Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli has announced the models set to bring the embattled US carmaker back from the brink as well as an idea of the alliance-based models set to emerge.
By Gareth Dean
In a letter sent to Chrysler employees late last week, CEO Bob Nardelli revealed that the next couple of years will see the addition of revised versions of the 300C, Durango SUV, and Charger saloon, amongst others, as part of the company’s renaissance.
The exterior styling of the new 300C is unlikely to deviate much from that of the current car, but extra attention will be paid to the quality of cabin materials and broadening the car’s audience, possibly by adding a diesel powerplant to the range. This move has been echoed by Chrysler’s new design boss, Ralph Gilles, who stated that the next 300C will feature “evolutionary styling” as well as “a quantum leap in quality.” Expect to see this model towards the end of next year.
Brand new versions of both the Dodge Durango SUV and Charger saloon will also emerge in the next couple of years as part of Chrysler’s new product offensive. This will also see in the addition of 24 new or updated models over the next 2 years, a confirmed brand new Jeep model, the next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee, and a range of all-electric vehicles.
Nardelli also clarified arrangements pertaining to Chrysler’s alliance with Fiat.
In the letter Nardelli stated, “It is important to note that no U.S. taxpayer funds would go to Fiat the alliance is based on an exchange of equity for assets. Fiat would acquire an equity stake in Chrysler by giving us access to substantially all its vehicle platforms and technologies.
“This access is of high value to Chrysler, saving us significant costs and years of development time.
“Throughout this process we will work with the U.S. government to ensure Chrysler meets all terms of the U.S. Treasury loan agreement, including the submission of a restructuring plan that assures Chrysler’s long-term viability, timely loan repayment and energy efficiency”, it read.
The new alliance will reportedly see seven new vehicles introduced Stateside. Production will take place at a number of Chrysler’s idle plants and the new models will be marketed through a network of select Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealerships.
There will be vehicles based on four Fiat platforms, with models planned for the supermini segment right though to the compact segment.
Chrysler will create a Dodge-badged minicar based on Fiat’s Panda platform, a light car and crossover based on the Fiat Grande Punto platform, and a compact car which will utilise the next-generation Alfa Romeo 147’s “C-evo” platform. The lattermost could be used as a potential replacement for the slow-selling Sebring and Avenger modes.
As part of the alliance, Chysler could also gain access to a number of Fiat Group powerplants. Fiat’s 1,4 and 1,8-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol engines are up for consideration, but its diesels are unlikely to emerge anytime soon due to the relatively high-expense of getting the engines to meet stricter U.S. emissions standards. In addition, Chrysler’s upcoming Phoenix V6 engine could be lent to Fiat for any of larger future models.
In essence, the aforementioned moves make sense. Chrysler needs smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles – the sort at which Fiat excels. Similarly, Fiat now has the means to market its products in the US, where many have voiced their desire for such products.
On a local note, Chrysler South Africa has appointed Trent Barcroft as its new Managing Director. Barcroft is no stranger to our shores, having worked for the then DaimlerChrysler South Africa between 1999 and 2005 helping to set up dealer network infrastructure.
He has returned to South Africa from a term in the Middle East with Chrysler in Dubai, where he has overseen operations that have seen the manufacturer undergo a remarkable 125 percent growth in that market – a success he hopes to emulate over here.
“Chrysler SA’s commitment to the market proves we are here to stay. We are making an investment not only in monetary terms but in talent too with a great team to support our sales and service efforts. It is this investment that will ensure Chrysler is well positioned to take advantage of the future market recovery”, said Trent.
