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Chrysler reveals 200C electric vehicle concept at the Detroit auto show

Chrysler LLC jolted automotive journalists ready to see the world premiere of four production-vehicle-based electric cars and trucks at the Detroit Auto Show, adding a surprise electric show car dubbed the 200C EV. Chrysler co-President Jim Press said the 200C and other electric vehicles show "there's evidence here of ongoing investment in the future." The stylish concept car features the same range-extending electric drive system deployed in several other production-intent Chrysler EVs revealed at the Detroit show, including the Town & Country EV minivan, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited EV and Jeep Patriot EV. Chrysler also unveiled the all-electric plug-in Dodge Circuit EV, a Lotus Europa-based electric concept with an estimated range of 150-200 miles.

Consumer Reports releases 2013 reliability rankings

Japanese brands continue to dominate the Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability rankings, while some European brands gained and Ford Motor Co. continued to rank near the bottom of the industry. Lexus, Toyota and Acura swept the top three spots in the 2013 rankings and Japanese brands took seven of the top 10 places.

Publisher KC Crain promoted to vice president/group publisher

AutoWeek publisher KC Crain, 30, has been named vice president/group publisher at Crain Communications Inc. with responsibility for Plastics News, Rubber & Plastics News, Tire Business and Waste & Recycling News, based in Akron, Ohio. He will also supervise the European-based titles of European Plastics News, European Rubber Journal, Plastics and Rubber Weekly and Urethanes Technology International.