Chrysler PT Cruiser Concepts

Welcomed with open arms -- and checkbooks -- by budget-humbled trendsetters and retro-fevered enthusiasts, Chrysler PT Cruisers initially sold faster than the Toluca, Mexico, factory could build them. As the PT spread into Europe with its own local production facility, supply caught up with demand, as the fickle market began to seek the next big thing. Seeing sales have begun to dip, much like the Volkswagen New Beetle after the novelty was gone, Chrysler has begun an aggressive program to breathe new life into the PT Cruiser.

Not able to leave well enough alone, Chrysler designers are working out ways to lengthen the lifespan of its nouveau retro offering, considering such alterations as convertible, coupe/panel van, all-wheel drive, and pickup configurations, and possibly stretchy wagon variations. The goal is to extend the vehicle's life cycle to six years by offering a wider selection of models to keep interest hot during that time. As was foretold by the numerous custom variations at last year's SEMA show, the PT Cruiser will most certainly be treated to several personalized treatments building on its street rod appeal. And while the computer enhanced images shown here are merely fanciful "what if" possibilities, we have heard whispers from Chrysler that both the panel cruiser and convertible models are being considered to expand the production range.