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AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Chrysler revealed another development Thursday the automaker believes further makes the days of a bulky owner's manual in a vehicle glove box a thing of the past.

The manufacturer rolled out what it contends is the industry's first smartphone vehicle-information application. The first app is connected with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The initial one available is for the iPhone, but the company said versions for BlackBerry and Android devices on major mobile carriers are to be made available soon.

Furthermore, the automaker highlighted the application — which is free to the consumer — will eventually phase into future Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles in the United States by the end of this year.

Executives explained new Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram Truck smartphone vehicle-information apps can complement existing user guides and DVDs that are currently provided with each unit. They noted each app can allow the consumer to browse functional categories and view detailed topics of interest relative to their specific vehicle.

Among the feature categories contained with the application are product information, vehicle operating instructions, vehicle maintenance schedules, service contract details, warning lights and controls, warranty information and customer aid such as 24-hour roadside assistance.

Chrysler also indicated some other features and benefits of the application include links to Mopar parts and accessories, product brand gear and merchandise and social media sites. The app also has high-resolution product information images and videos.

"With our vehicle-information app, we are taking customer care to a new level by creating a convenient, on-demand channel of communication with our customers," insisted Pietro Gorlier, president and chief executive officer of Chrysler's Mopar Division.

"Creating this new channel of communication will enhance the customer experience. And it's a great example of how we can add value to our vehicles and build brand identity," Gorlier continued.

"This new app will also be a source for potential customers to learn about our vehicles," he added.

The automaker mentioned the app was developed by Michigan-based Tweddle Group.

"Tweddle is pleased to extend our long-time relationship with Chrysler Group by enhancing the consumer relationship with their vehicles through mobile applications," stated Andrew Tweddle, Tweddle Group president and CEO.

"This app will provide Chrysler Group's customers with a dynamic tool that will enable them to get the most out of the features and capabilities offered in their new vehicles," Tweddle went on to say.

Chrysler reiterated that this vehicle-information application is the next installment of technology-based advancements the company has made.

Last year, the company replaced owner manuals with DVDs and user guides. Executives also pointed out that Mopar technology can make a vehicle a wireless hot spot. Mopar also has rolled out wiTECH to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates as well as FLO TV, live, mobile television.