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Mopar
Mopar
from Wikipedia

Mopar (a portmanteau of "motor" and "parts")[1] is an American car parts, service, and customer care division of the former Chrysler Corporation, now owned by Netherlands-based automobile manufacturer Stellantis. It serves as a primary OEM accessory seller for Stellantis companies under the Mopar brand. "Mopar" is also commonly used by automotive enthusiasts as a metonym for Chrysler, and for vehicles sold by its divisions.[2]

Key Information

Mopar also designs and builds a small number of customized vehicles.

History

[edit]
Mopar Parts magazine advertisement from 1954

The term was created by an internal activities council and was first used by Chrysler in 1937 as a product name to put on cans of Chrysler Motor Parts Antifreeze.[1] This new branded product became known as "MoPar antifreeze" a portmanteau of the terms "motor" and "parts".[3]

Mopar parts are original equipment manufactured parts for FCA US LLC vehicles. The term "Mopar" has passed into broader usage among car enthusiasts as an unambiguous reference to vehicles produced by former parent company Chrysler Corporation/Chrysler Group LLC/FCA US LLC, now known as Stellantis. [4][5]

The term has thus become an inclusive word for any Chrysler-built vehicle— almost any Dodge, Chrysler, Plymouth, Imperial, DeSoto, Fargo (Canada-only in later years) or Dodge Trucks/Ram. By extension, it is also used for Jeep and AMC vehicles built after Chrysler's 1987 buyout of American Motors Corporation, including the short-lived Eagle brand.[6][7]

In Canada, Chrysler parts were sold under the "Chryco" and "AutoPar" brands until the Mopar brand was introduced into that nation's market, starting in the late 1970s.

Custom cars

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Mopar does not have dedicated assembly lines. There are 13 Mopar Custom Shops that install customer-chosen accessories on their vehicles prior to delivery.

There are also limited-edition Mopar versions of Stellantis vehicles. These are marketed featuring custom paint and equipped with numerous Mopar performance and cosmetic modifications.[8]

An example was the 2013 Dodge Dart finished in black with an offset Mopar Blue racing stripe and featuring sport-tuned steering, exhaust, premium brakes with slotted rotors, lowered sport suspension, and gloss black 18-inch aluminum wheels with low profile performance tires. The Dart had production plans for 500 units.[9]

A special edition Mopar 2017 Dodge Challenger was introduced at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show as part of 80th anniversary of the Mopar brand.[10] A total of 160 were built: half were finished in "contusion blue" with "pitch black" effects and the second half in "billet silver" with "pitch black" accents.[10]

Sponsorship

[edit]
Two examples of Mopar sponsorships: sprint car racing (left) and drag racing (right)

Over its 80 years, Mopar has sponsored a number of racers in a variety of motorsports series.

In 1996, Mopar sponsored the No. 30 car of Jimmy Hensley in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. From 2004 to 2007 Mopar sponsored the No. 9 car driven by Kasey Kahne in the Nextel Cup Series for the Bank of America 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. They also sponsored his sprint car.

In the United States and Canada, Mopar participates in Formula D. Formula Drift drivers are Samuel Hübinette, and in Canadian Drift Championship Vanessa Ozawa, Kevin Huynh, and John Yakomoto. Mopar had sponsored NHRA drag racer Allen Johnson in that series' Pro Stock division for 20 years, but for 2016 season they sponsored Jegs Coughlin Jr. and Erica Enders-Stevens.[11]

Mopar remains active in drag racing events. It sponsors Don Schumacher Racing drivers, such as Tony Schumacher, in the Funny Car and Top Fuel classes of the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series.[12] Drivers of the Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Pak are eligible for a variety of Mopar contingency awards and benefits.[13]

Mopar sponsors the Mopar Mile-High NHRA Nationals held each July in Denver.[14] It is the longest-running sponsorship in all of drag racing.[15]

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Mopar is the global service, parts, and customer care of , specializing in genuine (OEM) parts, accessories, and maintenance services for its automotive lineup, including the , , , Ram, and brands. The name "Mopar" is a portmanteau of "motor" and "parts," derived from the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation, which was established in 1929 to meet the growing demand for components following Chrysler's acquisition of Dodge the previous year. Over the decades, Mopar has evolved from a parts supplier into a comprehensive synonymous with , , and enthusiast-driven enhancements, supporting millions of owners worldwide through a network of authorized dealers and distribution centers. The brand's origins trace back to the late 1920s amid the rapid expansion of the Chrysler Corporation, which recognized the need for reliable, in-house parts production to service its expanding fleet of automobiles. In 1937, "Mopar" was officially trademarked and introduced to the public as a label for automotive products, beginning with antifreeze containers that featured the distinctive name for easy identification. This marked the start of Mopar's public identity, which quickly expanded beyond antifreeze to encompass a full range of engine components, filters, and accessories designed for precise fit and durability. By the mid-20th century, key infrastructure developments solidified its foundation, including the opening of the first Mopar-named facility in Detroit in 1945 and the relocation of headquarters to Center Line, Michigan, in 1953. In the modern era, following the 2021 merger that formed from and , Mopar has continued to innovate as a key pillar of the multinational automaker, emphasizing , digital service tools, high-performance options for and customization, and expansions like the July 2025 launch of the Affiliated Accessories program offering over 1,000 aftermarket items. In January 2025, sold the Center Line facility but plans to maintain operations there temporarily while transitioning. Notable expansions include investments in advanced distribution centers, such as the more than $41 million facility announced in , in August 2025, to enhance parts availability and reduce delivery times across . As of 2025, Mopar's portfolio extends to over 500,000 unique parts and accessories, supporting not only routine maintenance but also specialized applications like off-road upgrades for vehicles and enhancements for muscle cars, all while maintaining a commitment to vehicle safety and longevity.

Brand Identity and Origins

Etymology and Introduction

Mopar is a portmanteau of the words "motor" and "parts," originally coined as a term within the Corporation to refer to automotive components. The name emerged in the late amid Chrysler's strategic expansion, particularly following its acquisition of the Brothers in 1928, which necessitated a unified system for sourcing and distributing parts across the growing lineup of brands. This informal usage laid the groundwork for standardizing replacement parts supply in an era of rapid corporate consolidation. In response to these needs, Chrysler established the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation in 1929, tasked with manufacturing and distributing original equipment quality parts for its vehicles, including those from the Chrysler, Dodge, DeSoto, and Plymouth divisions. The term "Mopar" served as a convenient abbreviation for this entity, emphasizing efficient parts logistics during the onset of the Great Depression. Although used internally earlier, the name received its first official branding and trademark in 1937, when it was applied to cans of antifreeze produced by the corporation, marking the beginning of its formal identity as a product line. Early marketing of Mopar in the late highlighted the reliability of its "factory engineered and inspected" components, positioning them as essential for dependable vehicle repairs amid economic recovery from the . Advertisements stressed the widespread availability of these genuine parts at thousands of authorized garages, underscoring their role in supporting owners with accessible maintenance solutions during a time when vehicle longevity was paramount for cash-strapped consumers. This focus on quality and distribution helped solidify Mopar's reputation as a trusted source for aftermarket needs in the pre-war automotive landscape.

Early Corporate Role

Following the acquisition of Dodge Brothers by Chrysler in 1928 for $170 million, the company recognized the need for a centralized system to manage parts production and distribution across its growing portfolio of brands, leading to the establishment of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) as a subsidiary in 1929. This entity served as the foundational parts division, initially focused on manufacturing, supplying, and distributing replacement components to streamline operations and cut costs for Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, and DeSoto vehicles. The business model emphasized efficiency through the use of interchangeable parts where feasible, allowing shared components across models to reduce redundancy and support economies of scale in an era of rapid automotive expansion. CMPC's organizational structure was designed as a dedicated arm of Corporation, headquartered near in , with early warehousing operations established in the area to handle inventory and shipping. These facilities centralized storage and distribution, enabling quicker delivery to service centers and minimizing downtime for vehicle owners amid the challenges of the . By the early 1930s, the division had implemented a robust that prioritized reliability, with parts shipped via rail and truck networks to regional depots. In , CMPC—later branded as Mopar—expanded its support for vehicle maintenance by introducing standardized parts catalogs, which provided detailed illustrations and numbering systems for easy identification and ordering. These catalogs were distributed to an emerging network of authorized dealers, fostering a nationwide service infrastructure that included over 5,000 dealerships by mid-decade and ensuring consistent availability of genuine parts. This early framework had significant economic impact during the 1930s, underpinning the service needs of Chrysler's brands as annual vehicle shipments climbed from approximately 270,000 units in 1931 to over 900,000 by 1937, helping sustain customer loyalty and aftermarket revenue amid fluctuating market conditions.

Historical Evolution

Formation and Early Expansion (1920s-1940s)

In 1928, Chrysler Corporation acquired , integrating its operations with existing brands like Plymouth and DeSoto to form a broader automotive portfolio. This consolidation created the need for a centralized parts manufacturing, supply, and distribution system to service the diverse lineup efficiently. As a result, the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation was established in 1929 as Chrysler's dedicated parts division, initially focusing on producing and distributing replacement components for dealerships and aftermarket needs across the consolidated brands. The brand was trademarked and introduced in 1937. Throughout the 1930s, the parts division expanded its infrastructure, establishing regional warehouses and improving logistics to support increasing vehicle sales and maintenance demands during the recovery. The entry into in 1941 marked a pivotal shift, as the division's facilities were repurposed for production under government contracts. Chrysler contributed significantly by manufacturing components for military vehicles, including tank hulls, tracks, and armor plating at the Arsenal Tank Plant, as well as aircraft engines at the plant. Over the course of the war, the company produced 17,947 s—primarily models—and 18,413 R-3350 engines for B-29 bombers, with output peaking in 1944 as facilities operated at full capacity to meet urgent Allied supply requirements. The conclusion of hostilities in initiated a rapid retooling phase for the parts division in and , converting wartime assembly lines back to automotive parts amid a surge in pent-up consumer demand. This transition included the opening of the first facility explicitly named for Mopar at 2985 East Jefferson Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, just days after , enhancing parts production capacity. Concurrently, operations expanded westward, with the Los Angeles assembly plant—previously focused on truck production—resuming assembly and bolstering the distribution network in to serve the growing West Coast market.

Post-War Growth and Muscle Car Era (1950s-1970s)

Following the end of , the parts division underwent significant expansion in the , capitalizing on the U.S. automotive boom fueled by economic prosperity, , and rising vehicle ownership rates that climbed from approximately 26 million registered automobiles in 1950 to over 50 million by 1960. Annual parts sales surpassed $100 million by 1955, reflecting increased demand for replacement components as Corporation's lineup, including Plymouth and models, proliferated on American roads. This growth prompted infrastructure investments, such as the relocation of headquarters to , in 1953, to support a burgeoning network of distribution centers and service facilities. The introduction of Hemi engine parts in 1964 marked a pivotal moment, initially supporting the 426 cubic-inch Race Hemi for and Plymouth racing applications, which debuted at the and propelled to victory. These components enabled high-performance builds that emphasized hemispherical combustion chambers for superior power output, setting the stage for street-legal versions in 1966. The engineering focus on robust, high-output V8s, including the 426 Hemi, catered to the growing appetite for speed among consumers and racers alike. During the peak of the muscle car era in the 1960s and 1970s, Mopar supplied essential components for legendary vehicles like the —introduced in 1966 as a —and the , launched in 1968 as an affordable performance option stripped of luxuries to maximize value. These models, often equipped with big-block engines such as the 440 cubic-inch Six Pack or 426 Hemi, embodied raw power with acceleration capabilities rivaling sports cars, thanks to performance kits including carburetors, exhaust systems, and suspension upgrades. Programs like Direct Connection fostered a dedicated enthusiast base and contributed to Mopar's iconic status in and street performance. The , triggered by the embargo, disrupted the high-performance landscape with soaring fuel prices and impending emissions regulations, prompting Mopar to pivot toward fuel-efficient parts such as low-compression pistons, efficient carburetors, and lightweight accessories compatible with smaller-displacement engines. Despite this shift, which curtailed factory production, enthusiast demand for classic high-output components persisted, allowing Mopar to maintain supply chains for restoration and modification projects that preserved the era's legacy.

Revival and Modernization (1980s-2010s)

In the , Mopar experienced a revival amid Chrysler's recovery from financial challenges, focusing on expanding its performance offerings to capitalize on the enduring popularity of classic muscle cars. The company launched the Mopar Performance Parts division in 1987, which provided factory-backed components such as crate engines and suspension kits designed for restoration and enhancement projects. These parts emphasized improved speed and handling, allowing enthusiasts to modernize vehicles while maintaining authentic Mopar engineering standards. The 1998 merger between Corporation and Daimler-Benz to form DaimlerChrysler marked a pivotal shift, enabling Mopar to broaden its global footprint by extending parts distribution networks into and . This integration leveraged Daimler's international infrastructure, resulting in a significantly expanded catalog that supported diverse vehicle lines across continents. By the early , Mopar's inventory encompassed hundreds of thousands of part numbers, reflecting the merged entity's commitment to unified efficiency. The 2009 strategic alliance between Chrysler and Fiat Group further transformed Mopar's operations, incorporating Italian engineering expertise into its parts ecosystem and fostering the development of more fuel-efficient components. This collaboration aligned with emerging regulatory demands for lower emissions and better performance in global markets. A key advancement in the 2010s was the digital transformation of Mopar's customer services, beginning with the launch of the Mopar eStore online parts portal in late , which streamlined access to over 100,000 genuine components for direct ordering. Complementing this, Mopar introduced vehicle-specific mobile apps in 2010, providing owners with tools for scheduling, information, and service history tracking via smartphones. These innovations supported millions of annual parts orders, enhancing accessibility and reinforcing Mopar's role in total customer care. In 2021, the merger of and formed , positioning Mopar as a central pillar for the multinational automaker's global parts and service operations across brands like , , , Ram, and . This integration emphasized sustainability and expanded digital tools. As of 2025, Mopar announced a $41 million in a new parts in Georgia to improve availability and reduce delivery times in .

Products and Services

Original Equipment Manufacturer Parts

Mopar's (OEM) parts form the backbone of its offerings, providing replacement components engineered specifically for vehicles to ensure optimal , , and longevity. These parts are produced to meet or exceed the original factory specifications, maintaining integrity during routine maintenance and repairs. Unlike aftermarket alternatives, Mopar OEM parts are backed by comprehensive warranties and are essential for preserving manufacturer warranties on , , , Ram, and models. The range of Mopar OEM parts encompasses critical systems such as engines, transmissions, , and electronics, tailored for vehicles spanning from classics to contemporary 2025 models. For instance, engine components include cylinders, pistons, and valvetrains designed for precise integration in iconic powerplants like the Hemi V8, while transmission parts cover gears, clutches, and housings for automatic and manual setups across and . Brake systems feature rotors, pads, and calipers optimized for Jeep's off-road demands, and electronics include sensors, wiring harnesses, and control modules that support advanced features in modern sedans. Restoration parts extend compatibility to vintage models, allowing owners of pre-1980 vehicles to source authentic components for historical accuracy. Mopar OEM parts adhere to rigorous manufacturing standards, including certification for automotive , which ensures consistent production processes and defect prevention. These parts are manufactured in facilities across the and , such as those in , Georgia, and , where advanced assembly lines incorporate quality controls aligned with ISO 14001 environmental standards. This certification framework guarantees that components meet ' exacting tolerances, promoting reliability in high-stress applications like Ram heavy-duty transmissions. Mopar's sourcing model supports an extensive inventory exceeding 300,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs), covering everything from basic filters to complex assemblies. To promote , the company introduced remanufactured options around 2015 through its Mopar Reman program, which refurbishes used parts to like-new condition using OEM processes, reducing waste—for example, repurposing over 6,500 tons of materials as of —and offering cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality. These remanufactured parts, now under the SUSTAINera initiative, include engines and transmissions tested to original specifications for select and applications. In November 2024, SUSTAINera expanded in with 35 product lines, including air suspension compressors and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle () battery packs. The distribution network for Mopar OEM parts includes over 20 centers in , enabling efficient supply to dealers and customers. Facilities in locations like , and , handle high-volume shipments, with many orders fulfilled for same-day or next-day delivery to support timely repairs. This infrastructure ensures ready availability of common parts, minimizing downtime for owners of or Ram pickups.

Accessories and Performance Components

Mopar provides a variety of aftermarket accessory lines designed to enhance vehicle aesthetics and functionality, including wheels, roof racks, and interior trims specifically engineered for compatibility with models like the 2025 and Ram 1500. These accessories allow owners to customize their vehicles for off-road adventures or daily use, with roof racks supporting cargo carriers and interior trims offering upgraded materials for comfort. In 2025, Mopar expanded its portfolio to include over 1,000 affiliated accessories from trusted suppliers, broadening options for across its lineup. Under the Mopar Performance brand, the company offers components such as , exhaust systems, and ECU tunes to boost engine power while maintaining legality. For instance, kits for HEMI engines provide significant power gains, and cat-back exhaust systems improve flow and sound without compromising standards. These parts are developed with a focus on environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with applicable emissions regulations through programs like Direct Connection, which has emphasized modifications since its early catalogs. Customization kits represent factory-backed upgrade packages that integrate seamlessly with original equipment, such as the Scat Pack Stage 2 kit for the 2024 , which adds up to 80 horsepower through combined , exhaust, and enhancements. These kits are tested for reliability and performance, enabling owners to achieve higher output levels without voiding vehicle integrity. Select Mopar parts and accessories come with a lifetime limited when installed by authorized dealers, covering defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser, with parts replacement honored indefinitely after an initial 24-month period that includes labor. This coverage applies to a range of components, ensuring long-term peace of mind for enhancements.

Customer Service and Distribution

Mopar's customer service infrastructure emphasizes comprehensive support for vehicle owners through integrated programs that leverage digital connectivity and traditional assistance. The Remote Diagnostic Assistant (RDA) provides phone-based troubleshooting, where specialists guide owners through basic vehicle issues or schedule dealership service for more complex needs, enhancing accessibility for routine maintenance. Complementing this, Mopar's program offers towing to the nearest dealer, flat tire changes, lockout services, and fuel delivery, available to eligible , , , Ram, and owners. In July 2025, introduced simplified connected services under two tiers—Connect ONE (free for 10 years, including vehicle health reports, remote lock/unlock, and EV charging controls) and Connect Wi-Fi PLUS (subscription-based, adding hotspots and advanced remote features)—which incorporate diagnostic capabilities via over-the-air updates and alerts, with specific support for electric vehicles to monitor battery health and optimize charging. The dealer network forms the backbone of Mopar's service delivery, with over 2,600 locations across the staffed by Mopar-certified technicians trained through the Career Automotive Program (CAP). This initiative partners with more than 100 educational institutions to provide hands-on training in vehicle systems, ensuring technicians are equipped for both internal combustion and electric models; graduates enter the workforce as certified professionals, supporting efficient repairs at dealerships. Mopar conducts ongoing technical training at 30 nationwide centers to keep technicians updated on evolving technologies, contributing to a skilled labor pool that handles millions of service visits annually. Distribution logistics have seen strategic expansions to streamline parts availability, particularly in high-demand regions. In August 2025, Stellantis announced a $41 million in a new 422,000-square-foot in , approximately 60 miles south of , featuring automated storage and retrieval systems to reduce times for dealers in the Southeast . This facility, expected to become operational in late 2026 or early 2027, will create about 90 jobs and enhance regional capacity by processing thousands of parts orders daily, building on Mopar's network of existing distribution centers to support faster nationwide and global supply chains. Complementing physical , the Mopar eStore on Mopar.com serves as a hub, allowing direct online ordering of genuine parts and accessories with features like a 3D customizer for previews, upgraded in recent years to improve and for owners worldwide.

Enthusiast Culture and Customization

Custom Vehicles and Modifications

The tradition of customizing Mopar vehicles dates back to the and 1970s, when enthusiasts frequently modified iconic models such as the with its Hemi engine and the to enhance performance and aesthetics. Engine swaps were a hallmark technique, often involving the installation of larger V8 engines like the 426 Hemi into compact A-body platforms such as the or , which required widening the engine bay for fitment as detailed in contemporary guides. Body kits, including custom fiberglass panels and spoilers, became popular for streamlining airflow and adding aggressive styling to E-body cars like the 1970 Plymouth Cuda, transforming stock muscle cars into high-performance customs. In the 2020s, restomods have evolved to incorporate electric powertrains while retaining classic Mopar aesthetics, exemplified by Mopar's 2024 SEMA concept of a 1967 Electromod. This build features a custom e-Crate battery-electric propulsion system with four packs totaling 73 kWh, delivering 335 horsepower through a single rear-wheel-drive motor, paired with modern Mopar suspension and braking components for improved handling. Adaptations of the 2024 , Mopar's first all-electric , include aftermarket widebody kits that widen the stance for better tire clearance and visual impact, often combined with official Mopar exterior accessories. Popular modification trends among Mopar owners emphasize aerodynamic and handling enhancements, such as widebody kits that flare the fenders to accommodate larger wheels and suspension lowers that reduce by 1-2 inches for a more planted stance. These upgrades are prominently showcased at annual events like the SEMA Show, where Mopar concepts routinely demonstrate lowered suspensions and custom bodywork to highlight performance potential. Ensuring street legality is paramount for Mopar modifications, with guidelines requiring compliance with emissions standards, particularly in states like . Since 2010, the (CARB) has enforced stricter Executive Order (EO) exemptions for aftermarket parts, mandating that components like air intakes, exhaust systems, and swaps carry a CARB EO number to be considered highway-legal in CARB-adopting states such as New York and . Mopar's performance catalogs explicitly note CARB-compliant parts, advising owners to verify EO status and avoid tuning that exceeds specifications to maintain compliance during inspections.

Community Events and Heritage Preservation

The Mopar enthusiast community thrives through organized events that bring together owners, restorers, and fans to celebrate , , , Ram, and related brands. One of the premier gatherings is the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals, held annually in , which draws nearly 55,000 attendees and features a record-breaking 3,201 registered vehicles as of 2025, showcasing everything from vintage muscle cars to modern interpretations. This event, which began in , emphasizes community bonding via judged competitions, vendor displays, and seminars on and history, fostering a sense of shared passion among participants. Local and regional clubs form the backbone of the Mopar community, with organizations like the Mopar Muscle Club of boasting over 200 members who engage in parts sharing, collaborative restoration projects, monthly cruises, and participation in car shows. These groups, spanning the , promote technical knowledge exchange and social events, helping preserve the mechanical and cultural legacy of Mopar vehicles through hands-on activities and mutual support. Similar clubs, such as the Midwest Mopars Car Club, offer membership benefits including discounts on parts and access to exclusive gatherings, further strengthening the network of dedicated enthusiasts. Preservation efforts are bolstered by Mopar's official initiatives, including the launch of a dedicated restoration parts web portal in recent years, which provides access to over 9,000 authentic components from more than 45 licensed suppliers to support the revival of classic models. In 2018, FCA Heritage introduced the "Reloaded by Creators" program, focusing on scouting, restoring, and certifying historic Italian-brand vehicles using original materials in Europe, with proceeds funding further archival and museum displays to ensure long-term safeguarding of the broader FCA automotive heritage. These programs enable restorations that maintain historical accuracy while making classics roadworthy again. Mopar's cultural footprint extends to popular media, where its vehicles have been prominently featured, influencing enthusiast culture and public perception. Since the 2001 release of The Fast and the Furious, the franchise has showcased iconic Mopar models like the 1970 R/T as protagonist Dominic Toretto's signature ride, alongside later appearances of and Chargers in subsequent films, amplifying the brand's allure in high-octane storytelling. This exposure has inspired countless custom builds and reinforced Mopar's status as a symbol of American legacy.

Motorsports Involvement

Sponsorship Programs

Mopar's sponsorship programs emphasize strategic partnerships in motorsports to showcase the and of its original parts, while integrating branding across , Ram, and vehicles. These initiatives build on the brand's historical roots, which trace back to the mid-20th century support for Chrysler-powered race cars. In , Mopar backed teams in the Cup Series from 2001 to 2012, providing technical support and parts during a period that saw 55 victories for the manufacturer. After a 13-year absence, the Ram brand announced its return to competition in June 2025, committing to a full-season entry in the Craftsman Truck Series starting in 2026 with . This move aligns with ' broader strategy to leverage for truck segment promotion. Mopar's involvement in NHRA drag racing dates to the 1990s, with early backing of teams using and Challenger models. In recent years, the focus has shifted to nitro classes, highlighted by a multi-year partnership extension with Racing announced in March 2025 for the NHRA Mission Series. This deal supports two SRT Hellcat Funny Cars and a dragster, covering all 21 events in the 2025 season and emphasizing Mopar's high-performance components in nitro-fueled competition. Dodge also holds title sponsorship for key NHRA events, including the 25th annual Dodge NHRA Nationals in October 2025. Globally, Mopar has pursued partnerships beyond North American series to expand its reach. Since 2019, the brand has supported Jeep's participation in off-road rallies, including the annual Rebelle Rally, where Mopar parts are integrated into competing vehicles. In October 2025, Mopar announced a collaboration with Team for the 2026 , supplying original equipment parts and accessories to the hybrid hypercars across international races. This program extends Mopar's parts distribution and service network to over 20 countries, facilitating global motorsports . These sponsorships incorporate marketing elements such as custom wraps with Mopar branding, official apparel lines sold through dealerships, and fan activations at events, which tie performance directly to consumer products and services.

Racing Heritage and Achievements

Mopar's racing heritage began in the 1950s with the introduction of the series, powered by the innovative Hemi , which delivered up to 300 horsepower and revolutionized stock car performance. In 1955, the C-300 model dominated , securing 27 victories in the 45-race Grand National season, including sweeps at key events like the Daytona Speedway opener, establishing the Hemi's reputation for superior power and reliability in high-stakes competition. The 1960s marked Mopar's ascent in NHRA through the Super Stock class, where the 426 Hemi engine set multiple records and showcased engineering prowess. Debuting in 1964, the 426 Hemi-powered vehicles, such as the 330 and , claimed the Stock Eliminator title at the U.S. Nationals, with all-Hemi finalists demonstrating unmatched acceleration and quarter-mile times under 12 seconds. By 1965, modified factory experimental (F/X) cars like the Hemi-Charger and Plymouth Super Commando further solidified Mopar's dominance, requiring over 100 units built for and consistently outpacing rivals in Super Stock events. Building on this momentum, Mopar achieved significant NHRA milestones in the early 1970s with 426 Hemi-equipped Plymouth models, particularly in Super Stock and emerging categories. At the 1970 Winternationals, Plymouth Challengers and similar Hemi-powered entries advanced deep into eliminations, leveraging dual-distributor ignition systems for enhanced performance and contributing to class wins. Hemi and , including Plymouth variants, captured the U.S. Nationals titles in 1968, 1969, and 1970, with drivers like and Buddy Martin piloting them to low-et records and reinforcing the engine's legacy in heads-up . In modern times, Mopar continues to support NHRA efforts through partnerships like Racing, where clinched the 2025 Top Fuel regular season championship. Their dragsters routinely exceed 330 mph, as seen in 2024 events such as the Sonoma Nationals, where three runs surpassed this speed threshold. Technologically, Mopar has advanced carbon-fiber components originally developed for NHRA racing, such as lightweight body panels and aero kits used in Funny Cars and Drag Paks, which by 2025 have been adapted for street-legal applications in concepts like the SIXPACK Charger, featuring carbon-fiber hoods, splitters, and spoilers to enhance aerodynamics and reduce weight without compromising daily drivability.

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