Chrysler Group just snatched up a 531-acre testing facility east of Naples, Fla., where they plan to expand vehicle testing.
Automotive News is reporting Chrysler’s hopes are to continue testing during the winter months. The site has more than six miles of track, which includes a 2.1-mile straightaway, and a 1.1-mile ride and handling loop. Chrysler spokesman Mike Palese says the track surfaces and warm location were reasons why Chrysler wanted the test track.
Chrysler also owns test tracks in Chelsea, Mich., and Yucca, Ariz. and the new Naples track will, as Palese says, provide “optimum weather for winter season testing.”
The track was purchased from famed motorcycle builder Harley-Davidson for an estimated $17 million. The bike builder has owned the test track since 2002 when they purchased it from the Ford Motor Company. Harley-Davidson won’t be gone for good though, as they will continue using the facility on a leased basis
Source: Automotive News
