Chrysler to Offer Air Bags on Its Minivans in Early ’91

Chrysler Corp. said Monday that it would start equipping its minivans with optional driver-side air bags in February, becoming the first U.S. auto maker to offer the safety devices on the popular vehicles.

For customers who don’t want them, Chrysler will refund $500.

From Feb. 1 to March 31, Chrysler will offer minivans with driver-side air bags. Chrysler spokesman Tom Jakobowski said it hasn’t been announced what will be done after that.

Chrysler could make the devices standard equipment, keep them as options or discontinue their availability.

Meanwhile, the company began an incentive program Monday with a $500 cash rebate offer for buyers of 1991 model Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager series minivans through the end of January.

Through Dec. 10 of this year, Chrysler’s minivan sales have dropped 4% from last year, to 346,944. Chrysler holds 43% of the minivan market.

Chrysler made driver-side air bags standard equipment starting with its 1990 cars. General Motors Corp. makes them standard on about 15 car lines, while Ford Motor Co. puts driver-side air bags on its major lines, or about 1 million cars.

The federal government, which requires automatic seat belts or air bags in cars being made today, will require passive restraint systems in light trucks by the 1995 model year. Minivans fall under that category.