AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Thanks to the U.S Treasury Department's recent decision to provide Chrysler Financial with access to up to $1.5 billion in loans, the lender can now offer zero-percent financing on select Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge models.

The loans are available as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program.

Basically, qualified new vehicle customers can apply for zero-percent financing for up to 60 months on 2008 and 2009 model-year Chrysler Town & Country, 300 and 300C, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander, Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan, Charger, Magnum, Challenger, Ram Pickup and Ram Heavy Duty.

"From both a customer and dealer perspective, it is exciting news that the Treasury Department is providing funding to Chrysler Financial. Now our customers, including those with scores in the 620 range, will be able to apply for affordable loans and our dealers will be more competitive in the marketplace," stated Jim Press, Chrysler vice chairman and president.

"This will provide a great economic stimulus for car buyers across the country. We have customers who want to buy our vehicles, dealers who want to order vehicles and employees who want to build cars," he added. "Now with enhanced financing available in the system we can help our customers get the credit they deserve and help drive America forward."

"Now, with $1.5 billion to loan, more customers can get financed; so it is a good time for them to revisit their Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers," noted Steven Landry, Chrysler's executive vice president of North American sales, marketing and Mopar parts and service.

"Now we have a special bond with the American people and we will do our part by providing the best quality vehicles, with the best fuel economy and now, the best financing," he continued. "It has never been a better time to buy a car or truck from Chrysler."

The automaker is marketing its new financing offer through a multi-media "Driving America" campaign starting next week. It will include broadcast, radio, digital and print publications.

"We appreciate the Treasury Department's support and their commitment to increase the availability of financing for consumers," commented Thomas F. Gilman, vice chairman and chief executive officer for Chrysler Financial. "This funding will provide us with increased capacity to help Chrysler LLC and our dealers make new loans available to qualified consumers and sell more cars and trucks."

"This funding will better position us to withstand the current economic challenges until funding becomes available through more traditional commercial sources," added Gilman