The Chrysler Technology Center has 5.4 million square feet of floor space, which – outside of the Pentagon – makes it the largest headquarters in North America. This monster of a facility allows developers to work from the beginning of the design phase all the way to concept production and testing. The facility has 129 different dynamometers that are in constant operation, and a climate testing cell that can generate temperatures between -40 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. That particular cell is also able to simulate a snow storm or intense rainstorm with wind speeds up to 100 mph -- allowing developers to test vehicles in any condition without traveling to different parts of the world or keeping up with weather conditions.

That climate cell just got a major update to the tune of $2.5 million. The most important part of the update is a brand new, four-wheel-drive dynamometer that can handle vehicles with up to 350 horsepower at the front wheels and 650 in the rear. In addition to the new testing equipment, Chrysler->ke21 also updated the ventilation system so that it can test vehicles with high-output and diesel engines. Consumers are snatching up four- and all-wheel-drive vehicles faster than ever, and Chrysler feels the most recent upgrade will help it better deliver the durability its customers expect. The CTC located in Auburn Hills, Michigan and has run 24 hours a day for the last 24 years.

Continue reading for the full story.

Why it matters

Chrysler uses the climatic test cell to see how well its vehicles hold up under just about any condition imaginable. Its goal makes sense – provide the most durable and reliable vehicle possible. I hope it enables it to bring more durability to its line. When I worked as mechanic I can’t even count the number of times I’ve had to tear into the front-end of a 300C->ke937 for a clunking noise, or replace the totally integrated power module used on most Chrysler vehicles.

Personally, I’m more concerned with Chrysler's inability to prevent serious safety recalls->ke5153 like the most recent airbag recall on the Dodge Charger. I think Chrysler is putting too much effort into distracting consumers from the problems at hand. Until Chrysler can provide a vehicle that isn’t going to rip my face off when an airbag inadvertently deploys, or catch on fire 10 minutes after I drive off the lot, I won't be overly impressed.

2015 Jeep Renegade

Read our full review here.