Chrysler to announce decision on Imperial production soon

Chrysler is nearing a decision on whether to sell a production version of the Imperial Concept first previewed at the Detroit auto show ten months ago. "The development teams have gotten us all the information we need to make a decision," Frank Klegon, product development chief, told Automotive News.

Mr. Klegon said a decision will come as early as the end of 2006, or as late as the first quarter of 2007. Chrysler announced plans to produce the Dodge Challenger Concept in early July. Analysts and car enthusiasts widely supported production of the Challenger, but have been mixed on the Imperial. Some observers wonder if the Imperial would be too large and expensive for the Chrysler brand. Others feel it could follow the success of the Chrysler 300. Klegon didn't say which way Chrysler was leaning on the issue. Stay tuned.