Euro Camp Jeep, Europe's largest single-brand 4x4 customer event, will once again celebrate a record attendance this year, as more than 1,500 customers and 650 Jeep vehicles gather in southern France for the ultimate celebration of all things Jeep.
To accommodate the growing number of participants at this seventh annual Euro Camp Jeep, the event will, for the first time, consist of back-to-back programs - half of the participants will take part from June 30 to July 3 and the other half from July 4 to 7. The event location is in one of Europe's most picturesque regions in France, known for its limestone caves and the Ardche River, which is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts.
Jeep aficionados, their families and friends will flock to Euro Camp Jeep to explore a full range of activities, including off-road driving trails, fun vehicle-related challenges, navigation and orienteering trials and invigorating regional drives through scenic countryside. Non-driving activities will include canoeing, quad biking, a Jeep clothing and merchandise shop, daily video shows, themed dinner parties and live evening concerts.
"The growing popularity of Euro Camp Jeep is not only a result of our impressive sales increase, but more a testimony to owners' passion for the Jeep brand and all it represents," said Thomas Hausch, Vice President - International Sales, Chrysler Group. "Guests will be traveling from as far as Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and China, and from a record 28 different countries. Each year the reputation of the event grows, and more customers spread the word that Euro Camp Jeep is not to be missed."
Participants will also be given a privileged look at the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, making its first appearance in Europe with a refreshed interior and exterior. The latest Grand Cherokee features an improved 4.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers improved fuel economy, as well as increased horsepower and torque compared with the engine it replaces. The Grand Cherokee also offers a host of innovative premium amenities, such as the MyGIGTM Multimedia Infotainment System, an advanced and flexible Hill Descent Control system providing more control in severe off-road hill descent, a new Hill Start Assist system that holds the vehicle automatically on steep hills for a smooth and controlled drive-away from stop signs and traffic signals, and Trailer Sway Control to minimize trailer sway during towing.
The Jeep Trailhawk Concept also makes its European debut at Euro Camp Jeep. This concept vehicle had its global premiere at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in January in Detroit. Trailhawk merges the spectrum of the Jeep brand by combining the core off-road features of the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the refined sophistication of an all-new on-road, open-air concept vehicle, providing a unique and fresh expression for Jeep.
Adding to the excitement will be two Jeep Wrangler Unlimited vehicles that set a new world record by climbing 6,646 meters (21,804 feet) to the rim of the world's highest volcano, Ojos del Salado in Chile. The achievement was certified by Guinness World RecordsTM. The pair of standard equipment Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon models maneuvered over glaciers, rock cliffs and volcanic sand, battling through thin air, hurricane-strength winds and extreme temperatures to break the altitude record for a four-wheeled vehicle.
As part of the courses at Euro Camp Jeep, off-road driving experts will offer advanced 4x4 techniques and coaching that comply with the "Tread Lightly!" philosophy of responsible off-road driving and protection of the environment. Participants can also learn much more about their vehicles by talking directly with attending Jeep engineers. A "Jeep Kids" activity area will offer adventures for younger family members.