Chrysler California Cruiser hints at future

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif., Aug 19 Reuters reported that a two-door version of the popular-selling PT Cruiser could be in the works, and future models of the rounded vehicles may be edgier, with distinct horizontal lines on the side and rear.

DaimlerChrysler AG gave a sneak peek this weekend of the Chrysler California Cruiser concept coupe, to be unveiled at the Paris auto show in late September, which officials said gives a glimpse of the possible future styling of the PT Cruiser.

The two-tone California Cruiser draws some styling elements from the Chrysler Crossfire sports car, which goes on sale next year.

"Could this be the face of things to come for the next generation of PTs yet to go into production?," Jim Schroer, executive vice president of Chrysler sales and marketing, teased attendees at a Chrysler party held here Saturday night in conjunction with the annual Pebble Beach historic car races and show. "Well, as we like to say around our place, you just never know."

Schroer admitted to reporters later that doing a two-door version of the PT Cruiser could be another inexpensive derivative of the PT Cruiser, whose 1930s-inspired styling has made it a top-seller. Chrysler will launch this fall the Chrysler PT Turbo, which has a 215-horsepower engine, and a two-door PT Convertible will go on sale in early 2004.

"We have not lost our ability to turn concept vehicles into production," Schroer said.

Schroer said that cars such as the PT Cruiser that draw from classic car designs especially appeal to young buyers. But the cars must not copy the past, he said. "If you try to recreate the past, you can never beat it. You can't reincarnate Elvis," he said.

Earlier this month, Chrysler Group President Dieter Zetsche said that two-thirds of the 21 new and refreshed models that the company will launch over the next three years will be passenger cars. Currently, Chrysler draws nearly 70 percent of its sales from light trucks -- including sport utility vehicles, minivans and pickup trucks.