Chrysler
American automotive brand and division owned by Stellantis, known for its vehicles and industry innovations.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | N/A | - | |
* | $37.0b Valuation: $37.0b | Acquisition | |
* | $7.4b Valuation: $9.3b | Buyout | |
$4.4b | Merger | ||
| Total Funding | - | ||
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Chrysler is a storied American automotive brand, established in 1925 by Walter Chrysler from the remnants of the Maxwell Motor Company. Initially, Chrysler distinguished itself with advanced engineering—its first cars featured innovations like high-compression engines, four-wheel hydraulic brakes, and replaceable oil filters, setting new standards for mid-priced vehicles. Over the decades, Chrysler expanded through strategic acquisitions, including the Dodge Brothers Company, Fargo Trucks, and later, American Motors Corporation, which brought the iconic Jeep brand into its portfolio.
Throughout the 20th century, Chrysler was recognized as one of the "Big Three" U.S. automakers, known for its luxury vehicles, engineering breakthroughs, and bold designs. Notable innovations included the first practical mass-produced four-wheel hydraulic brakes, the development of aerodynamic designs, and the invention of the minivan category. The company also introduced features such as the Slant-6 engine, anti-lock braking systems, and key-start ignition switches.
Chrysler faced significant challenges in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, including financial crises, shifting market demands, and a series of mergers and ownership changes. It merged with Daimler-Benz in 1998, was later sold to Cerberus Capital Management, and eventually became part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). In 2021, FCA merged with PSA Group to form Stellantis, making Chrysler a division of this global automotive conglomerate.
In recent years, Chrysler's lineup has narrowed, with the Pacifica minivan as its flagship model. However, Stellantis has announced plans to revitalize the brand, focusing on electrification and digital connectivity. The Chrysler Airflow concept, an electric crossover SUV, signals the brand’s future direction, with a goal to become fully electric by 2028. Chrysler continues to leverage its legacy of innovation as it transitions into the era of connected, electric mobility.
Keywords: Chrysler, automotive, innovation, luxury vehicles, minivan, electrification, Stellantis, Airflow, Jeep, engineering, mergers, U.S. automaker, digital connectivity, automotive history, brand revival