For as long as the auto industry has existed, automakers have rolled out new technologies and features on a regular calendar, introducing options only with brand new models or during a mid-cycle design refresh.  According to the Detroit News, Chrysler now plans to throw out the schedule.  "Starting this year, Chrysler will introduce new technology on various 2009 models instead of waiting for the traditional mid-cycle refresh. If the company has something new it can put in a vehicle, it will."  Frank Klegon, executive vice president of vehicle development, explains the strategy: "Everything moves so fast today.  We have to have continuous improvement, and if we have something new to add to a vehicle and we can, we'll just do it, instead of waiting to bundle a bunch of things at once."  CEO Robert Nardelli says the company has "identified 400 to 500 line items on our current vehicles that will be improved" and rolled out to showrooms quickly, rather than waiting for a redesign of each vehicle.

Autoblog says the tactic "is unique among car manufacturers."  Already planned improvements include "a new mileage-saving all-wheel-drive system for their 2009 300C and Dodge Charger as well as swiveling rear entertainment systems, blind-spot monitoring and backup sensors for their '09 minivans." 

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