers an impressive 110 Kw (150 bhp) of power at 3,800 rpm and best-in-class torque figures of 360 Nm (266 lb.-ft.) at a low 2,100 rpm. In terms of fuel economy, the new 2.8-liter engine will return figures of below 9 liters per 100 km, which matches or surpasses its lower displacement competitors.
Chrysler Group engineers paid particular attention to ensuring excellent "launchability," the rapid take off from standstill. The accelerator pedal also features a kickdown detent that allows the driver to actively control the downshift of the transmission and the vehicle's acceleration at higher speed.
"We are committed to providing our Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager customers with features that are tailored to meet their needs in markets outside North America," says Thomas Hausch, Executive Director of International Sales and Marketing for Chrysler Group. "This new diesel powertrain and transmission - along with premium amenities, clever innovations and increased safety features - will reinforce Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager's long-held position as the aspirational choice for minivan customers around the world."
New safety features for international customers include a significantly improved passive restraint system. Three-row, A-to-D pillar side curtain air bags now provide full-length coverage for all three rows of seats, while driver-side inflatable knee blocker and an improved seat belt alert further enhance driver and passenger safety. The Child Seat Anchor System (LATCH/ISOFIX) continues to be standard in the second seating row of all models.
The navigation system, which is currently an option in European markets, continues to be available on new Chrysler Voyagers.
For customers who prefer a manual transmission, a five-speed manual continues to be available, mated to DaimlerChrysler's 2.5-liter CRD. Also available are the 3.3-liter engine teamed with an automatic transmission, while the 2.4-liter engine will continue to be available.
For international markets in 2004, Chrysler will offer two versions of its standard-wheelbase Voyager minivan, the SE and LX. Three versions of the extended-wheelbase Chrysler Grand Voyager minivan will be available, the SE, LX and the Limited version, which can be also equipped with all-wheel drive. The new Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager will be introduced in markets outside North America in the second quarter of 2004. The overhead rail and park assist systems will also be introduced to minivans in markets outside North America in 2004. The Stow 'n Go seating will be introduced to minivans in markets outside North America at a later date.
Chrysler's minivans are now sold by authorized dealers in more than 90 countries.
Mopar® Offers Even More Features For New 2005 Chrysler and Dodge Minivans
Auburn Hills, Mich. - Throughout the minivan's storied 20-year history, Mopar has played a key role in offering additional thoughtful features on Chrysler Group minivans.
"Mopar is committed to providing additional parts and accessories that further enhance the minivan ownership experience," said Christine Cortez, Senior Vice President, Global Service and Parts, Chrysler Group. "For our new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans, Mopar has even more thoughtful, compelling minivan features that focus on safety, entertainment and convenience."
Mopar is offering 12 new accessories for new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans:
Rear Storage Bin and Lid
Hard plastic bin fills the third-row seating well to provide additional storage convenience. The bin, which matches the interior, is light-weight, removable, washable and includes two interior nets to divide compartments. The lid fits on top of the bin and is covered with interior-matching carpet
Rear Storage Bin and Table
Hard plastic bin fills the third-row seating well and provides additional storage convenience.. The bin matches the interior and is light-weight, removable, washable and includes two interior nets to divide compartments. The vinyl-covered table serves as the lid when the legs are folded, but when removed from the vehicle, integrated legs are extended to create a table
Rear Cargo Tray
Molded tray fits into the third-row seating well to provide added protection against spills and dirt. The tray, covered in durable carpet, is light-weight, and washable and easily removed. Also included are four Velcro-backed Cargo Loks to secure items in place
Second-Row Storage Bins
Hard plastic tubs fill the second-row seating well to provide additional storage convenience. Bins are black and molded with handles for easy installation and removal. Also included are two Velcro-backed Cargo Loks to secure items in place. Bins fit either the driver- or passenger-side of the vehicle
Large Cooler
Soft-sided cooler comes with carry handles, a shoulder strap and a net in the lid to hold ice packs, four of which come standard with the cooler. The interior-matched cooler is 15 inches wide, 24 inches long and 7.5 inches tall. The cooler features either a Chrysler winged badge or Dodge Ram's head logo and fits into third-row storage bin
Small Cooler
This soft-sided cooler comes with carry handles and a net in the lid to hold ice packs, two of which come standard with the cooler. The cooler is 11 inches wide, 18 inches long, and 7.5 inches tall. Cooler features either a Chrysler winged badge or Dodge Ram's head logo and fits into second- or third-row storage bins
Collapsible Tote
Sturdy fabric tote fits into second-row storage bin. Partition may be snapped into the tote in order to create four storage sections. Tote comes with handles for carrying or may be easily folded down for storage. Tote comes in black with either the Chrysler winged badge or Dodge Ram's head logo
Roadside Safety Kit
Well-stocked, soft-sided safety kit with carry handles. Contents include flashlight, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, reflective triangle, tools, water rations and more. It's five inches wide, 18 inches long and 7.5 inches tall, and fits into second-row storage bin. It comes in red with either the Chrysler winged badge or Dodge Ram's head logo.
Overhead Rail CD/DVD Holder
Black, zippered case holds 20 CDs or DVDs, and fits conveniently into the overhead rail compartments
Overhead Rail First Aid Kit
Black, zippered case contains basic first aid needs, including gauze pads, cleansing towelettes, insect sting relief pads, trauma dressing, adhesive strips, flexible bandages, butterfly bandages, scissors, adhesive tape and more
Park Distance Sensors
If not ordered as factory-installed, Park Distance Sensors are available through Mopar. The Park Distance Sensors help maneuvering in and around parked cars and tight spaces. Four ultrasonic sensors are integrated into the rear bumper, activating the interior light/sound indicator when vehicle is in reverse. An LED display is mounted on the interior D-pillar, which may be seen through the rearview mirror
Turn Signal Mirror
Mopar Turn Signal Mirrors use high intensity lights to change ordinary exterior rearview mirrors into safety features that command attention. When a turn signal is activated, a flashing chevron appears in the corresponding side mirror to alert nearby drivers. The mirrors replace the factory mirror glass and operate as regular rearview mirrors whether the turn signals are activated or not
Mopar is the exclusive original equipment supplier of parts, components and accessories for Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles sold throughout the world.
New 2005 Chrysler And Dodge Minivans Offer Even More Safety Features
Auburn Hills, Mich. - The new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans will come loaded with safety features.
"Minivans, as a category, are already one of the safest vehicles on the road," said Mike Donoughe, Vice President, Family Vehicle Product Team, Chrysler Group. "For 2005, we've added even more safety features to Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan. Our comprehensive safety features help our minivans perform where it matters most - on the road in real world driving conditions."
Following are safety and security features listed in alphabetical order for 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans:
Advanced Multistage Air Bag System
Provides enhanced protection for a greater range of occupants at various levels based on the severity of a crash
Anti-lock Braking System
Equipped with electronic sensors that prevent wheel lockup, system offers improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
BeltAlert
Chrysler Group's new enhanced seat belt reminder system. If a vehicle is driven without the driver being properly belted, the system will periodically activate a chime and illuminate a light in the instrument cluster in order to remind the driver to buckle up
Child Seat Anchor System
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children(LATCH) eases installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
Constant Force Retractors (CFR)
CFRs are engineered to force-limit the belt system and gradually release seat belt webbing in a controlled manner during a severe impact
Enhanced Accident Response System
In the event of an accident, this system makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach the occupants by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking the doors after air bag deployment
Energy-Absorbing Steering Column
The innovative stroking steering column utilizes "release capsules," which allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy absorption during a crash. The column also features "tuned" metal bend straps which deform during column stroke for optimal energy management
Front Crush Sensors
Two sensors, located forward in the vehicle, measure the severity of the impact and relay crash information to safety control systems in the occupant compartment for optimal deployment of the driver and passenger air bags, driver inflatable knee blocker, and seat belt pretensioners
Minivan-First Inflatable Knee Blocker
Knee blocker inflates in conjunction with air bag deployment. This feature increases leg protection in an impact and helps to position the driver relative to the air bag
Minivan-First Factory-Installed UConnect Hands-Free Communication
Integrated into the vehicle's electrical and audio system, wireless Bluetooth® technology links to the customer's cell phone. Control buttons are intuitive and conveniently located on the rearview mirror
Minivan-First Standard Door Alert
Signal lights activate when power sliding doors are in operation, signaling pedestrian activity.
Occupant Classification System (OCS)
The OCS measures conditions for activation or deactivation of the passenger-side air bag, based upon the weight of the occupant
Pretensioners
During a collision, the front seat belt pretensioners electronically sense a crash and immediately remove slack from the seat belts, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant's upper body
Steering Column Intermediate Shaft Decoupler
A joint integrated into the steering system releases during a severe impact event. Limits the amount of force applied to the chest during an impact
Three-row Supplemental Side Curtain Air Bags
Three-row, A to D pillar side curtain air bags provide full-length coverage for all three rows of seats. The side curtain extends protection to all outboard passengers. Both side curtain air bags have impact sensors which trigger the air bag on the side where impact occurs
Rear Park Assist
Rear obstacle detection system with audible warning and rear overhead display
Sound Of Quality: New 2005 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan Will Offer Most Refined Driving Experience
Chrysler Group invests $40 million in order to make quietest minivan even quieter
Interior is more than 16 percent quieter
Auburn Hills, Mich. - For 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans, Chrysler Group engineers further improved refinement levels in order to enhance the driving experience and communicate overall vehicle quality.
One important measure of refinement is in the area of noise, vibration and harshness.
"Reducing noise, vibration and harshness is critical to any new vehicle launch," said Mike Donoughe, Vice President, Family Vehicle Product Team. "But it's especially critical for the minivan, a special space where family communication and bonding takes place. For our 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans, we've essentially created a library-like atmosphere to ensure that conversation may occur anytime with anyone anywhere in the vehicle."
Noise level measurements taken on 2004 and 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans prove that new 2005 minivans are more than 16 percent quieter.
State-of-the-art technology is used to ensure quietness in all seating positions for 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans. By combining computer simulation techniques with vehicle testing in Chrysler Group's state-of-the-art Auburn Hills wind tunnel and on environmental four-post shakers, Chrysler Group engineers were able to create the quietest minivans in the marketplace. Following are initiatives that Chrysler Group engineers took to make today's minivan even quieter:
"Quiet steel" technology (visco-elastic treatment sandwiched between two steel layers), structural ribbing and spray-on dampener were integrated into the recessed floor design to reduce vibration, road noise and stone impingement
Robotically applied liquid spray dampener provides additional barriers to noise that would otherwise enter the passenger compartment through the roof or floor
Wind noise was reduced by incorporating triple door seals, molded gaskets, aerodynamically configured roof rack cross bows, and a spiraled antenna
Expandable polyurethane foam and baffles, UltraLight® acoustic material, and molded silencers were applied to the structural and interior systems that perform as barriers, absorbers, and dissipaters against road- and powertrain-generated noises
New minivans built for the international markets with the diesel engine feature silencers in the engine and passenger compartment. The engine compartment consists of a thick underhood silencer, a decorative cover over the engine includes a liner of acoustic material, an acoustic "belly pan" that virtually covers the entire engine compartment, plenum treatments, and fender silencers. The passenger compartment includes instrument panel silencers, an upgrade to the toe-pan dampers, and A-pillar silencers
"Without question, our engineers sweated the details to make the quietest minivan even quieter," said Donoughe. "We want our customers to enjoy the driving experience and the ability to easily communicate with one another, and they can do this in this special vehicle that we developed."
All data provided by DaimlerChrysler
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