Chrysler Spiff Takes Fuel Cost Out of Buying Equation

Chrysler LLC is taking the worry out of rising gasoline and diesel prices with a new broad-based sales incentive program that will cap fuel costs at $2.99 per gallon for new-vehicle buyers.

Dubbed “Let’s Refuel America,” the offer is available on 23 models ranging from the small Dodge Caliber to the heavy-duty version of the Dodge Ram pickup purchased in the U.S. through June 2. Not eligible are SRT models; Dodge Viper, Challenger, Sprinter and Ram Chassis Cab; Chrysler Crossfire; and Jeep Wrangler.

The fuel guarantee comes on top of additional cash-back offers of up to $3,000 on several vehicles, including the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Dodge Charger, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Dakota and Dodge Ram.

Buyers of eligible vehicles will receive a credit card allowing them to purchase gasoline for three years at the $2.99 rate. The amount eligible for purchase annually will be based on 12,000 miles (19,312 km) of travel per year divided by the vehicle’s estimated fuel economy.

Owners will be allowed to purchase regular gasoline, E85 or diesel fuel at select service stations at the $2.99 price. If mid-grade or premium gasoline is purchased, buyers will be charged an extra $0.15 and $0.30, respectively, per gallon, plus a $2 service fee per transaction.

Chrysler says the program comes as a result of feedback from its Customer Advisory Board, created in February. The auto maker says 78% of those in its advisory board community are “very” or “extremely” concerned about fuel prices and 83% say they plan to alter their summer vacation plans as a result.

But mainly the auto maker is looking for a way to revive slumping sales, particularly in the light-truck sector. Chrysler light-vehicle deliveries fell 29.7% in April vs. year-ago, including a 31.1% plunge in light-truck demand.