TRAVERSE CITY, MICH.—The car with the all-plastic body might be a step closer to reality.
In January, Chrysler Corp. unveiled a new concept car called the Plymouth Pronto that featured body side panels made from thermoplastics with molded-in color. The rough-textured vehicle was only a design idea that might never go into production, Chrysler officials said at the time.
But other concept cars, such as the Dodge Viper and Plymouth Prowler, have gotten past the drawing board and onto the road.
In an Aug. 6 speech at the University of Michigan Management Briefing Seminars in Traverse City, Thomas Gale hinted that a version of the Pronto could be produced. Gale, Chrysler executive vice president for product development, said concept cars are rolling test beds for ideas that tie into what the firm considers for the marketplace, including product segmentation.
``One example of the latter ... was this year's Plymouth Pronto concept car,'' he said. ``The Pronto is an example of what could be a further shading of segments between cars and trucks.''
Gale would not comment on the car's chances for mass production. But, he said: ``It has tested well with consumers. We like what we've seen so far, not just in the materials but in its other design areas.''