What Ever Happened to Chrysler's TURBINE CAR? (Part 8)

(From Allpar.com)
Consumer Evaluation Begins

On March 7, 1962, George J. Huebner, Jr., Executive Engineer of Research for Chrysler Corporation, received an award from the Power Division of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers "for his leadership in the development of the first automotive gas turbine suitable for mass -produced passenger automobiles." It was the first such award ever given to an automotive engineer.

Chrysler Corporation then built 50 turbine-powered cars and placed them in the hands of typical drivers for evaluation in everyday use.

This program was an outstanding point in the history of turbine vehicles for two key reasons. First, this was the first time any company had committed itself to build a significant number of gas turbine vehicles. (In the past, gas turbine installations generally were limited to one or two test vehicles.) Second, for the first time, turbine-powered automobiles would be driven and evaluated by private individuals outside the corporation. (Previously, only research specialists and a few automotive writers had been permitted to drive the turbine-powered cars.)

Since the sole purpose was to determine the reaction of typical American drivers to turbine-powered vehicles, the engine was placed in a family-type car designed for everyday use which forms a familiar evaluation background for the driver. The styling theme is designed to provide an exciting setting for the vehicle itself. The over-all impression is a fresh styling appeal with strong emphasis on a contemporary and luxurious appearance. Ornamentation is based on the bladed turbine motif which is characteristic of the engine. The interior features a full-length center console and extensive use of leather.

The Turbine is offered as one body style - a four-passenger, 2-door hardtop. The exterior and interior are turbine bronze. Power steering, power brakes, power window lifts, automatic transmission, and all other available equipment are standard.

The turbine power plant for the car is an entirely new design, more advanced in concept than the previous Chrysler turbines. It is Chrysler Corporation's fourth generation turbine power plant design. It has a new configuration with two regenerators rotating in vertical planes (one on each side) and a centrally located burner. Compared to the previous model CR2A, the new engine is more lively, lighter, more compact, and quieter. Acceleration lag is reduced to slightly over one second. And, of particular interest, the new engine design is more adaptable to production techniques.