Fiat Abarth
February 12 – 22, 2015
In terms of indoor tracks, the Chicago Auto Show Camp Jeep and City Drive are the Superbowl of consumer test drive events. It is safe to say that this event has no peers when it comes to throughput , and the 2015 edition did not disappoint. Both tracks consistently maintained a 45-90 minute line from open until close each day of the show, proving that FCA is producing excellent product that people want to experience.
Camp Jeep –
This is our favorite indoor course every year. By using organic materials in conjunction with GPJ-designed modular steel obstacles, we create the atmosphere and feel of an outdoor setting, complete with live pine trees, dirt, mulch, logs and boulders. This course really gives consumers a chance to share a true off-road driving experience with us as they learn about the vehicle and it’s capabilities from our pro drivers. As an added bonus, we were thrilled to debut the 2015 Renegade Trailhawk, giving the public first crack at riding in this exciting new B-segment SUV from Jeep. As predicted, the vehicle was met with enthusiasm as it handled the course with aplomb. Both competitive vehicle owners and Jeep fanatics walked away from our course with smiles on their faces. Represented at Camp Jeep was the full Jeep lineup, including Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Wrangler, Renegade, Patriot and Compass.
Here is a quick video produced by FCA’s social media team:
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10154636548441515
City Drive – In 2015, the SRT brand returned to the City Drive to the delight of the Chicago guests. The SRT Charger (and Challenger with Scat Pack), could be heard from anywhere in the McCormick Place when it hammered down the acceleration lane. Also represented on the City Drive track were the 2015 Doge Dart, Chrysler 300, 200, T&C, as well as the Fiat Abarth, 500L, and 500.
And here is a video of the City Drive (City Drive content starts at 4:19)
January 31 – February 10, 2013
Gordinier Group drivers traveled to the Nation’s Capital to represent the Fiat USA brand at the 2013 Washington Auto Show.
2103 Fiat 500 Abarth
Equipped with the latest offerings from Fiat (500, 500c, 500 Turbo, and the crowd-favorite Abarth), our mission was simple: to show guests a good time, give them an exhilarating ride, and educate them on this great little vehicle.
Most consumers that are new to the Fiat brand comment about how agile, quick and downright fun these iconic Italian vehicles are.
There was no shortage of people lining up for a chance to take a ride in a 500, especially the performance-oriented Abarth. Many were drawn to our booth by it’s throaty exhaust note.
The track was interesting, as it showcased the attributes that make this vehicle a segment leader. With a tight roundabout, parallel parking zone, acceleration zone, pothole simulator and several other compact agility exercises, it was easy for guests to see the advantages of driving this excellent city-friendly vehicle.
With the 500e (electric) and 500l (4-dr) on display upstairs, guests were treated to a glimpse into the bright future of the Fiat USA brand.
Abarth in action
February 8-19, 2012
Camp Jeep Chicago
The Chicago Auto Show covers more than 1 million square feet of McCormick Place and is open to the public for 10 days, making it the largest automotive exposition on the continent. This year’s show saw a surge in attendance, generating the most successful finish in 4 years.
Chrysler Group attracted the masses with three indoor test tracks this year. Gordinier Group’s staff consisting of trained, professional drivers and product specialists showcased the brands’ capabilities and new product features while simultaneously transporting guests through a number of demanding obstacles. Below is a photo of Jim Morrison, Director of Jeep Brand Product Marketing, addressing the Gordinier crew before the big show.
Mr. Morrison speaks
Camp Jeep made its its eighth consecutive appearance at the Chicago Auto Show, displaying ground clearance, stability, maneuverability, suspension, articulation and traction in the latest Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited, Grand Cherokee Overland, Liberty Renegade, Patriot and Compass Jeep brand models. Guests were taken to exhilarating heights of over 18′ and thrilling grades of up to 35 degrees.
Camp Jeep Chicago
Camp Jeep Chicago
Camp Jeep Chicago
The RAM Track Experience entailed a virtual construction site, with real life obstructions demonstrating traction, body and frame strength, handling and suspension, ride quality, ground clearance, stability and payload in various models of the RAM 1500.
Ram Test Track
Ram Test Track
Ram Test Track
The Multi-Brand Track Experience offered more scenic surroundings, exhibiting vehicles such as the Chrysler 200 and 300, the Dodge Charger and Challenger and the Fiat 500 Cabrio and Sport models. Handling, ambient noise, ride comfort, slalom, acceleration and braking challenges attested to the vehicles quality and stamina.
Chrysler Multi-Brand Track
Chrysler Multi-Brand Track
Chrysler Multi-Brand Track
Jeep took home the prize with “Best Exhibit.” “Best of Show voting has become a benchmark measure, and winning in any category is quite meaningful for our manufacturers and exhibitors,” said Steve Foley Jr., chairman of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. “In a year where attendance increased yet again and we boasted four indoor test tracks and five outdoor test drives, consumers had a better chance than ever to weigh the competitors and let their voice be heard.”
There is no doubt Chrysler Group let their voice be heard at this years Chicago Auto Show. Below are a list of links covering the indoor track experiences, but before you take a look, don’t miss this stunning video montage of Camp Jeep, the RAM Track Experience and the Multi-Brand Track Experience.
Take a look at photos and video from Chrysler Group’s blog coverage HERE.
Road and Track’s blog reported on Chrysler’s Test Tracks HERE.
Jim Choate, with Allpar.com, covered each of the Jeep, RAM and Multi-Brand courses in their Chicago Autoshow highlights.