Chrysler Java Design Study Introduces 'Passenger Priority Design'
14 September 1999
Chrysler Java Design Study Introduces 'Passenger Priority Design' FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 14 -- DaimlerChrysler
today took the wraps off a design study, the Chrysler Java*, at the
Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung in Frankfurt, Germany.
Conveying American optimism, the Chrysler Java show car represents a fresh
design approach to an important European market segment. With its clean, yet
refined and elegant "one box" profile, Java's "Passenger Priority Design"
makes maximum use of its exterior dimensions. Java's interior package is
actually comparable to that of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, yet is 50 centimeters
(20 inches) shorter at only 3,77 meters (148 inches).
"Taking cues from DaimlerChrysler's signature MPV and sport-utility
vehicle design, this moves cab-forward design to the next level," said Tom
Gale, Executive Vice President Chrysler Product Development, Design and
Passenger Car Operations. "This show car features what we call 'Passenger
Priority Design' with tall architecture and Panoramic Seating for driver and
passengers, allowing higher H-points to give them more of an in-control
feeling compared to other small cars. In fact, the rear passengers are
sitting higher than the front passengers, creating an automotive form of
theater seating."
Java's unique Panoramic Seating with high H-points enhances visibility,
comfort, space and ease of entry and exit for both driver and passengers.
Additional interior space was achieved by moving the windshield forward and
keeping the car's front and rear overhang to a minimum. Java's interior is
practical and flexible yet decidedly upscale and comfortable. Said Gale:
"This being the first time we created a distinct Chrysler-branded design study
for Europe, we had to make sure that Java conveys a sense of solidity and
looks and feels like a Chrysler."
"Java signifies the Chrysler brand's commitment to the compact segment in
Europe. Although the vehicle is a pure design study with no production plans,
it does convey a strong corporate message that DaimlerChrysler is serious
about growing its market share in that segment. Java shows off design cues
that could make it into a future Chrysler car."
The design of the Chrysler Java is almost architectural, rather than
automotive. Its classic architectural proportions are complemented by dynamic
contemporary character lines. A single low egg crate grille conveys
Chrysler's sophisticated lineage and performance character. Its chiseled
compact body lends substance and visual weight, suggesting a low center of
gravity and stable stance with a long wheelbase (2,49 meters/98.3 inches) and
wide track (1,50 meters/59.1 inches front, 1,49 meters/58.7 inches rear).
Tall upright tail lamps provide a unique rear signature and maximum
visibility in congested European city traffic. Java's athletic exterior
design is rounded off by prominent, detailed head lamps, taut body side
surfacing and large, mechanically inspired 18-inch wheels. The show car
features a new light green silver metallic finish. "As small as it
is, Java looks substantial, grown-up and sophisticated," said Gale.
This visual language is carried on in the interior. Inspired by Swedish
furniture showrooms, Java's spacious interior sports a lighter palate in
colors and materials. Featured are brushed aluminum, chrome, cream and light
green leather and curly maple wood. Enhancing Java's performance character,
the gauge cluster has a unique three-dimensional execution.
"In giving Java's interior a tailored look and feel with great detailing,
we reinforced the upscale Chrysler lineage," said John Herlitz, Senior Vice
President Design. "Java shows that a compact car can have an attractive and
rich interior. Added to that, the Panoramic Seating and light colors give the
interior a bigger feel." Java has front bucket seats and a 60/40 split-fold
rear bench.
Kevin Verduyn, Senior Design Manager at DaimlerChrysler's Pacifica
Advanced Product Design Center in Carlsbad, California, was responsible for
the Java project. "Java is the logical follow-up to previous design studies
such as the Pronto and CCV. We were looking for the most efficient yet
stylish way to move four people around in a sub-four-meter car."
"The design was completed just before the DaimlerChrysler merger was
announced. In the fabrication phase, in which we actually start the
construction of the show car, we were able to include our merger partner and
achieve substantial synergies by using their knowledge and resources," Verduyn
added. "Since this is a design study, we had the freedom to use European-
based DaimlerChrysler components such as the powertrain, transaxle and
suspension on the Java. By working together on the components, the result was
a much faster completion of the show car."
Java is powered by a 60 kW (80 bhp)/130 Nm (95 lb.-ft.) 1.4-liter four-
cylinder engine coupled to a five-speed manual transaxle. The front
suspension incorporates wishbones, MacPherson struts, double-tube shock
absorbers and a torsion-bar stabilizer. Trailing links with coil springs with
single-tube shock absorbers and a torsion-bar stabilizer make up the rear
suspension. Java rolls on P185/50R18 tires on 18"x6" wheels.
Chrysler Java Design Study
Essential Specifications
Dimensions mm inch
Length 3768 147.8
Width 1723 67.8
Height 1574 62.0
Wheelbase 2488 98.3
Track, front 1500 59.1
Track, rear 1490 58.7
Powertrain
Engine 1.4-liter, I-4, 60 kW (80 bhp) @ 5,000 rpm,
130 Nm (95 lb.-ft.) @ 3,750 rpm
Transaxle Front-wheel drive, 5-speed manual
Suspension
Front Wishbone with MacPherson struts, double-tube shock
absorbers and torsion-bar stabilizer
Rear Trailing links with coil springs, single-tube shock
absorbers and torsion-bar stabilizer
Estimated performance
Top speed 170 kph (105 mph)
Acceleration 0-100 kph 12.9 sec
(0-62 mph)
* Java is a trademark or registered trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc.
in the U.S. and other countries. Sun Microsystems, Inc. did not participate
in the design or development of this DaimlerChrysler vehicle, nor does the
vehicle contain any software or hardware manufactured or sold by Sun
Microsystems.
