20 August 2002: It's not likely to make Irish tarmac anytime soon, but a smoother version of the Chrysler PT Cruiser idea was unveiled at the weekend under the name California Cruiser. It also suggests that a 2-door version is on the cards.

The two-tone car draws some styling elements from the Chrysler Crossfire sports car, which goes on sale in the US and in Europe next year.

An all-around versatile vehicle with two large doors, an innovative rear hatch and multi-functional interior, the Chrysler California Cruiser concept has ample space for four people and their travel needs, yet can be transformed into 'a hotel room for two'. Chrysler's words.

The exterior of the California Cruiser concept stays true to the original design of PT Cruiser, while conveying a possible evolution in its styling theme. The concept will make its public debut at the 2002 Paris Motor Show.

Meanwhile, a Dream Cruiser Series 2 will go on sale next year, jazzing up a special edition produced in the 30s-style model this year.

In addition to unique exterior paint, the PT Dream Cruiser Series 2 will feature chrome bodyside moldings, a body-color rear spoiler, and 17-inch chrome wheels with Tangerine-colored center caps, along with 'Dream Cruiser Series 2' badging

The interior is dressed in contrasting Tangerine and Dark Slate colors. A leather-wrapped steering wheel with perforated leather inserts and a center horn area with an integral Chrysler winged badge are standard equipment.

Chrysler will launch this autumn the 215bhp Chrysler PT Turbo, and a two-door PT Convertible will go on sale in early 2004.

Jim Schroer, executive vice president of Chrysler sales and marketing, said that cars such as the PT Cruiser that draw from classic car designs 'must not copy the past'. "If you try to recreate the past, you can never beat it," he said. "You can't reincarnate Elvis."

The Chrysler Group presented the first concept leading up to the Chrysler PT Cruiser in the spring of 1998 at the Geneva Motor Show with the Pronto Cruizer. It was followed in 1999 by the Company's most short-lived concept car, the PT Cruiser, since the production version was rolled out within five minutes at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Chrysler GT Cruiser and Panel Cruiser concepts made their world premier in 2000, while in 2001 the Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible Styling Study made its debut at the New York Auto Show.

From its launch as a production vehicle in February 2000 through July 2002, nearly 444,000 Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles have been sold worldwide. It is available in Ireland in two versions - petrol and diesel.