Chrysler is close to deciding whether to build a car based on the Imperial concept shown at the Detroit Show in January, according to group product development chief, Frank Klegon.
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He said a decision could come late this year or early next year in an interview with Automotive News.
A Global Insight analyst was quoted as saying that the car is code-named CY41 and is expected to go into production in 2009.
The Imperial concept is a luxury limousine and was inspired by classic Imperials of the 1930s and 1960s. This concept car has a 123-inch wheelbase and is 17 inches longer and six inches higher than the Chrysler 300C. The four occupants sit nearly seven inches higher off the ground in sumptuous individual seats surrounded by rich wood, leather, suede and satin-finished aluminium.
The absence of a B-pillar means that the doors are hinged at the A and C pillars and open like French windows, permitting a great view of the entire interior. A 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine provides a top speed of 160mph and a 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds.
