Chrysler group chief operating officer Wolfgang Bernhard this week drove the first production Crossfire off the assembly line in Germany.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

The Crossfire is being built in Osnabrueck in conjunction with Karmann, a long-time DaimlerChrysler partner with more than 100 years of manufacturing experience. Founded in 1901, Karmann is now a leading full-service suppliers to the automotive industry.


The Crossfire was developed after a concept version of the car was shown at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version was unveiled a year later at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show and this week’s left hand drive Job One is said by Chrysler to be one the fastest concept-to-production programmes in the motor industry.


Chrysler says that preserving key aspects of the concept vehicle, while identifying Mercedes-Benz components to be used in production, were key to putting the vehicle into production quickly.


The Styling, wheelbase and centre exhaust system were maintained from the original Crossfire concept and powertrain and axle components were shared with Mercedes-Benz models already in or set for production.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The Crossfire, which will go on sale in the US mid-year as a 2004 model, is a low-slung, two seat sports coupe powered by a Mercedes 3.2-litre 90-degree V6, 18-valve SOHC engine combined with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.


Right-hand drive production will soon begin at Karmann and a Chrysler UK spokeswoman told just-auto the company was planning on an autumn launch.


“The Crossfire represents the future of the Chrysler brand, with proven quality and technology packaged in a stunning wrapper,” Bernhard said at the line-off ceremony.


Chrysler has capacity to build approximately 20,000 units, of which 15% will be earmarked for markets outside North America. The company expects to produce just 11,000 units this year.