MoVenture to pit 10 teams on 1,900-mile cross-country jaunt

(July 16, 2011) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — As far as we know, Jesse James’ hideout didn’t make the list and neither did Dogpatch, USA. There also is nothing on the scavenger hunt list about viewing “live rattlers” or stopping to collect fireworks.

But for 10 pairs of drivers and navigators driving new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Fiat vehicles, the next seven days will take them on a “MoVenture” road rally along 1,900 miles of roads with stops at nearly every form of Americana that many enjoyed from the third seat of the family station wagon.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy the local cuisine and take in attractions that are found off the beaten path of the Interstates.

The first leg of the adventure is slated to start at Chrysler headquarters, just north of Detroit, today (July 16). Following seven days on the road and more than 1,900 miles later, the rally concludes and participants have the opportunity to view the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Col.

Staged by Mopar, Chrysler Goup’s service, parts and customer-care brand, the road rally and scavenger hunt will take the teams along a diverse set of roads encompassing metropolitan centers and small towns. Not just a point-to-point driving event, MoVenture rally participants will earn points on the scavenger hunt looking for items, taking pictures of local scenery and sharing their experiences with friends and followers via social media networks, including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

“Most people know us for our performance business because of our successful history in racing including the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals,” said Tricia Hecker, Head of Marketing, Mopar. “Mopar is much more than racing. We can service and support virtually any need a car owner has and we want to demonstrate this value proposition. MoVenture also is an opportunity to meet an intense group of Mopar enthusiasts, share their experiences along the way, all while enjoying the great American tradition of a summer road trip.”

With Shell picking up the tab for fuel and Autonet mobile providing in-vehicle units for free Wi-Fi along the way, there are no worries about running out of gas money or getting lost on back roads.

After a month-long search with applicants turning in videos expressing their passion for Mopar and why they wanted to participate in the trip, 10 teams have been selected by Chrysler Group brands to take part in the MoVenture by Mopar.