SRT Absorbed into Dodge Brand; Viper Program Continues
Chrysler Group LLC announced Tuesday a consolidation of its brands, which will see SRT (Street and Racing Technology) absorbed under the Dodge nameplate.
As a result, the Detroit automaker’s signature performance car will return to being known as a Dodge Viper, effective immediately, while other former SRT vehicles will also fall under the Dodge umbrella.
Ralph Gilles, the President and CEO of the now-defunct SRT brand, continues with Chrysler as the Senior Vice President of Product Design and President and CEO of Motorsports.
“I want to thank Ralph for his dedication to the SRT brand," said Sergio Marchionne, Chairman and CEO, Chrysler Group LLC. “Under Ralph’s leadership, the SRT brand expanded its vehicle lineup to include more highly customized models and received numerous automotive awards and distinctions."
Despite the shakeup, no significant changes are expected for the factory Viper GTS-R program in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship. However, it’s unclear if the Riley Technologies-built car will immediately be rebadged as a Dodge or if the SRT Motorsports team name will be changed.
The GTLM class doesn’t return to action until the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen on June 28-29. Sportscar365