The impending extinction of the Dodge Viper this month might be a source of sadness for some, but few are likely as heartbroken as Ralph Gilles, the head of design at Fiat Chrysler. Gilles played a significant role in bringing the Viper back to life over six years ago while serving as president and CEO of SRT. Originally discontinued in the summer of 2010, the Viper made a triumphant return at the 2012 New York Auto Show as a new fifth-generation model. Unfortunately, sales didn’t meet expectations, prompting FCA to decrease both the vehicle’s price and production numbers during its run. There was even a period when the assembly line was halted for two months. The final nail in the Viper’s coffin was the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s new requirement for side-curtain airbags in all new vehicles, a feature that couldn’t be integrated into the Viper’s slender design.
In a poignant farewell, Gilles shared an Instagram slideshow highlighting what is likely his last visit to the Dodge Viper assembly line at FCA’s Connor Avenue plant. The images show Gilles beside the final fifth-generation Vipers, taking selfies with employees, and even capturing a somber moment in front of the factory sign that proudly declares it the “Home of Viper.”
In the comments section, Gilles revealed to one Instagram follower that the red Viper featured in the pictures would be retained by Dodge as part of its heritage collection, while the yellow-and-black vehicle is destined for one of his friends.
In memory of the Viper, we at The Drive invite readers to share their best Kenny Loggins jokes related to the second-to-last picture in the slideshow as a way to celebrate its legacy.
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