50th anniversary logo for the introduction of the second-generation (Gen II) 426 Race Hemi engine.

AUBURN HILLS, MI- Mopar will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic second-generation 426 Race Hemi engine throughout 2014, according to Chrysler Group LLC.

The Auburn Hills-based automaker Thursday announced a new lineup of clothing and merchandise featuring a 50th anniversary logo for the "Gen II" engine, which originally debuted for racing in 1964.

The 50th anniversary logo, which Chrysler released today, incorporates an elephant in reference to the engine’s moniker, which resulted from the powerplant’s imposing size, strength and power. The logo also features the trademark Hemi-orange color that covered the original engine.

"Mopar is proud to mark the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Gen II 426 HEMI, a revolutionary engine that inspired a long line of quality products in our brand's portfolio," said Pietro Gorlier, Mopar president and CEO, in a statement. "The 426 HEMI is such a vital part of our heritage and a key ingredient in helping make Mopar what it is today."

Fiftieth anniversary merchandise will be launched throughout January at Mopar.com. Merchandise includes clothing, decorative lighting, clocks, a pub table, stools, and more.

Chrysler said numerous marketing initiatives and events surrounding the 50th anniversary, designed to “encourage Mopar fans to partake in the celebrations nationwide, are also planned for 2014 and will be announced shortly.”

A rendering of part of Chryslerâs "Mopar Garage" for the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The anniversary announcement from Mopar – Chrysler's parts and service division – is part of a number of announcements from Chrysler before the 2014 North American International Auto Show next week in Detroit.

At this year's show, Mopar is featuring

its largest exhibit ever, a 5,500-square-foot display featuring a new Mopar "Custom Shop."

The shop, part of its "Mopar Garage," will allow Detroit auto show attendees to use pre-programmed iPad tablets to experiment with what their favorite Chrysler vehicle may look like with Mopar parts and accessories.

The Detroit auto show will be open to the public from Jan. 18-26 at Cobo Center, following Press Preview Jan. 13-14; Industry Preview Jan. 15-16; and the Charity Preview Jan. 17.

Automakers are expected to unveil more than 50 vehicles during the two-day Press Preview to start the 2014 NAIAS.

Tickets to the 2014 public show days are $7 for senior citizens and children between 7-12 years old; $13 for adults; and free for children 6 and under.

Click here for the most recent news from the 2014 NAIAS.

Michael Wayland covers the automotive industry for MLive. Email him at MWayland@mlive.com & follow him on Twitter @MikeWayland or Google+.