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FCA issuing software update for 1.4M vehicles to prevent hacking

In the wake of a Jeep Cherokee being hacked remotely while on the road through its Uconnect infotainment system, FCA US is now issuing a software update for 1.4 million vehicles in the United States. Affected customers will receive a USB stick in the mail with the improved version; owners can check this website to see if their cars are affected. A large variety of models with FCA's 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system are affected. They include the 2015 Chrysler 200, 2015 Chrysler 300, 2015 Dodge Charger, and 2015 Dodge Challenger; 2013-2015 Dodge Viper; 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500; 2013-2015 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 chassis cab; 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Cherokee; and 2014-2015 Dodge Durango. According to FCA in its announcement, the new software "insulates connected vehicles from remote manipulation." As of July 23, the company also "fully tested and implemented within the cellular network" additional security to prevent access to many of a vehicle's systems. FCA US says that it's conducting this campaign out of an abundance of caution and disputes the notion that there's a defect with these vehicles. Beyond the demonstration of the hack in the Cherokee, the automaker says that it's unaware of any other reports of these attacks actually happening. Related Video: Statement: Software Update July 24, 2015 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC is conducting a voluntary safety recall to update software in approximately 1,400,000 U.S. vehicles equipped with certain radios. The recall aligns with an ongoing software distribution that insulates connected vehicles from remote manipulation, which, if unauthorized, constitutes criminal action. Further, FCA US has applied network-level security measures to prevent the type of remote manipulation demonstrated in a recent media report. These measures – which required no customer or dealer actions – block remote access to certain vehicle systems and were fully tested and implemented within the cellular network on July 23, 2015. The Company is unaware of any injuries related to software exploitation, nor is it aware of any related complaints, warranty claims or accidents – independent of the media demonstration.

2016 Dodge Viper ACR priced from $117,895

Fancy getting your hands on the all-new Dodge Viper ACR? Prepare to shell out at least $117,895, not counting destination or gas-guzzler tax. Those two add $1,995 and $2,100, respectively, for an out-the-door price of $121,990. That's $32,900 more than a base 2015 Viper, or the equivalent of a Challenger with a few options. As we explained previously, the ACR model doesn't do much for outright power – the 8.4-liter V10 offers up only five more ponies than before – but it does add suspension and aerodynamic upgrades that make this particular Viper far more potent on the track. The order books are officially open for the ACR, so if you've got the coin, get in touch with your local dealer. Until then, head into Comments and let us know what you think of the ACR's pricing. Would you shell out $118,000 for the ultimate Viper? DODGE OPENS ORDER BANKS FOR NEW 2016 DODGE VIPER ACR The fastest street-legal Viper track car ever offers a tremendous value for performance May 12, 2015 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Viper enthusiasts with the need for ultimate handling, performance and road course domination, as well as the ability to drive their Viper home from the track, can now place their orders for the fastest street-legal Viper track car ever. The Dodge brand has announced pricing and opened order banks for the recently introduced 2016 Dodge Viper ACR. Unveiled last week at the revamped Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit, the American Club Racer model of the iconic, hand-built American supercar will have a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $117,895 (excluding destination and gas guzzler tax). "Bringing our street-legal Dodge Viper ACR back is going to arm our track enthusiasts with the ultimate weapon to dominate road courses across the country," said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO - Dodge and SRT Brands, FCA - North America. "This is without a doubt the best Viper ACR ever. The latest in aerodynamic, braking and tire technology will ensure its legendary performance reputation around the world." Originally introduced in 1999 and last available for the 2010 model year, the Viper ACR has a long-standing legacy as the ultimate street-legal track car for club racing. The new 2016 model honors that performance legacy with significant aerodynamic and suspension upgrades, new Carbon Ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers and high-performance tires specifically designed for ACR.

Fiat Chrysler taps Amazon, Shell execs to fill roles

MILAN — Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is tapping executives from Amazon and Shell Oil Company with previous automotive industry experience to fill its ranks. CEO Mike Manley said in a letter to employees Thursday that Mark Stewart would join FCA as chief operating officer of North America from Amazon, "a company known for its culture of innovation, and obsession with delivering incredible value to customers." At Amazon, Stewart led teams focused on advanced robotics, artificial intelligence and automation methods. He previously was COO of ZF TRW automotive components supplier. Niel Golightly was named head of global communications. He was most recently Shell's vice president for external relations in North and South America, with a focus on reputation, brand and stakeholder engagement beyond communication strategies. He previously held roles at Ford Motor Company. Related Video: Image Credit: REUTERS/Rebecca Cook Hirings/Firings/Layoffs Alfa Romeo Chrysler Dodge Fiat Jeep RAM FCA Amazon shell Mike Manley