First Production 2013 SRT Viper GTS Auctioned for $300,000 at Barrett-Jackson Auction -- Proceeds go to Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer will receive $300,000 from auction proceeds of the first production-model 2013 SRT Viper GTS, following the Barrett-Jackson Orange County (Calif.) event this past weekend.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/DE30004 )

To support children and families dealing with the challenges of pediatric cancer, Chrysler Group's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand teamed with The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer and the American Le Mans Series, by auctioning the world-class supercar.

The flagship performance machine of SRT returns with more power and performance from its all-aluminum, mid-engine 8.4-liter V-10 that delivers an estimated 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque, to go along with superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts. Production of the 2013 SRT Viper begins later this year at the historic home of the Viper – Detroit's Conner Avenue Assembly Plant.

"What an exciting and momentous occasion for the Austin Hatcher Foundation and the SRT brand," said Beth Paretta, Director of Marketing and Operations – SRT Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. "We've enjoyed a lot of attention since showing the all-new SRT Viper to the world just three months ago in New York; and now being able to use some of that interest in our flagship supercar to generate support for this deserving charity is simply outstanding."

Joining Paretta on the auction stage were Mark Trostle, Head of Design – SRT Brand, Chrysler Group LLC; Dr. Jim Osborn, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Austin Hatcher Foundation; and Scott Atherton, President and CEO, American Le Mans Series. The auction was broadcast live on SPEED.

"We're extremely grateful to team with SRT and Barrett-Jackson on this auction effort," said Osborn. "The monies raised here will allow us to continue developing and funding services that empower families to live happy, meaningful and successful lives as pediatric cancer survivors."

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer's mission is to erase the effects of pediatric cancer and optimize each child's quality of life through essential specialized intervention beginning at the time of diagnosis and continuing throughout survivorship. The Foundation provides services to children with cancer, as well as their families, in association with Pediatric Oncology centers and through the Foundation's cancer care center, Hatch's House of Hope. The Foundation provides all services at no cost to the families. Services are funded solely by the generous donations of supporters. For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.

About SRT

The Chrysler Group's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand uses a successful product development formula featuring five proven hallmarks: awe-inspiring powertrains; outstanding ride, handling and capability; benchmark braking; aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors to remain true to its performance roots.

The expansion of the SRT vehicle lineup in the 2012 model year features four new products that are world-class performance contenders and bring the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. These products include the Chrysler 300 SRT8®, Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, Dodge Charger SRT8 and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Making its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market in late 2012 is the new 2013 SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS. The SRT flagship performance machines arrive with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces "The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions™" in Scottsdale, Ariz., Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, Nev. and Orange County, Calif. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings.

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YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslergroupllc.com
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Streetfire: http://members.streetfire.net/profile/ChryslerVideo.htm
Corporate website: http://www.chryslergroupllc.com

SOURCE Chrysler Group LLC