Big Mag Wheel

Here is what I do not get; The Ford GT500 had a convertible the first year and so does the Camaro in 2009, so why are they not offering one with the Challanger right off the bat? I would think that at least 20% of the cars would be ordered in convertible. Not sure why they would not have one right out of the gate. The only thing I can think of is that becuase they are fast tracking the making of the car that they have not had time to develope one for the 08 production year. Thoughts? Any ideas as to when the announcement might come out?

mopar440

Well, the first production MY08 will be only be hardtop, basically cause it will be a short production. They have already done a convertible concept of the Challenger. I don't think it will be released until the 09MY. It might also come in late like April09. I guess we will just have to wait and see what happens.

moparman390

Because they are rushing the car to market in midyear '08. Wait for the broad range of options (like a convertible) to come in the full production year of '09.

Blu Angel

Big Mag Wheel

it's been already noted that the Brampton plant could produce up to 50,000 Challengers during its 2008 model run. That represents approximately 17% of the 2006 LX model run (300's, Chargers, and Magnums).

Output at the plant dipped less than 1 per cent last year. The company estimates production of about 50,000 annually for the Challenger starting in April 2008, according to an internal document.

for the full article please refer to the following link:
www.dodgechallenger.com/forums/m_10088/tm.htm

I believe DCX will guage the public interest and produce the 50,000 Challengers its first year. DCX ultimately, and ideally, wants the Brampton plant to run at full speed. It's three shifts could produce 300,000 cars next year. This should take up the shortfall from declining LX vehicles.

In conclusion, I believe that DCX does not really need the Challenger convertible numbers to be included in the 2008 MY since the plant could, and possibly should, be running at full speed.

Secondly, by adding the Challenger convertible during its 2nd MY (2009), DCX will keep interest in the Challenger strong and gain much more media attention.

All those Challenger buyers that did not buy the 2008 MY, will again be reminded about the 2009 Convertible. This will garner great media attention, drive customers to Chrysler showrooms, and drive Challenger sales...both coupes and convertibles.