Featured Vehicle

Aug. 31 - Sept. 27, 2010, the Museum is featuring the Dodge Intrepid and Chrysler LHX concepts.  The duo are showcased on the second floor as part of the ongoing Unique Vehicle Pairs Spotlight series.

Home Page Image:  Dodge Intrepid Concept Vehicle

While concept cars normally “reach” for the limits of design, often times they are an indication of the design direction for future models. That was exactly the case with the Dodge Intrepid concept car. Many of Intrepid’s design cues were the inspiration for the Dodge Stealth. From headlamps to side scoops to tail lights, the Dodge Intrepid concept car is a look at the lineage of the Dodge Stealth.

A concept vehicle developed by Chrysler Corporation’s design studios, Intrepid’s aircraft-inspired canopy flows gracefully rearward into the engine compartment and rear deck. Within the aerodynamic shape are engine access panels, engine ventilation, dual NASA ducts and a functional trunk compartment. Exterior paint is a shaded radiance of candy red multicoat and orange red.

Intrepid’s interior is ergonomically designed with a style that is handsomely functional with full analog V.D.O. gauges, easy-to-understand displays and controls. All are finely tailored in deep blue glove leather and harlequin fabric.

Intrepid was first shown at the North American International Auto Show in January, 1987.

Chrysler LHX Concept Vehicle



The 1996 Chrysler LHX concept four-door luxury sedan made its debut at the North American International Auto Show on January 6, 1996. It combines heritage design with contemporary proportions and develops the thesis for the next generation of Chrysler full-size luxury cars. From its exciting proportions to its elegantly crafted interior, the LHX indicates Chrysler is continuing its bold and innovative design philosophy.

The Chrysler LHX concept car explored the future direction of cab-forward architecture. Its design pushed the wheels even further to the corners and stretched the cab to provide dramatic interior space. Its exterior profile gave the LHX a very aggressive look. However, the LHX’s designers were challenged to combine aggressive characteristics with the classic feel luxury buyers desired. So the car blends elegant forms of classic styles in the front and rear with far-reaching packaging and élan that could live well into the next century.

The car’s dramatically raked profile inspires the use of a centrally located instrument cluster set well forward in the vehicle, keeping the driver’s eyes focused ahead. In addition, essential warning lights and speed are displayed within a pod directly in front of the driver where primary switch functions are positioned within a finger tip’s reach. Side-view mirrors are replaced by a closed circuit TV system within the windshield pillars of the vehicle. The extended 124-inch wheelbase permits the investigation of alternative uses of a cross-car bulkhead. These include rear passenger supplement restraints in the front seatbacks coupled with knee bolsters and air vents in the bulkhead. A rear occupant entertainment center and storage compartment is also part of the packaging.

Following Roots of the LH Revolution, the Unique Vehicle Pairs Spotlight series will continue with:

Eco Muscle – Sept. 28 – Nov. 21
2000 Dodge Maxx Cab and 2001 Dodge Power Box concepts