PRESS RELEASE: New 2010 Models Arrive with Cool Features to Warm Up the Automotive Market

Contact: Brenda Dash
Phone: 713-478-2093
Email: bdash@planetdodgetexas.com

HUMBLE, TX – Whether you want to keep your soft drinks cold or your hands warm, new 2010 model-year vehicles are arriving to Randall Reed’s Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Humble with a wide variety of features to make life on the road a little more comfortable.

“Heated steering wheels and built-in beverage coolers are just a couple of the unique features available on 2010 model-year cars and trucks,” said Randall Reed. “While customers aren’t going to choose a certain vehicle just because it has lighted cup holders, they do appreciate the thoughtfulness of the small details – especially it if it eliminates coffee spills during late night driving.

“Performance, fuel economy, vehicle size and price are still important drivers of buyer decisions,” Reed said, “But, often it’s the ‘creature features’ that new vehicle owners like to show off to their friends and neighbors.”

Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep is replenishing its vehicle inventory as new 2010 model-year Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles continue to arrive. Some examples of the unique comfort and utility features that can be found on 2010 vehicles follow:

Chill Zone® acts as a cooled-beverage storage bin holding up to four, 20-ounce bottles or cans. It is available on Dodge Caliber, Avenger and Journey.

Heated Steering Wheel fights the cold of winter mornings and is activated either by a switch inside the vehicle or by using the remote start function. It is available on the Ram 1500.

Illuminated front cup holders make it easier to find your drink in the dark. It is available on Dodge Caliber and Journey and Jeep® Patriot and Compass.

MusicGate Power™ speakers swing down from the rear liftgate and face rearward for entertaining at tailgate parties and picnics. It is available on Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass and Patriot.

Rear Cross Path warns a driver backing out of a parking space that traffic is moving toward his or her vehicle. It is exclusively available on Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

Blind Spot Monitoring notifies the driver using side-view mirror icons and audible charms if a vehicle is in the blind spot when changing lanes. It is available on Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

Integrated child booster seats have a movable seat cushion that can stay in the normal position for older children and adults, or the seat can be raised to accommodate children between four and eight years and 40-80 pounds. It is available on Dodge Journey and Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country.

RamBox is an industry-first cargo management system built into the bed rails for versatile, weatherproof, lockable and drainable storage. It is available on Ram 1500.

“Store-in-the-floor” bins offer versatile, covered storage in the floor of the vehicle. It is available on Chrysler Town & Country, Ram 1500 and Dodge Journey and Grand Caravan.

Multi-displacement system seamlessly alternates the engine between smooth, fuel-efficient four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is requested. It is available on Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500, and Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee.

Voice Command lets drivers select radio stations, choose satellite radio channels, enter navigation destinations and make phone calls using voice recognition technology. Voice command is standard with the Uconnect phone feature available on Chrysler 300, Sebring, Sebring Convertible and Town & Country; Dodge Avenger, Grand Caravan, Caliber, Challenger, Charger, Dakota, Journey and Nitro; Ram 1500; Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander, Compass, Liberty and Patriot.

Sirius Backseat TV™ is exclusively available on Chrysler Group vehicles and offers commercial-free satellite broadcasts of Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. It is available on Chrysler 300 and Town & Country; Dodge Charger, Grand Caravan, Journey and Nitro; Jeep Commander, Grand Cherokee and Liberty; and Ram 1500 and 2500/3500.

Rain-sensing wipers automatically detect moisture on the windshield and activate the wipers. It is available on Chrysler 300, Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee.

Remote Start will turn on the vehicle and its automatic climate control (if equipped) to heat or cool the vehicle as needed. The remote start is integrated in the key fob and works up to 300 feet away. It is available on Chrysler 300, Sebring, Sebring Convertible and Town & Country; Dodge Caliber, Charger, Dakota, Grand Caravan and Nitro; Ram 1500; Jeep Patriot, Compass, Commander, Grand Cherokee and Liberty.

Stow ‘n Go® provides second- and third-row seating that quickly and conveniently folds into the floor for more cargo space when the seating space isn’t required. It is unique to the minivan segment and is available on Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

Swivel ‘n Go™ features second-row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row, a removable table that installs between the two rows, and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating. It is exclusive in the minivan segment and available on Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

About Randall Reed’s Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep

Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep is an authorized new vehicle dealer affiliated with Chrysler Group LLC and sells Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles. Chrysler Group LLC was formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group and produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge Car, Ram Truck, Mopar® and Global Electric Motors (GEM) brand vehicles and products. Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep provides warranty service for all Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles.
Randall Reed’s Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep is part of the World Class Automotive (WCAO) family of dealerships owned by Randall Reed. Randall owns and operates some of the most successful dealerships in the nation and has he been recognized as a “Top 100 Mega Dealer” by Wards Dealer Business.

Under Randall’s aggressive leadership, WCAO has grown to include 8 Ford Lincoln Mercury, 1 Dodge, 1 Chrysler, 1 Jeep and 1 Hyundai franchises as well as 2 pre-owned super centers making WCAO the largest independent automotive retailer in Texas! The family of dealerships include:

• Randall Reed’s Planet Ford 45 in Spring, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Planet Ford 59 in Humble, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Humble, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Online Auto Liquidator Pre-Owned Super Center, Humble, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Prestige Ford Lincoln Mercury in Garland, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Planet Pre-Owned Super Center in Mesquite, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Park Cities Ford Lincoln Mercury in Dallas, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Hillcrest Ford Lincoln Mercury in Huntsville, Texas
• Randall Reed’s Hillcrest Hyundai in Huntsville, Texas

”It’s all about people…the right people, in the right positions doing the right things.” says Randall Reed. The Randall Reed organization instills solid philosophies, beliefs, and moral fiber throughout all facets of the operations. Then they mix a lot of best-offer advertising, with a ton of inventory, and prices that are absolutely rock bottom. Customer after customer reaps the reward of getting the vehicle they want at the price they want at any Randall Reed dealership.

Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Humble, Texas hosts Toys for Tots drive.

HUMBLE - The public is invited to join the Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep dealership staff, customers, family and friends, in participating in the annual Toys for Tots program.

The dealership will collect toys at its Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep location in Humble through Tuesday, Dec. 15. The toys will then be distributed to underprivileged children.

New and unwrapped toys may be dropped off at our store location: 18555 Highway 59, Humble, TX 77338. For more information, please call: 281-359-7100.

Our Local Field of Dreams

Local business owner gives back

It's kind of hard to find too many things to get excited about these days. Everything's pretty tough both personally and business-wise for lots of folks. It seems one cannot turn on a TV or read a newspaper without seeing or hearing news about the economy, unemployment, manufactures and automobile dealerships failing or on the verge of bankruptcy.

When Randall Reed, Owner of the Planet Automotive Dealerships in Spring, Humble, Huntsville, Garland and Dallas, Texas was informed of this dilemma, he generously offered them the use of a lot adjacent to his Planet Dodge, Humble location. Randall commented, "It's not always about business. Our youth is our future! What better way to help young people build strong minds and bodies then with America's favorite past-time, baseball! When our community and children are in need, it's up to local businesses to do everything in our power for a better tomorrow!"

The affect of all of this can be felt everywhere. It seems that no one is held immune to the changes going on right now. Due to development, the local select baseball organization, "The Krush" lost their practice facilities and were left with nowhere for their teams to practice.

It seems that no one is held immune to the changes going on right now.

The Krush Baseball Organization immediately constructed a new practice field and was off to a great spring season winning 2 of their first 3 tournaments! Congratulations "Krush."

In these tough economic times, it is so refreshing to see that Mr. Reed and the Planet Organization continue to give back to the community. “Thank you Mr. Reed and thank you to the Planet Organization!” Stated Don Gould, Head Coach, Krush Baseball.

"Thank you Mr. Reed and thank you to the Planet Organization!"
-Don Gould
Head Coach, Krush Baseball

Randall Reed's Planet Dodge is NOW... Randall Reed's Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep

This information is to notify you that as of October 16, 2009, Deerbrook Forest Chrysler Jeep will no longer be able to provide services, as they will be closing their doors. However, all of your Sales, Parts, Service and Collision needs are right here at the all new Randall Reed’s Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep.

Location Information
We are conveniently located at 18555 Hwy. 59 North at the Will Clayton exit in Humble.

Randall Reed’s Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep has been designated as your authorized dealership for all of your automotive needs. As your appointed Dealer, it is very important that you contact us at your earliest convenience, so that we may arrange a complimentary consultation and inspection of your vehicle. This will ensure that all of your service records and sales histories are transferred properly.

Your Satisfaction is Our Priority
Chrysler chose to partner with our family-owned dealership due to our 30-year history as one of its top-rated American dealers in both retail and customer satisfaction. I feel confident that once you have experienced our extraordinary customer service and volume buying discounts, you will become a valued Planet customer for life.

Welcome Special
To help make your first visit a special one, please accept our complimentary Oil & Filter Change Plus 27-Point Inspection “Get Acquainted” Offer. Simply call our dedicated new customer toll-free hotline at 1-800-652-5413 to arrange an appointment. At that time, we will also perform the mandated Chrysler Jeep inspection of your vehicle.

We look forward to serving you and your vehicle.

Sincerely,
Randall Reed

Chrysler Group LLC announces, “Double CA$H for Your Old Car,”

Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 22, 2009 – Chrysler Group LLC announced new incentives, “Double CA$H for Your Old Car,” that can save consumers up to $9,000 toward the purchase of a new Chrysler, Jeep® or Dodge vehicle.
# Every consumer shopping for a new vehicle qualifies
# Consumers can receive up to $4,500 for the purchase of an eligible, new 2009 Model Year Chrysler, Jeep(R) or Dodge vehicle
# Chrysler Group incentive is in addition to the U.S. Government “CARS” program. Consumers with an eligible trade-in under the CARS program can receive up to $9,000 towards the purchase of an eligible new Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle

“Everyone shopping for a new car or truck qualifies for an incentive of up to $4,500 – even if they don’t have a vehicle that qualifies under the U.S. Government’s program,” said Steven Beahm, Vice President – Sales Operations, Chrysler Group LLC. “This incentive is great in that it’s easy to understand and available to everyone.”

Beginning July 23, 2009, Chrysler Group LLC will offer up to $4,500 Consumer Cash or 0 percent financing for 72 months through GMAC Financial Services on most 2009 model vehicles. These incentives are valid through August 31, 2009.

July 23, 2009 also marks the start of the U.S. Government’s Car Allowance Rebate Systems (CARS) program, more commonly known as “cash for clunkers.” The CARS program offers a government credit of either $3,500 or $4,500 for trading in an inefficient vehicle that is not more than 25 years old for the purchase of a new vehicle. The amount of the credit is determined based on the fuel-economy improvement between the turn-in vehicle and the new vehicle purchased.

“The administration’s program is aimed at getting less fuel-efficient vehicles off the road, and for vehicles that meet the requirements, offers a great incentive to do so,” Beahm said. “But we didn’t want consumers without qualifying vehicles to feel left out so we are offering up to $4,500 to everyone.”

Chrysler Group offers consumers 35 Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles from which to choose at almost 2,400 Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships located across the United States.

Do you qualify? "Cash for Clunkers" - CARS (Cash Allowance Rebate System)

Commonly known as the Cash for Clunkers program, the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) is the government's new vehicle trade-in program and Randall Reed's Planet Dodge in Humble is your expert.

There are two cash vouchers that can be issued when a consumer purchases a new, not used, car. If the new car gets 4 miles per gallon more than their current car, you may qualify for a voucher of $3,500 toward the purchase of a new vehicle. If the increase is 10 miles per gallon, you may qualify for a voucher of $4,500 voucher toward the purchase of a new vehicle.

We will make it easy for you to receive your incentive, recycle your old vehicle and save on a new, high-quality Dodge vehicle.

CLICK HERE to submit your trade information and desired new Dodge vehicle information and let us help you figure out what rebate you may qualify for.



Or CLICK HERE to research your trade with Dodge.

With many Dodge vehicles eligible, we are confident you will find the model that fits your needs.

To be eligible for the program, you must trade-in a vehicle that meets the following criteria:

• Must have been manufactured less than 25 years before the date you trade it in
• Must have a "new" combined city/highway fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon or less
• Must be in drivable condition and must have been continuously insured and registered to the same owner for the full year preceding the trade-in

Note: For some transactions, work trucks (very large pickup trucks and cargo vans) only qualify if they are 2001 model year or earlier.

In addition to the government incentive, you may also be eligible for additional Dodge discounts. Contact us today to get your best deal at 800-652-5413.

NEWS: Special Tax Break Available for New Car Purchases This Year

IR-2009-30, March 30, 2009

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that taxpayers who buy a new passenger vehicle this year may be entitled to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase on their 2009 tax returns next year.
“For those thinking about buying a new car this year, this deduction may give them a little more drive to make their purchase this year,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. “This deduction enables taxpayers to buy now and get cash back later on their tax returns.”

The deduction is limited to the state and local sales and excise taxes paid on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of a qualified new car, light truck, motor home or motorcycle.

The amount of the deduction is phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers and between $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers.

IRS also alerted taxpayers that the vehicle must be purchased after Feb. 16, 2009, and before Jan. 1, 2010, to qualify for the deduction.

The special deduction is available regardless of whether a taxpayer itemizes deductions on their return. The IRS reminded taxpayers the deduction may not be taken on 2008 tax returns.

For more information go to: www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=205863,00.html

Chrysler Takes Steps in Quality

Monday, February 23, 2009
Chrysler takes steps in quality
Executive works on team approach to get everyone on same page; results are encouraging.
Alisa Priddle / The Detroit News

The first thing Doug Betts did when he arrived at Chrysler LLC in October 2007 to oversee quality was define the term so everyone would be on the same page to fix problems.

The Auburn Hills automaker had not scored well in quality surveys, which has been costly in terms of lost sales.

Betts noted similarities to problems he encountered as a troubleshooter at Nissan Motor Co. following poor product launches in 2003. Months of brainstorming at Nissan became Chrysler's gain, as Betts said he knew within days of arriving what needed to be done at Chrysler.

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"The people at Chrysler were very open to trying something different," said Betts, an engineer who spent a decade at Toyota Motor Corp. before Nissan.

There are roughly the same number of people working on quality at Chrysler today, but they are organized in 18 cross-functional teams of about eight people each, instead of by department.

The teams are organized around parts of the car with goals to fix problems immediately. Time is not wasted arguing over whose problem it is, he said.

There are signs Betts' changes are working. Chrysler recalled the fewest vehicles among the six major automakers last year, 361,065, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Ford Motor Co. recalled 1.6 million vehicles, General Motors Corp. 1.8 million, Honda Motor Co. almost 800,000 and Toyota Motor Corp. 833,000. Chrysler was the No. 4 automaker in the United States last year, selling 1.5 million vehicles, behind GM, Toyota and Ford.

Chrysler's recall performance last year marked an improvement over 2007, when the automaker recalled 576,418 vehicles, more than GM and just shy of Toyota's tally.

Also, according to Chrysler's internal data, the number of warranty claims after three months' ownership improved 21 percent in the last four months of 2008, contributing to a 30 percent improvement last year compared to 2007. For consumers, that means almost a third fewer visits to the dealer for repairs, Betts said. For Chrysler, it reduced warranty costs by $240 million in 2008.

But Chrysler, battling to survive amid the worst sales downturn in the U.S. auto industry in decades, still has to convince consumers it builds better vehicles than it used to.

"Perception will lag the improvement for a long time, even if they are making strides," said Stephanie Brinley, product analyst with AutoPacific in Troy. "It takes two (product) life cycles for consumers to truly understand there is a difference."

Betts is quick to acknowledge that consumers rely on third-party evaluations such as Consumer Reports' reliability reviews, which rate automakers against the industry average, and that Chrysler has consistently failed to meet the industry average. For the 2008 model year, Chrysler vehicles were "quite a bit worse," said Betts, who came into the job knowing quality has recently been Chrysler's Achilles heel.

Early indications from testing the 2009 Dodge Ram, one of the company's flagship vehicles, show improved quality, especially for interior materials, which "are much higher grade and look better," said Jonathan Linkov, managing editor of autos at Consumer Reports.

But similar upgrades are needed across the lineup, he said, especially extending to bread-and-butter vehicles such as the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger midsize cars and the smaller Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass and Patriot, which were launched with hard plastic interiors and poorly placed panel gaps.

"They are a good example of bad interior execution," Linkov said, although he acknowledged improvements to the Jeep interiors for 2009.

Linkov noted that poor quality vehicles were launched during Daimler AG's ownership of Chrysler but quality has improved since Cerberus Capital Management LP assumed a majority share of Chrysler in 2007.

They are still not Toyota quality, but are better than past Chrysler products, Linkov said.

The question now is whether Chrysler's limited resources -- the automaker is trying to stave off bankruptcy by cutting costs and relying on federal loans -- will be directed at new products or to redo existing ones, Linkov said.

Consumers Reports makes recommendations based on a three-year window of reliability, so Betts knows there won't be any grand declarations after one good year.

But he is confident things will continue to improve.

"Every month for the next few months," he said, "I'm going to be saying we've set a new warranty record."