Chrysler acquires Collier County test track from Harley-Davidson for $7m
The six-mile facility in Florida, previously used by Ford and Harley-Davidson, will support Chrysler’s year-round vehicle testing after four years of inactivity.
Chrysler has purchased the Collier County test track in eastern Florida from Harley-Davidson for $7 million, securing a six-mile proving ground to expand its vehicle testing operations. The acquisition revives a facility that had been silent since Harley-Davidson consolidated its hot-weather testing in Arizona four years earlier. The track, which stretches six miles and sits on the edge of the Everglades, is expected to play a key role in Chrysler’s ongoing vehicle development efforts.
Chrysler Acquires Collier County Test Track from Harley-Davidson
A Facility with a Varied History
The Collier County test track has a history of changing ownership among major automotive companies. Originally, Ford used the site for its own vehicle testing before Harley-Davidson acquired it from Collier Enterprises in 2002 for $6.5 million. After purchasing the track, Harley-Davidson allowed Ford to lease the facility and continue its testing activities for a period. In 2009, Harley-Davidson decided to move its hot-weather testing operations to Kingman, Arizona, leaving the Florida track unused. By 2011, Harley-Davidson had listed the property for sale at $7.5 million, but it remained unsold until Chrysler’s recent acquisition.
The facility’s road surfaces and subtropical climate make it especially valuable for year-round vehicle development and handling tests. The track’s length and location allow manufacturers to simulate a wide range of real-world driving conditions. Chrysler spokesman Michael Palese highlighted that the track’s conditions are ideal for weather-season testing, enabling the company to conduct a variety of handling and durability assessments regardless of the time of year.
Interest Beyond the Major Automakers
The track’s appeal extended beyond the automotive industry’s largest players. In 2011, Corvettes of Naples, a local enthusiast club, explored the possibility of leasing the facility for autocross events. The club’s president, Glenn Hutchinson, considered the site ideal for high-speed driving events, particularly when compared to other Florida venues such as Sebring International Raceway, which presented significantly higher costs and logistical requirements. Despite this interest, the track remained in Harley-Davidson’s hands until the Chrysler purchase was finalised.
The Collier County track’s six-mile length and varied surfaces continue to make it attractive for a range of vehicle development needs. Its proximity to the Everglades provides unique environmental conditions that are difficult to replicate elsewhere, offering manufacturers a valuable testing environment for both hot-weather and wet-surface scenarios.
Why Chrysler Wanted the Track
Securing the Collier County facility gives Chrysler a dedicated site for hot-weather and handling tests, reducing reliance on third-party tracks and potentially speeding up development cycles. The ability to conduct testing throughout the year is especially valuable for pre-production validation and durability work, given Florida’s challenging climate. Chrysler’s acquisition signals a continued investment in its engineering and testing capabilities within the United States.
The purchase fits into a broader industry trend where manufacturers seek greater control over their development environments, particularly for extreme weather and durability testing. By owning the track, Chrysler can tailor its testing programmes and schedules to suit its specific needs, which could lead to more efficient vehicle development and a faster route to market for new models.
Future Prospects for the Collier County Track
Chrysler’s use of the Collier County track is expected to focus on handling and weather testing for its own vehicles. There are no announced plans to open the facility to outside users or to host public or motorsport events. The company’s investment in the track reflects a commitment to improving the quality and reliability of its vehicles through rigorous, year-round testing in demanding conditions.
The revival of the Collier County test track after several years of inactivity marks a significant development for Chrysler and the region. As the company integrates the facility into its testing operations, the track’s unique features and strategic location are set to play an important role in future vehicle development programmes.
