The app is free and will be available first on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The app will phase into select Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles by year end.
Chrysler is joining the smartphone craze with an app to help customers learn more about their vehicles and connect with other owners.
The new owner information app, an industry first, will be introduced with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, then rolled out for the rest of Chrysler’s lineup soon after. Initially, it will be available only for iPhone, but Droid and Blackberry versions will soon follow. It will play on the iPad, but images are not optimized for that platform.
Mopar President and CEO Pietro Golier made the announcement Thursday morning to reporters on a live chat feed.
Customers can view owner’s manuals, product literature, feature descriptions, instrument panel information, maintenance and service contracts and frequently asked questions. They can browse and buy Mopar parts and accessories. Potential customers will be able to use the app to learn about Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep and Fiat vehicles.
“Creating this channel of communication will enhance the customer experience,” Golier said. “We view this app as an opportunity to communicate with potential customers about our brands and our vehicles.”
Initially, the app will only include vehicle-specific information about current and future products, but past products could be added later, Golier said in response to a question from The Detroit Bureau.
“Currently our focus is on the new vehicles. However, we will consider this,” Golier said.
Golier offered a few teasers about where the company may take this technology in the future.
“We have more in the pipeline,” he said.
Asked whether Chrysler might offer remote diagnostic service, Golier said “This app lays the foundation to enhance connections to the vehicle.”
In response to a question about making service appointments through the app and synchronizing them with the user’s calendar, Golier responded “Stay tuned.”
The free app goes live on Saturday to support the launch of the new Grand Cherokee. Get it at the iTunes store.
In 2009, Chrysler became the first automaker to announce it would stop putting paper owners manuals in all vehicles, although they are still available on request. Owners get a DVD and the manuals are available online.
The app will also help customers connect with online communities of enthusiasts of Chrysler’s brands, Golier said.
Bryan Laviolette is the editor of http://amphibiouswllz.com