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DaimlerChrysler to Sell Chrysler 300M and PT Cruiser Models in Japan

19 October 1999

DaimlerChrysler to Sell Chrysler 300M and PT Cruiser Models in Japan

    TOKYO, Oct. 19 -- DaimlerChrysler will begin
selling its popular Chrysler 300M sedan in Japan by mid-2000, followed by the
Chrysler PT Cruiser by year-end.
    The Chrysler PT Cruiser is an intriguing mix of classic and contemporary
cues with innovative interior packaging that allows for limitless combinations
of people and cargo.  It is the first vehicle to feature Chrysler's "Passenger
Priority" design.
    "The PT Cruiser is really a breakthrough vehicle, a real segment buster,"
said James P. Holden, President, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, speaking at the
Tokyo Motor Show.  "There simply is nothing else like it anywhere on Earth.
Its size, its unique design and its versatility will make Japanese consumers
take notice.  For that reason, we are introducing it in Japan virtually at the
same time as the U.S. and other international introductions.  Moreover, we are
pleased to offer PT Cruiser to Japanese consumers in right-hand-drive form."
    The PT Cruiser will arrive in Chrysler showrooms in late 2000.  Holden
also announced that the new Chrysler 300M will also be sold in Japan next
year.
    The Chrysler 300M continues the tradition of Chrysler's "letter series"
cars, begun when the C-300 sedan was introduced in 1955.  The series evolved
for ten years through 1965 with the introduction of the 300L.  For a decade,
the 300 series represented innovative cars that provided exhilarating
performance to owners who valued speed, size and style.  After a more than 30-
year hiatus, Chrysler has continued the series with the all-new 300M.
    "With the 300M, we are bringing to Japan a piece of the letter series
heritage," said Holden.  "Today, car enthusiasts around the world view the
original Chrysler letter-series cars as some of the most collectible,
representing an era of uniquely American performance cars.  The new Chrysler
300M is a worthy successor to the series."
    The Chrysler 300M will be available to Japanese consumers in mid-year 2000
and be offered in a left-hand-drive configuration.
    "While we are still very much a niche player in Japan," continued Holden,
"we stand by our commitment to offer unique, high quality and expressively
designed vehicles to Japanese consumers."