DaimlerChrysler Launches HEMI.com The Official Web Site for HEMI(R) Enthusiasts

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., July 12 -- For more than 50 years the HEMI(R) engine has stood for unparalleled automotive power and performance. In response to the overwhelming interest and popularity of the HEMI engine, DaimlerChrysler has launched the official HEMI.com web site dedicated to HEMI owners and enthusiasts worldwide (http://www.hemi.com/ ). HEMI.com is an interactive web site that presents an historical timeline of the evolution of the HEMI engine, beginning with HEMI's inception back in the early 1950's. The development of the legendary 426 HEMI that revolutionized NASCAR and NHRA racing (and was ultimately banned by NASCAR) is featured, along with the new generation 5.7L HEMI. In addition, web surfers will find vintage photographs and biographical information featuring the people who were behind the most famous automotive powerplant in the world.

"HEMI.com was created because of the HEMI loyalists around the globe," said Ron McDaniel, Chrysler Group Director of Advanced Service and Technical Information. "Interest in collectible muscle cars of the 60's and 70's is at an all-time high. We wanted to have a place where HEMI enthusiasts could get the official story of the HEMI, and a new generation of HEMI enthusiasts can find everything they want to know about the HEMI and have fun doing it."

The racing destination within the site includes photos and biographical information featuring the drivers from the world of racing who made the HEMI synonymous with winning. The list includes racing legends Richard Petty, Buddy Baker, Don Garlits, Dick Landy and Sox & Martin and reads like the roster from racing's hall of fame.

For the history buff, the site contains vintage ads from the 1950's and 60's, when Detroit muscle was king. For the more technically minded, HEMI.com contains specifications for the historic HEMI engines and provides graphic details of how these engines managed to produce such incredible power. Visitors to the site can also visit our multimedia section where they can download their favorite HEMI ads and wallpaper images.

"DaimlerChrysler is fortunate to have such passionate and loyal followers who know and love our HEMI engines," said McDaniel. "We expect the web site to be a popular gathering place among HEMI enthusiasts, old and new."