MONROE - Monroe Dodge Chrysler Jeep Superstore will open up its new $15,000 test track this morning with a special event to commemorate the events of Sept. 11, 2001.
The track will allow prospective Jeep customers to test the trail-rated vehicles in off-road conditions by traversing 18 obstacles such as a 25-foot-tall hill, rock and log crawls, and a mud pit.
The quarter-mile course was designed by Steve Gordinier of Highland, Mich., who builds off-road courses for Chrysler Group LLC's annual Camp Jeep event and the private Jeep Jamboree U.S.A. event.
"Car-buying is not always the funnest thing to do in the world, so we wanted to do something to promote something fun," said J.P. Mahalak, one of the dealership's owners. "We're just trying to provide a free, fun course. There are not many vehicles out there that can do many of the things that these Jeeps can do."
Drivers, or passengers, are required to be at least 18 years old and sign a liability waiver to participate, and must be accompanied by a dealership employee, Mr. Mahalak said.
Those interested can use a Toledo-made Wrangler or Liberty, or a Detroit-made Grand Cherokee or Commander, to traverse the course.
The vehicles travel in 4-wheel-drive Low, and in first gear, over the course, making the ride approximately 9 minutes long.
First Published September 11, 2009, 10:54 a.m.
