Chrysler Marks Centennial
What’s now a Stellantis brand highlights its innovations over the decades.
The Chrysler Halcyon concept car is one of three company vehicles on display at the New York auto show to illustrate the automaker's past, present and future.
Stellantis North America
Chrysler, now known as Stellantis North America and one of the “big three” Detroit-area automakers, is kicking off its centennial celebration.
The company is showcasing its big anniversary at the New York International Auto Show, which starts this weekend. The three-vehicle display highlights several aspects of its history and future.
As it highlights 100 years of car-making, the company is emphasizing its innovations over the decades, including, perhaps most famously, the minivan, which it first produced in 1983. The list of creations also includes “Stow ‘n Go” seating for minivans’ second- and third-rows, and the Hemi V-8 engine.
“Chrysler holds a significant place in automotive history and culture and has been a symbol of innovation and resilience for 100 years,” said CEO Chris Feuell in a press release on centennial celebration plans.
The company’s New York auto show display will feature a 1924 Chrysler Six to showcase its “iconic” past, a 2025 Pacifica plug-in hybrid minivan to illustrate its trailblazing in that segment, and a Halcyon concept to point to its vision of “an all-electric future.”
The Six is the same vehicle Chrysler displayed at the 1925 National Automobile Show in New York that year.
“As one of the original Big Three, Chrysler contributed to industrial growth and influenced culture with iconic vehicles like the Chrysler 300. Chrysler is more than just a car brand, it’s a key part of the automotive industry.”
The automaker started out as Maxwell Motors before becoming Chrysler Corp. in June 1925, headed by Walter Chrysler.
The company will introduce a line of branded centennial merchandise, social media campaign including a video series, and hold other events throughout its anniversary year.
“Reaching 100 years is an accomplishment we want to both celebrate and use as an opportunity to declare our commitment to a future that honors Walter P. Chrysler’s legacy of innovation, engineering excellence and beautiful, affordable designs,” said Feuell, who teased a “bright” future in a “refreshed Chrysler Pacifica in 2026, a new crossover soon after and a third product inspired by the Halcyon concept.”
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