North York Chrysler Jeep Dodge FIAT

Published on Thursday February 02, 2012

2011 was a big year for Chrysler that saw the company repay US$7.6 billion in loans, $1.7 billion of which was paid to the Canadian Federal Government

Chrysler Group LLC today reported preliminary net income of $183 million for the full year 2011, up from a net loss of $652 million a year ago, exceeding the objective set in November 2009. The smallest of the Big Three automakers reported sales of 1,369,114 vehicles in 2011, up 26 per cent from 2010. Chrysler led all automakers in percentage sales gains last year.

The Company's full year net income included a $551 million loss on extinguishment of debt recognized in the second quarter of 2011, when the Company repaid its outstanding obligations to the U.S. Treasury and Canadian governments in full, with interest, six years early. Excluding the charge, Adjusted Net Income(a) for the full year 2011 was $734 million, exceeding the Company's 2011 guidance and further delivering on the goals established two years ago.

For the fourth quarter, net income was $225 million, up from a loss of $199 million a year earlier, as the Company continues to increase sales of its successful new and significantly refreshed vehicles.

As of January 2012, Chrysler Group has achieved all three performance events set forth in its Amended and Restated LLC Operating Agreement. As a result of achieving these events, and in combination with other transactions, Fiat S.p.A. now owns 58.5 percent of the membership interests in Chrysler Group.

"The house is in good order. We are proud of the work we've done," said Sergio Marchionne, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chrysler Group LLC. "Now we greet a new year of high expectations with our heads down, forging ahead and focused on executing the goals we've set for ourselves as a company."

News Source [Chrysler LLC]

Published on Monday January 30, 2012

Just 18 months following the start of production as the standard engine for the 2010 Jeep® Grand Cherokee, the one millionth Pentastar V-6 engine was assembled today at the Chrysler Group's Trenton (Mich.) Engine Assembly Plant.

"The Pentastar engine is a cornerstone of Chrysler Group's effort to reinvent its business model with world class quality products. This award-winning engine is proof that the Company is transforming its products to meet the needs of our customers," said Brian Harlow, Vice President, Head of Powertrain Manufacturing, Chrysler Group LLC. "To build one million of anything, and in an impressively short amount of time, is a significant achievement. But to do it with such a high degree of quality is a testament to our skilled and dedicated workforce at both Trenton South and Saltillo engine plants."

The 60-degree, V-6 engine, the most advanced six-cylinder ever produced by Chrysler, is now available in 11 vehicles across the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep® lineup and available in front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive configurations. Depending on the vehicle, engines are tuned for specific applications with horsepower ranging from 283 on front-wheel-drive models and up to 305 horsepower on the sporty Dodge Challenger. The all-aluminum engine is standard or available on the Chrysler, 200, 300 and Town and Country; Dodge Avenger, Challenger, Charger, Durango, Journey and Caravan.

For 2012, the 3.6-liter engine also is standard with Jeep® Wrangler and provides 285 horsepower ? an increase of 40 percent over last year's model. Torque is up 10 percent to 260 lb. ft. and highway fuel efficiency is improved to 21 miles per gallon (mpg) on the 2012 model.

Engineered to meet a variety of requirements, the Pentastar V-6 engine also is the exclusive engine used with the new eight-speed automatic transmission on the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 models. The new engine and transmission combination deliver 31 mpg on the highway.

Just recently, the Pentastar V-6 repeated as one of the "10 Best Engines" following evaluation and testing by editors of Ward's Automotive magazine.

Despite the impressive gains in power, the engine is designed to run on regular 87 octane gasoline. It also is capable of running on alternate fuels including E85.

Designed for the future
Since its introduction, the new engine has replaced six legacy V-6 engines ranging from 2.7-liter up to 4.0-liters in the Chrysler Group LLC product portfolio. Overall, the new Pentastar has enabled Chrysler's Powertrain organization to reduce major engine components from 189 parts to just 32, greatly simplifying the build process and improving quality.

Some parts, including exhaust manifolds, have completely disappeared by virtue of being cast directly into the cylinder head. Previously, 32 different exhaust manifolds were used on a variety of V-6 engines. Upper- and lower- intake assemblies, which accounted for 21 and 11 different part numbers (respectively), have been reduced to two upper and two lower assemblies.

Camshaft variations have dropped from 14 to four and just two fuel-rail assemblies are now required rather than the previous 14.

Weight reductions are equally impressive. Fully dressed, the new Pentastar V-6 is 94 pounds lighter than the 3.7-liter engine it replaced on the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Similarly, while larger in displacement, the Pentastar is 42 pounds lighter than the 3.5-liter it replaced in the Chrysler 300.

The engine also is extremely efficient with advanced emission technology.

The V-6 requires no Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) which helps reduce the mass and complexity of the engine. The engine meets Federal Tier 2 BIN 5 emission requirements and Ultra-low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) standards, and was designed to meet all known future worldwide standards including LEV III and PZEV Californian standards. For export, the engine is capable of meeting Euro6 emission standards.

In addition to Trenton South, the Pentastar V-6 also is produced in Saltillo, Mexico.

More than 1,300 workers are employed at the two engine assembly plants with two shifts at each location. The Trenton Engine Plant, one of Chrysler group's most modern plants, was the first engine manufacturing facility to receive the U.S. Green Building Council LEED Gold Certificate for environmental excellence in building design.

NewsSource: [Chrysler]

Published on January 27, 2012

Ram Truck will expand its model lineup by adding the new, top-of-the-line Ram Laramie Limited.

"The Ram Truck brand's greatest strengths are our commitment to listen to customers and to understand what motivates them," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO, Ram Truck Brand ? Chrysler Group LLC. "We've successfully added Ram truck models designed for outdoorsmen, tradesmen, first-time buyers and ranchers. Laramie Limited is designed to meet the high expectations of affluent pickup truck buyers looking to combine capability with elegance."

Featuring premium materials, such as full-leather seating, piano-black interior components and under-stated exterior badging, Ram Laramie Limited offers a refined luxury alternative to the popular southwestern-themed Ram Laramie Longhorn edition pickup.

"The launch of the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition gave us a boost in the ultra-premium pickup segment and exceeded our expectations," added Diaz. "Ram Laramie Limited offers customers an even wider selection of luxury models. We expect a lot of interest in the Laramie Limited.

"The Ram Laramie Limited customer is going to be involved in some sort of motor-sport activity. Whether they're towing a ski boat, a race-car hauler, motorcycles or snowmobiles, they're looking for comfort and class and an expressive way to carry their crew and their gear."

The new Ram will make its debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, which opens to the media on Wed., Feb. 8.

Exterior
Ram Laramie Limited gets a body-color front fascia with fog lamps and a matching, painted rear bumper. (Ram Laramie Limited 2500 and 3500 models in white and silver exterior colors get chrome front and rear bumpers.) The Laramie Limited's chrome grille surrounds billet inserts that are featured on Ram Sport models. Understated chrome accents include body-side molding, mirrors, door handles and tubular side steps.

The Laramie Limited's body side has a clean, "street truck" look and eliminates the traditional HEMI®, Cummins and Ram model line badges.

Tailgate badging includes the chrome Ram's Head logo and a small italicized block-letter "Limited."

Ram 1500 Laramie Limited shares 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with the Ram Laramie Longhorn. Polished surfaces are accented with painted silver pockets. Heavy Duty models feature 17-inch fully polished aluminum wheels. Wheel centers are embossed with the Ram brand name.

The Ram 1500 Laramie Limited is available in six exterior color choices, including: black, bright silver metallic, bright white, deep cherry red pearl, mineral gray metallic and true blue. Ram Heavy Duty models are available in black, bright silver metallic, bright white and mineral gray metallic.

Interior
The 2012 Ram Laramie Limited Edition features a modern, luxurious interior.

A full-leather cockpit with dark slate Natura Plus leather seats and engraved details lend the Ram Laramie Limited an unmatched level of sophistication and style.

Contrasting medium graystone leather piping provides seat-edge emphasis. Additional accents are created along either side of the piping by medium graystone deck-seam stitching.

The Ram Laramie Limited's cavernous double-stacked center console is topped with a soft, double French-stitched full-leather lid.

In addition to 100 percent leather seat coverings, Ram Laramie Limited gets a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter -- console mounted on 1500, column mounted on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models. Accent medium graystone X-stitch detailing sets off both the steering wheel and shifter.

Door trim front and rear also is wrapped in premium leather. Leather armrest uppers are further accented with the same dual French stitch used on the center console lid and instrument panel.

Ram Laramie Limited editions receive remote LED lighting at the inside door handles and a full-length light that illuminates the truck's multi-function lower map pockets, front and rear.

The dash features a center stack trimmed in high-gloss piano-black. Liquid graphite side bezels and bright chrome vent rings complete the center stack's detailing. Piano-black finishes also are used in the door panels and are trimmed in bright chrome.

Ram Laramie Limited's gauge cluster is accented with pad-print chrome rings that share the high-end appearance of a gentleman's watch and include the imprinted message: "Designed in Detroit." Gauge needles are finished in liquid graphite.

A liquid graphite glovebox spear with pinstriped details and black and chrome "Limited" badge complete the dash.

Beneath the dash is soft foot-well lighting, providing both a functional and aesthetic interior enhancement.

Passengers also enjoy solid dark slate premium berber carpet floor mats with medium graystone accent stitching. Rear flap-closure seatback map pockets with modern chrome Ram-lettered detailed metal buckles also are unique to Ram Laramie Limited. For entry and exit, brushed-silver Ram-branded door sill plates resist scuffs and add visual appeal.

Other Features
Ram Laramie Limited also is equipped with a navigational radio, remote start, back-up camera, power adjustable pedals with memory, heated steering wheel, front ventilated and heated seats and rear heated seats.

Ram Laramie Limited will be available in 1500 (1/2-ton), 2500 HD (3/4-ton) and 3500 HD single- and dual-rear-wheel (1-ton); Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models.

Laramie Limited will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, Tradesman, Tradesman HD, Express, SLT, Outdoorsman, Mossy Oak edition, Sport, R/T, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Power Wagon (2500 only).

Laramie Limited will be available at North York Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat in 2012.

Published on January 26, 2012

Chrysler has become the first manufacture to openly confirm interest in taking on Ford and Holden in the V8 Supercar championship.

But the prospect of a 300C rolling onto the grid in 2013 when the new "Car of the Future" regulations debut is far from confirmed.

Nevertheless, there have been approaches by V8 Supercar teams to the local factory-owned distributor, Chrysler Group Australia, as well as discussions between CGA and the championship organisation itself.
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CGA, in turn, has kept global HQ in the USA informally updated on developments.

"I am extremely interested (in V8Supercars)," SRT Brand and Motorsports president and CEO Ralph Gilles told drive exclusively in Detroit last week. "It's not the first time I have heard of it but I don't want to let on that we are committing just yet.

"It's very unique to that market so it may work beautifully in the Australian market, so I am willing to help out if they are wanting to find a way."

For a Chrysler team to make it into the championship, multi-million dollar funding support would have to come from Chrysler's international marketing budget, the SRT (Chrysler's equivalent of HSV and FPV) and Mopar (after-market) divisions as well as CGA.

Running a competitive two-car team in the V8Supercar championship costs up to $10 million per annum. CGA would not simply be able to build a team from scratch as manufacturers are not allowed to own licences. It would have to enter via an existing team.

CGA managing director Clyde Campbell confirmed no formal discussions had taken place with Detroit and SRT on V8 Supercars, but in theory at least he was positive about the concept.

"We are in constant communication with SRT, which is a brand we are trying to build," Campbell said. "Ralph is relatively new to heading up the SRT brand and he is certainly a motorsport fan.

"SRT stands for Street and Race Technology and the race part of that needs to be borne out and it needs to be borne out in a category that fits the brands that we are trying to retail.

"The Car of the Future concept looks like it would suit in that regard. Certainly we haven't closed the door, it's something we are looking at. But at this stage it's so preliminary we can't say whether we are in or out."

Car of the Future, which in theory at least will be cheaper to build than the current V8 racer, is a key plank in V8 Supercars plan to add brands and expand internationally. A round of the championship is scheduled for Austin, Texas, in 2013.

Chrysler has a previous connection with the V8 Supercar championship, supplying the first generation 300C SRT8 as a pace car for four years.

News Source [TheAge]

Published on January 25 2012



Jeep Introduces New Production-intent Concept Grand Cherokee at Houston Auto Show

The Jeep® brand has introduced a new, production-intent concept version of its award-winning Grand Cherokee, a unique model with distinctive yet stealthy exterior cues designed to attract new Jeep Grand Cherokee enthusiasts and customers.

Showing the vehicle publicly for the first time this morning at the Houston Auto Show, Jeep also announced that it has created an online contest for consumers to name the new production-intent Grand Cherokee concept. The person who chooses the winning name will have an opportunity to win a new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

"Highlighted by a unique platinum-chrome front-end appearance and distinctive black-gloss 20-inch wheels and exterior treatments, our new Grand Cherokee concept provides a completely new look ? one that is edgy and aggressive, and certainly different than any Grand Cherokee on the road today," said Mike Manley, President and CEO ? Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Jeep enthusiasts have always appreciated limited-edition models and the ability to customize their vehicles. This new Grand Cherokee comes with a unique, 'factory-customized' stealth appearance directly from Jeep, and is certain to attract interest from an array of potential customers.

"We plan to garner feedback from consumers at the Houston Auto Show, and via our online Jeep 'Name My Ride' contest," Manley added. "If the level of excitement is what we anticipate, this new Grand Cherokee will be in Jeep showrooms this spring."

In the U.S., Grand Cherokee sales increased 51 percent in 2011 vs. 2010. In Texas, sales increased 226 percent. The Jeep Grand Cherokee was named "SUV of Texas" the past two years by the Texas Auto Writers Association.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Production-intent Concept
With the Laredo X package as its starting point, the new production-intent concept Jeep Grand Cherokee combines a variety of exterior design changes to create a unique model with an aggressive, chrome and "blacked-out" look.

The vehicle's grille surround appears in Black, and mesh grille texture in Platinum Chrome. A Platinum Chrome lower fascia applique´ completes the unique front-end appearance. Black headlamp bezels and a Black liftgate light-bar continues the "blacked-out" theme throughout the vehicle's exterior.

The production-intent concept rides on 20-inch tires that surround one-of-a-kind Black-gloss aluminum wheels for Jeep.

Based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo X package, the production-intent concept model includes standard leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a 9-speaker 506 watt amp sound system with subwoofer, iPod/MP3 connectivity, Parkview™ rear back-up camera, ParkSense® rear-park assist system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, Chrysler Group's Uconnect hands-free communications system, and more than 50 advanced safety and security features.

Shown in Houston as a Brilliant Black 4x4 model, a Deep Cherry Red 4x4 version will be on display tomorrow at the Washington (D.C.) Auto Show.

Jeep "Name My Ride" Contest
Also announced at the Houston Auto Show, consumers now have the opportunity to name the Jeep Grand Cherokee concept vehicle, via Jeep.com/namemyride or m.jeep.com/namemyride (mobile site). The Jeep "Name My Ride" contest begins today. The Jeep brand will compile entries and narrow them down to three favored choices. Consumers will then have the opportunity to vote online for the winning name, to be announced in May. The person who submits the chosen, official vehicle name will have a chance to win a new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Customers can visit Jeep.com/namemyride to submit a name for consideration, and for more information and complete contest rules.

2011 Jeep sales highlights
In 2011, Jeep brand sales increased 44 percent in the U.S. ? with each Jeep model up more than 30 percent ? while industry sales rose 11 percent. Globally, Jeep sales increased 41 percent in 2011. December marked the best Jeep sales month since 2007. Jeep Grand Cherokee sales were up 51 percent in 2011 in the U.S., with more than 127,000 units sold.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers premium on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand's legendary four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case and towing capability. It offers improved fuel economy (up to 23 miles per gallon), a driving range of more than 550 miles, superb on-road ride and handling, a world-class interior cabin, more than 50 safety and security features, and a variety of advanced technology features.

Contributing to Grand Cherokee's class-leading capability is the combination of Jeep's Quadra-Lift™ air suspension system and the Jeep Selec-Terrain™ traction control system that lets customers choose the 4x4 setting for the optimum driving experience on all terrains.

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with three 4x4 systems, and with either V-6 or V-8 powertrains. Reserve yours today here at North York Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat

Published on Thursday January 19, 2012

Hoping to garner more sales, the Chrysler Group has announced it will be unveiling a four-door model of its two-door Fiat 500 city car at this year's Geneva auto show, scheduled for March.

Speculation has the new four-door 500 being larger overall than the current model, possibly using the same U.S.-specific platform as a planned Fiat-based replacement for the Jeep Compass/Patriot.

Whatever its size, the new 500 model is expected to go on sale in North America in 2013.

NewsSource [The Star ]

Published on Monday January 16, 2012

Chrysler Group plans to add a large expansion to its current facilities in Saltillo, Mexico, to assemble a Ram-branded version of the Fiat Ducato commercial van for North America.

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Chrysler Group, said this week at the Detroit auto show that the expansion of the Saltillo plant would make it "the center for production of light-commercial vehicles in North America for us."

A Chrysler spokesman would not confirm the size of the investment, but company sources said it was expected to be about $500 million. Chrysler already operates a truck assembly plant, a stamping plant and two engine plants in Saltillo, about 180 miles southwest of Laredo, Texas.

Marchionne said the front-wheel-drive full-sized commercial van shares a platform with the Peugeot Boxer in Europe.

"It's designed perfectly to try and deal with the market segment here in the United States, so we think it will grow," he said.

The Ram brand offers a modified version of the Dodge Grand Caravan, called the Ram C/V, as a commercial cargo van, but it hasn't had a full-sized commercial van since it lost the Sprinter in its breakup with former owner Daimler AG. Last year, Ram sold 691 units of the C/V. Meanwhile, Ford sold 91,305 units of its Econoline van, not including the Club Wagon version, and 31,914 units of the Transit Connect.

The Ducato is scheduled to arrive in North America in 2013, Marchionne said. Its European versions have a 135.8-inch wheelbase, compared with the 138-inch wheelbase of the rear-wheel-drive Ford Econoline commercial van.

Chrysler previously said it would bring the smaller Fiat Doblo to North America as a light-duty commercial van and that it is studying bringing over the larger Fiat Daily as well. The Doblo is similar in size to the Ford Transit Connect.

Fred Diaz, head of both the Ram brand and Chrysler Group's operations in Mexico, said the automaker is looking at some styling changes to Fiat's current commercial van lineup to give them "that punchy Ram look." However, designers don't want to change too much, he said during an interview at the auto show.

"There probably are some styling cues that we're looking at. There's not much," Diaz said. "The van is so beautifully designed, and aerodynamically, it works very well. I think we'll do really well with these vans in the marketplace. I think they will connect and resonate really well with customers."

[News Source] Chrysler LLC

Published on Thursday January 12, 2012


Chrysler Announces Expansion of Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ Audio System to New 2012 Dodge Charger

2012 Dodge Charger to feature Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ audio system
Exclusive integration of Beats by Dr. Dre audio technology delivers the high-definition music experience the way the artist intended
Not just speakers, the Beats™ Audio system in the 2012 Charger was designed by Chrysler Group engineers in collaboration with Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine
Available in the first-quarter of 2012 on select Dodge Charger models

January 6, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - With the world's largest gathering of electronic technophiles in attendance at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Chrysler Group and Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ announced today the next chapter in their bold new partnership that brings the studio quality sound experience of Beats™ Audio technology and places it into an iconic American performance sedan: the new 2012 Dodge Charger.

"Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine have built their careers on revolutionary and forward thinking decisions that formulate trends in music, popular culture and technology," Reid Bigland, President and CEO ? Dodge Brand. "Our goal in partnering with Beats by Dr. Dre is to integrate their recording-studio quality audio experience for our Charger enthusiasts to feel and hear their favorite music as it was intended ? all while heightening the street performance and technology assets of the new 2012 Dodge Charger."

Simultaneously debuting at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, audiophiles will be able to experience firsthand demonstrations of the Beats By Dr. Dre audio system within the Chrysler Group exhibits at both venues.

Beats by Dr. Dre founders Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine worked side-by-side with the engineering team at the Chrysler Group to design and tune the 10-speaker audio system. The resulting audio experience offers the new 2012 Dodge Charger sound that only music experts like Dr. Dre, a legendary producer and artist Iovine, an acclaimed producer and chairman of Interscope Geffen-A&M Records, could achieve.

"Dodge Charger owners are people that are highly emotional about their connection with their favorite music," said Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen-A&M Records and co-founder of Beats by Dr. Dre. "There's nothing more exciting than a high performance car combined with a high performance audio experience ? and the integration with Beats Audio technology into the Charger is the next logical step in our exclusive automotive expansion with Chrysler Group."

Introduced less than a year ago at the 2011 New York International Auto Show, Chrysler Group is the first automaker to integrate the Beats by Dr. Dre audio system in its vehicles. The system currently is standard with the 2012 Chrysler 300S and available as an audio upgrade in additional Chrysler 300 models.

The addition of the Beats by Dr. Dre audio system to the 2012 Dodge Charger lineup emphasizes the partnership and commitment by Chrysler Group and Beats by Dr. Dre to bring the latest technological advancements in sound quality to Chrysler Group's newest models. The Beats Audio system will be standard equipment on the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T Max and included with the Blacktop Package or Rallye Appearance Group on Dodge Charger SXT models. The Beats Audio system is also included with the Sound Group and Wheels and Tunes Group on Dodge Charger R/T models.

High-performance of Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ audio system delivers the sound and feel
State-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch 8.4 provides 2012 Dodge Charger passengers with the segment's largest touchscreen display (8.4-inch) and next-generation mobile connectivity, convenience and multimedia features. In addition to a "Beats by Dr. Dre" start-up screen, the Uconnect Touch also controls the 12-channel amplifier that integrates the heart of the Beats proprietary equalizer algorithm, creating the high-definition sound Beats Audio founders Dr. Dre, and Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records, require in their professional recording studios.

The integration of Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ audio system delivers the mid- to high-range needed for studio-quality sound. Included in the system are:

Three 3.5-inch speakers located in the instrument panel
Two 3.5-inch speakers located in the rear doors
Two 6 x 9-inch front-door woofers provide bass
Two 6 x 9-inch speakers and a center-mounted 8-inch speaker located in the rear-shelf area provide full-range audio
Maximizing how music genres from hip hop to Motown should sound and feel, an 8-inch Beats Audio trunk-mounted dual-voice coil subwoofer with sealed enclosure delivers tight, powerful, punchy bass

The 2012 Dodge Charger models powered by Beats by Dr. Dre audio system will arrive at Dodge dealerships nationwide in the first-quarter of 2012.

About Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger provides the ultimate combination of dramatic Dodge heritage styling, award-winning premium interior, the reassurance of an IIHS Top Safety Pick and full-size spaciousness with the fuel efficiency of a mid-size car.

All-new for 2012 is a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission paired with the award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers an impressive 292 horsepower and a best-in-class 31 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. In fact, that fuel economy not only surpasses any full-size V-6 sedan but any mid-size V-6 sedan, while offering all of the driving dynamics and distinctive style for which Charger is renowned. The new eight-speed transmission delivers an estimated 15 percent increase in fuel economy and 10 percent improvement in acceleration. Also new for 2012 are die-cast paddle shifters, available with the Pentastar V-6 and HEMI® V-8 engines.

The Charger's available legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology and variable valve timing delivers best-in-class power with 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque and a starting price thousands of dollars less than the competition. The 2012 Charger R/T is positioned as the most affordable V-8 sedan in America, with a starting U.S. MSRP of only $29,995.

Charger's all-wheel-drive system is the most advanced in its class, with segment exclusive active transfer case with front-axle disconnect to maximize fuel economy of up to 27 mpg highway while delivering outstanding performance and handling inherent to a rear-wheel drive car.

With its iconic character, contemporary fastback four-door coupe proportions, world-class performance, award-winning interior craftsmanship and refinement and state-of-the-art connectivity features with available Uconnect Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen media center, the new Dodge Charger proudly delivers premium, world-class sedan precision at an incredible value, starting at a U.S. MSRP of only $25,495.

News Source [Chrysler]

Published on Tuesday January 10, 2012

Dodge just pulled the covers off its new compact sedan, the Dart. We're impressed. With an official base price of US$15,995 (Canadian pricing on the way) the Dart (pardon us, please, just this once) seems to be a bullseye to the heart of the small car segment in North America.

We're eager to spend a few minutes behind the wheel of this Italian/American conglomeration, since its specifications appear to put it at the forefront of a hotly contested segment. For starters, there's a very impressive available seven-inch TFT display to replace the standard analog gauges, which is paired with an 8.4-inch touch screen panel at the centre of the dash. The digital cluster is customizable by the driver with two different base display options, along with nine more menu functions.

As far as styling goes, nobody is going to confuse the Dart with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta on which it's based. There's the expected crosshair front grille, though it's smaller and better integrated with the overall flowing design ethos. Such impressions are helped by the massaging done to Fiat's platform; the Dart is stretched in all directions compared to its Alfa-badged sibling.

That enlarged platform means the Dart is rather well-endowed when it comes to interior space with a total of 97.2 cubic feet. Dodge has managed to squeeze in 35.3 inches of rear legroom, which it says is more than the mid-size Hyundai Sonata sedan. Buyers looking to customize their rides will be pleased to see 14 available interior and trim combinations.

Power will come from one of three powerplants, two of which are naturally aspirated ? a 2.0-litre Tigershark inline-four producing 160 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.4-litre Tigershark four with 184 hp and 171 lb-ft. Naturally, our attention is focused on the 1.4-litre turbocharged MultiAir four with 160 horses and 184 lb-ft, which we suspect will be the most fuel efficient engine of the three. Transmissions at launch will all have six speeds: one manual, one automatic and a dual-clutch gearbox with the turbo mill. A nine-speed automatic is in the works for 2013.

For more information click here
News Source [Chrysler]

Published on Friday January 06, 2012


The Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel powered into the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, but only for Europe and other non-U.S. markets.

The 241 horsepower, 406 pound-foot V-6 turbodiesel it featured was a tantalizing prospect, and now, finally, the U.S. will get its taste of the torquey and fuel efficient Jeep oil-burner.

Chrysler, Jeep's parent company, announced this week that it is hiring 1,100 new staff at its Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit to help expand the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup to include a diesel version for the U.S. market.

Unfortunately, there's been no mention of which engine will appear in the U.S.-spec Grand Cherokee Diesel. The most likely option would be to simply carry over the V-6 unit offered overseas.

When mated to a five-speed automatic and delivering its peak of 406 horsepower, this 3.0-liter turbodiesel in the Grand Cherokee returns about 28.4 mpg on the slightly less conservative European combined cycle and is good for 0-60 mph acceleration of around 8 seconds.

A less powerful version of this engine rated at 190 horsepower and 324 pound-feet of torque is also offered overseas, though it doesn't provide any fuel efficiency gains.

Having driven and enjoyed the previous-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.0 CRD engine, we're looking forward to the improvements in the new 2013 Grand Cherokee Diesel. A trail-rated, tow-ready, fuel economy powerhouse of an SUV? Sounds like a good formula to us.

News Source [Motor Authority]

Mopar® Introduces Dodge Charger Redline Infused With New High Output 426 HEMI® Aluminum Crate Engine and More Aggressive Style

• New 2012 Dodge Charger Redline features three available Mopar® stage kits for factory-tuned performance
  
  
• Stage One features aerodynamic exterior components and interior accents
  
  
• Stage Two features bolt-on performance parts for improved power, handling and braking
  
  
• Stage Three features new high-output version of the powerful aluminum-block Gen III 426 HEMI® V-8 crate engine, delivers 590 horsepower
  
  
• Dodge Charger Redline will debut at 2012 North American International Auto Show
  

Delivering performance and an even more aggressive look, the 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is a 426 HEMI®-powered showcase of new Mopar® performance kits that will arrive later this year. The Dodge Charger Redline vehicle with all three Mopar performance stage kits will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.

"Since the 1960s, the Mopar Brand has built a long history of adding power and performance to the Dodge Charger ? and with the Redline, we Moparized the new Charger with modern-day performance and style while giving a nod to our storied past," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. "With three kits, Mopar offers a tailored choice for every customer."
 
Stage I: Aerodynamic Carbon Fiber Exterior Components and Interior Accents

Based on the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T model, Mopar's list of Stage I modifications includes a full-width Mopar carbon fiber chin spoiler to give the Charger Redline a more aggressive appearance. Matching the Redline Tri-coat paint, the two-piece grille features a body-color painted-grille surround with black signature "crosshair" insert. Large 20 x 8-inch Mopar Black Envy Wheels feature a Pitch Black-painted wheel face with polished accents. Mopar carbon fiber door scoops highlight Dodge Charger Redline's signature body-side scallops and include heritage "R/T" badging to pay homage to the historic 1970 Charger model. A three-piece Mopar carbon fiber rear spoiler adds additional down force and provides an even more dynamic look. Emphasizing Dodge Charger Redline's fastback silhouette is Mopar's vinyl roof graphic in matte black.

The Dodge Charger Redline's cockpit design features premium materials and is further enhanced with a Mopar aluminum shift bezel and aluminum instrument panel bezel with Redline perimeter accent. For a more enthusiast-desired look, Mopar pedal covers are made from stainless steel and feature a rubberized pattern for improved traction.

Stage II: Mopar Bolt-on Performance Parts Deliver Improved Power, Handling and Braking

Designed and tested straight from the factory, the Dodge Charger Redline features Mopar's Stage II performance kit to enhance its already world-class power, handling and braking.

Allowing the Dodge Charger Redline's legendary HEMI® V-8 engine to perform at its optimal level, Mopar's cat-back performance exhaust system delivers an increase in horsepower and a menacing "throaty" sound. Under the hood, a front-tower cross-brace and front tower brace caps provide increased structural stability for improved handling dynamics. For ultimate braking capabilty, high-performance Mopar brake linings are track tested and deliver fade-resistance during hard braking use.

Stage III: Mopar's Gen III High Output 426 HEMI V-8 engine, with 590 Horsepower on Tap

Delivering 220 more horsepower than the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T, the Charger Redline features the new high-output version of the powerful and lightweight Gen III 426 HEMI V-8 crate engine (for race/off-road use only).

With its legendary 426 cubic-inch "Elephant Motor," the Dodge Charger Redline delivers 590 horsepower via a lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block that shaves more than 100 lbs. from the traditional cast-iron crate version. The new Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine is professionally built and includes a stout, balanced lower reciprocating assembly that features a forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt mains at 2, 3 and 4, and cross-bolted 4-bolt mains at 1 and 5. H-beam style rods are made from forged steel and coupled to forged 11:1 compression ratio aluminum pistons. Included is a revised windage tray to provide excellent oil dispersion and prevents oil aeration by the crankshaft.

The Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine's valvetrain starts with a more aggressive roller camshaft with .639 intake and .628 exhaust lift and cylinder heads that feature the latest designs for exceptional flow characteristics. To help stabilize the valvetrain at high engine rpm, tie bars are available.

Mopar cast-aluminum valve covers and billet fuel rails are also included in the Dodge Charger Redline's Stage III performance kit.

Mopar-First Features

Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

• Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
  
  
• Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
  
  
• Wi-Fi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
  
  
• Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to market with a new interactive vehicle tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on pre-set parameters
  
  
• 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
  
  
• WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

News Source [Chrysler]

Published on Monday January 02, 2012

Mopar has set its sights on the 2012 Chrysler 200. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar is a rolling showcase for the latest Mopar exterior parts that will be available for the 200 sedan in 2012. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.

"The Super S is Mopar's interpretation of the Chrysler 200," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. "The extensive list of high-quality Mopar parts enhances the performance and appearance of our Chrysler 200."

For Stage One, Mopar's long list of modifications starts at the front of the car with a large chin spoiler, satin chrome fog light trim, satin chrome grille surround and mesh in the upper and lower grilles. The upper grille is gloss black with a recessed Chrysler wing badge.

Body sides feature new side sills, satin chrome belt molding, black chrome "200" badges and gray or hyper black 18-inch "S" alloy wheels.

From the rear view, the new look is capped off by a new trunk lid spoiler, satin chrome light bar and a matte black lower diffuser with attached exhaust openings.

Stage Two adds performance with a coil-over suspension, which also lowers the center of gravity for the vehicle. In addition, Stage Two includes a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust.

This Mopar package on the Chrysler 200 Super S will be available on Chrysler 200S later in 2012. Mopar's Chrysler 200 Super S will be one many Mopar-modified vehicles that will debut during the 2012 auto show season.

Published on Monday Dexember 26, 2011

Introducing the 2013 HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep by Hennessey Performance

Hennessey Performance (HPE) is well known for taking fast cars, trucks and SUV's and making them faster. The company will be offering their HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep for 2013. Based on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, the crew from HPE takes the factory 6.4 L Hemi and increases displacement to 7.0 L (426 cubic inches) while adding a twin turbo forced induction system. The resulting 805 bhp and 823 lb-ft of torque will be enough to propel the HPE800 from 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds.

Additional modifications include an upgraded transmission system and torque converter upgrade, 15.1 inch Brembo brakes front and rear, a lowered sport suspension system, lighter alloy wheels, carbon fiber front splitter and a custom leather interior with Alcantara steering wheel.

"We've built dozens of 600-800 hp Jeep SRT8s over the past five years, so we have an existing client base who will want to upgrade the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 to an even higher level", said company founder and president, John Hennessey. "This vehicle is designed for the performance minded driver who lives in Aspen or Moscow and wants to be the fastest in all weather conditions."

HPE will limit production at just 24 examples with pricing starting at $235,000.

2013 HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep - Specifications:

Power:

• 805 bhp @ 5,800 rpm
  
  
• 823 bhp @ 4,000 rpm
  

Performance:

• 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
  
  
• 1/4 mile: 10.9 @ 130 mph
  

Includes:

• 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
  
  
• HPE800 Twin Turbo Engine Upgrade
  
  
• Transmission Upgrade
  
  
• Torque Converter Upgrade
  
  
• HPE 20 inch Wheel Upgrade
  
  
• Custom Leather / Alcantara Interior Upgrade
  
  
• Brembo Brake System Upgrade (6-piston calipers front and 4-piston calipers rear, 15.1 inch cross drilled rotors front and rear)
  
  
• Lowered Suspension System
  
  
• Carbon Fiber Front Lip Spoiler
  
  
• Serial Numbered Dash Plaque & Engine Compartment Plaque
  

NewsSource [HennesseyPerformance]

Published on Tuesday December 27, 2011

Designed to be the most luxurious and fuel-efficient Chrysler flagship sedan ever, the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series combines ultra-premium leather ? once limited to some of the most exotic Italian luxury cars ? with world-class refinement and handling, state-of-the-art safety and connectivity features and eight-speed automatic transmission with Pentastar® V-6 engine for 31 best-in-class highway mpg.

"The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Edition is more than just our flagship car, it's the trophy for the tireless majority, an automobile designed and built to meet the most discerning of expectations," said Saad Chehab, President and CEO ? Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "It's fitted with a paddle shifting eight-speed transmission found only on cars twice its cost, dressed with the highest grade Italian Poltrona Frau leather and finished with hand sanded real wood found only in exotic cars ? all to deliver a surprising combination of hyper craftsmanship, style, technology and 'uber' best-in-class fuel economy at 31 mpg."

The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series expands the Chrysler flagship sedan lineup further with a fuel-efficient V-6 engine option, in addition to the top-of-the-range Chrysler 300C Luxury Series sedan with its powerful 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology.

World-class luxury with expressive styling details
The all-new Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series are the most highly appointed sedans the brand has ever offered.

Exclusive interior features found on the Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series sedans include either Black or Mochachino Poltrona Frau® "Foligno" leather-wrapped instrument panel, cluster brow, center console side panels and upper front- and rear-door panels. Premium Nappa leather covers the door armrest, bolster and center console armrest. Black or two-tone Mochachino seats are wrapped exclusively in supple Nappa leather and include 12-way power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats (including four-way power lumbar) with two-mode ventilation and two-mode heated seats for both front and rear passengers. Black or two-tone Mochachino leather-wrapped steering wheel - with all-new die-cast paddle shifters - features a unique chrome accent ring to highlight the segment-exclusive 360-degree heated rim. Completing the interior environment is specially selected Natural Pore Mocha wood trim featuring a matte finish to enhance the beauty of the real wood.

On the exterior, large 20-inch polished face (rear-wheel drive (RWD) only, 19-inch with all-wheel drive (AWD) and painted pocket aluminum wheels, provide the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series sedans with an even more planted and road-holding look. Platinum chrome fascia accents, exterior mirror caps and door handle accents provide an even more upscale look. Topping off the unique exterior is a platinum-chrome finished grille surround with platinum-chrome mesh grille for a truly distinctive appearance.

Premium amenities include the segment's largest touchscreen infotainment system (8.4-inch) Uconnect® Touch 8.4N with Garmin® navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable color EVIC, power tilt and telescoping steering column with memory, power-adjustable pedals with memory, power backlight sunshade, premium 18-ounce Berber floor mats satin chrome lower door sills with "Chrysler" logo, dual heated/cooled cup holders, ambient lit foot well lighting, LED illuminated interior door handles and front and rear map pockets, premium carpeted trunk mat, HomeLink universal transceiver and power exterior mirrors with memory, driver mirror auto-dimming and auto-tilt in Reverse.

Available in RWD or with the segment's most advanced AWD system, the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series models arrive at Chrysler dealerships in the first-quarter of 2012. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (including $825 destination) of these Chrysler 300 models is:

- Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (RWD) $40,145
- Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (AWD) $42,495
- Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (RWD) $42,895
- Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (AWD) $45,245

Democratization of technology: segment-first eight-speed automatic transmission
Once available only on premium import vehicles costing twice as much, the 2012 Chrysler 300 is the first domestic luxury sedan to feature an eight-speed automatic transmission. This new segment-exclusive ZF 8HP45 eight-speed automatic transmission expands the world-class power and fuel-efficiency of the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series and delivers class-leading fuel efficiency with respect to:

- Best-in-class highway fuel economy (31 highway mpg)
- Best-in-class V-6 AWD fuel economy (18 city and 27 highway mpg)
- Best-in-class combined fuel economy (23 with RWD, 21 with AWD)
- Unsurpassed city fuel economy (19 city mpg RWD, 18 mpg AWD)
- Overall unsurpassed fuel economy in its class (19 city and 31 highway mpg with RWD)

The addition of three more gear ratios in the proven ZF eight-speed automatic transmission design help to reduce the gaps normally associated with upshifting and downshifting. Combined with the award-winning 292 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, passengers will experience world-class levels of refinement due to small, evenly spaced ratios that provide quicker acceleration and smoother shifts.

Delivering up to a 17 percent fuel economy improvement compared with the previous generation six-cylinder Chrysler 300 AWD models, the new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series AWD combines the new eight-speed automatic transmission, fuel-efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and the segment's most advanced AWD system for maximum all-weather traction and efficiency.

Chrysler 300's AWD system (both V-6 and V-8 engines) features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system to improve real-world fuel economy. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Chrysler 300's innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between RWD and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in RWD sedans.

News Source [Chrysler Group LLC]

Published on December 23, 2011

Mopar is spreading its parts support network into new global markets. Chrysler and Fiat have opened new parts distribution centres in Shanghai and Dubai at 16,000 and 18,000 square feet, respectively. The new warehouses will help support Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Fiat brands around the world with a more comprehensive parts distribution system as the American marques continue to grow globally. Chrysler says that the facility in Shanghai will stock over 35,000 part numbers while its counterpart in Dubai will stock slightly less at 30,000. Chrysler is also planning to bolster its Middle East presence in other ways, however.

The company says it will open 12 Mopar Express lanes in the region. In 2011, five opened in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, while seven more will begin business in Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Kuwait in 2012. The service centres will provide customers with comprehensive vehicle inspections and factory-backed service.

16,000 sq. meter facility in Shanghai
18,000 sq. meter facility in Dubai
More than 65,000 parts
Facilities to support Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram and Fiat brands
12 Mopar Express Lanes opening in Middle East

December 21, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - In a move to support growth in international markets, Chrysler Group LLC and Fiat S.p.A today announced the opening of Mopar® parts distribution centers in Shanghai and Dubai.

"With the opening of these two facilities, we are expanding our parts distribution network in order to fully support the growth taking place in these markets," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. "As our vehicle brands continue to grow internationally, Mopar will continue to look for opportunities to effectively service our dealers and distributors, and ultimately our customers."

The parts distribution center in China will integrate China domestic and regional operations, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective supply chain and improved service levels for the company's growing presence in China and Asia Pacific. The facility will be located in Yangshan Port Shanghai, a Free Trade Zone that offers Mopar the platform to support international trade from China. The 16,000 sq. meter facility will distribute more than 35,000 part numbers to more than 130 dealer locations in China and more than 20 third-party distributors and joint-venture partners throughout Asia Pacific. The warehouse will also be a referral point for other Mopar warehouses in South Korea, Japan, and Australia which service more than 200 additional dealer locations.

The 18,000 sq. meter parts distribution center in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be located in the Jebel Ali Free Trade Zone, providing Mopar the benefits to support the redistribution of parts throughout the Middle East and Africa. The warehouse will move more than 30,000 part numbers to support Middle East and African general distributors and local sales companies.

12 Mopar Express Lanes Opening in Middle East
In 2011, five Mopar Express Lanes were opened Saudi Arabia (Riyadh and Jeddah), Kuwait and Jordan. In 2012, seven Mopar Express Lanes will open in United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi), Qatar (Doha), Saudi Arabia (Dammam and Jeddah), Iraq (Baghdad) and Kuwait.

Following are facts about Mopar's current global footprint:

More than 45 commercial offices and more than 50 parts distribution centers supporting more than 120 markets
Parts distribution centers occupy nearly 20 million square feet
22 customer-care call centers
350,000 order lines daily
More than 3,500 suppliers
More than 11,000 ship-to locations

Mopar-First Features
Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
Wi-Fi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to market with a new interactive vehicle tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on pre-set parameters
2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network


News Source [Autoblog]

Published on Tuesday December 20, 2011

According to a report released last week by the Human Rights Commission (HRC), Chrysler Group was one of 190 leading employers to achieve a perfect score of 100 percent on HRC's 2012 Corporate Equality Index (CEI). The HRC is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, America's largest civil rights organization, and is dedicated to achieving LGBT equality. The HRC rated 636 employers for the 2012 report.  This was the sixth time Chrysler Group has achieved a perfect score on the CEI, which was established in 2002.

The CEI rates corporations annually based on their LGBT workplace policies and benefits and reflects equal health care coverage for all LGBT employees and their families. A perfect score indicates a company provides full parity for domestic partner benefits, not only in basic medical coverage, but in dependent care, retirement and other benefits that affect families' financial and medical well-being. Chrysler Group's 100 percent rating also signifies coverage for transgender individuals for medically necessary care ? a community the HRC notes has historically been overlooked."All of our employees at Chrysler contribute to the success of our Company," said Nancy A. Rae, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Chrysler Group LLC. "Chrysler Group prides itself in creating an inclusive business environment in which all people and ideas are appreciated and respected."

"This year's CEI also rated businesses' demonstrated commitment to a robust LGBT organizational competency program that enhances an inclusive work environment, a public commitment to the LGBT community in the form of philanthropy, support for LGBT equality under the law, supplier diversity and other efforts aimed at broadly engaging with our community," the report notes. "LGBT people are an integral part of the American workforce and, similarly, the benefits and protections of employment are crucial to our community as we continue to work for full inclusion."The Corporate Equality Index 2011 report is available at www.hrc.org/cei .

News Source [TheSacramentoBee ]
Read more here:

Published on Tuesday December 6, 2011

The Dodge Dart name is being resurrected for a new small car being unveiled at next month's Detroit Auto Show.

The Dodge Dart name was last used on a small car sold in the mid-1970s.

The car will be based on engineering shared with Italy's Fiat, Chrysler's parent company.

For now, Chrysler has released only two images of the car. One shows a close-up of the front corner. The other shows the rear of the car with taillights similar to those on the 2011 Dodge Charger.

The car will be built in Chrysler's Belvidere, Ill., factory. Fuel economy and pricing information for the car are not yet available. It will be sold next year as a 2013 model.

The Dart will be adapted from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta sold in Europe, but it's wider and longer to better suit American tastes.

It will be available with three engine choices: 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engines and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine.

The only small car Dodge sells now is the Caliber, a model that Chrysler and Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has said is not competitive.

"To call the Caliber a retail vehicle would be an abomination," Marchionne said during a meeting with reporters at last year's Detroit Auto Show.

Chrysler Group, which makes Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles, has been partnered with Fiat since emerging from bankruptcy in the summer of 2009.

News Source [CNNNews ]

Published Friday November 25, 2011

Chrysler is planning on making some market changes. Those changes will inevitably affect Canada and the United States. Although both North American countries are just a short jog away, Chrysler has some future plans regarding their minivan line. Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne has explained in the past how the brand is looking to stop making duplicate offerings between inner brands. This would be an effort that will likely see them able to turn out different product, making a stronger more unique vehicle lineup for each brand.

According to the plan, the U.S. will only get a replacement Chrysler Town & Country when the new model is due out, while Canada on the other hand will keep the Dodge Grand Caravan namesake and not be offered the Town & Country. What is the reason behind the juxtaposition? The answer is simple, the Chrysler Town & Country outsells the Dodge Grand Caravan in the U.S. two-to-one, while here in Canada the Dodge beats out the Chrysler offering by a staggering Ten-to-one.

"If we go to one minivan, it would certainly be the Dodge Grand Caravan in Canada, but the Town & Country resonates more strongly in the U.S., so that's going to be the van in the U.S.," said Reid Biglund, head of the Dodge brand.

"There's just so much equity in the Caravan name in Canada," he added.

With that said, Canadian minivan purchasers will be glad to know that we can expect the latest rendition of the Grand Caravan within the next two years.

Published on Wednesday November 23, 2011

Chrysler got tons of traction with its 2011 Super Bowl ad featuring Eminem. But it takes a different approach to selling the 2012 Chrysler 300, relying instead on a dead Detroit poet and the 1917 "See It Through" poem.

The new Chrysler 300 commercial airs nationally on Thanksgiving Day during the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers football game on Fox.

The "See It Through" campaign borrows the name of the poem and capitalizes on the theme of hard times and comebacks. The poem was written by the prolific Edgar A. Guest, a former Detroit Free Press columnist who died in 1959 and wrote more than 11,000 poems. He was known for "a facility for folksy verse, sentimental and moralistic," according to the Reader's Encyclopedia of American Literature. His most famous line is: "It takes a heap o'livin' in a house t' make it home."

"This new ad is a humble thanksgiving nod to everyone who has believed in Chrysler's resurgence," said Saad Chehab, Chrysler Brand president and CEO in a statement on Monday.

The ad features Detroit Lions defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh standing in front of "his Chrysler 300," notes the automaker.

News Source [InsideLine]

Published Wednesday November 16, 2011

The Jeep Wrangler has risen to the top of the compact SUV category in separate rankings by ALG and Kelley Blue Book, which predict future resale values.

Five years from now, Kelley Blue Book predicts, a 2012 Wrangler will be worth 55 percent of its current, new-vehicle price. That projected residual value put it at the top of Kelley Blue Book's compact vehicle category, up from second place last year, when the 2011 Wrangler's residual value was projected at 45.2 percent.

Kelley Blue Book named Toyota as it best resale-value brand, with a predicted residual of 40.5 percent, up from 38.5 percent last year. Lexus, with a predicted value of 37.9, up from 36.4 percent last year, was named best resale luxury brand. Jeep, buoyed by Wrangler, jumped to second place in the top 10 brand ranking, up from eighth a year ago. Scion, which didn't make the top 10 last year, climbed to No. 3.

Eric Ibara, director of residual consulting at Kelley Blue Book, says his company is "amazed" at how well Wrangler holds its value ? and isn't sure why. It competes in a category with such vehicles as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson but is perceived as different from them, he says.

"We have some theories," Ibara says. "It's easy seeing those vehicles competing against each other, but there's not much competition for a Wrangler.

"Part of its popularity, we think, is just being unique."

Kelley Blue Book released its resale brand rankings as part of its 2012 Residual Value Analysis. Its predictions are for five years to reflect the typical length of new-vehicle ownership.

ALG gave the nod to Subaru as its mainstream brand winner at 50 percent, down from 53 percent last year.

Lexus was the top luxury brand in ALG's rankings

ALG released its rankings as part of its 13th Annual Residual Value Awards. Its predictions are for 36 months, the typical length of a lease. ALG would not release predicted residuals for top finishers in its vehicle segments.

Raj Sundaram, a senior vice president at DealerTrack Holdings Inc., ALG's former owner, is a consultant to ALG as it transitions to new owner TrueCar Inc. He says ALG set its overall 2012 model residual projections lower than it had set projections last year and the year before. That's because an uptick in leasing that started last year will result in more off-lease vehicles returning to the market in greater numbers, which is expected to lower used-vehicle prices in three years.

On average, ALG set residual values for nonluxury vehicles at 45 percent for 2012, down from 47 in 2011. On the luxury side, ALG set average projections at 45.5 for 2012, down from 47 in 2011.

"In 2014 toward the second half and in 2015 we do think supply will be a very different dynamic, higher than what we're experiencing this year and next year," Sundaram says. "We have brought our residuals down."

As in previous years, import brands dominate both companies' projected residual rankings.

News Source [Autonews ]

Published Tuesday November 15, 2011

The 2012 Ram 1500 was named the Best Half-Ton Pickup Truck this week by the Canadian Truck King Challenge team this week, beating out the Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra and the Nissan Titan. Five judges evaluated the pickups in tests that included towing 8,000 pounds, carrying 1,800 pounds of payload and some off-roading.

"The testing performed by the Truck King Challenge is a great third party evaluation of the highly competitive half-ton truck segment, and we are thrilled that our Ram 1500 took top honors," said Reid Bigland, Chrysler Canada's president and CEO. "The Ram 1500 is the most awarded Ram truck ever and has the longest lasting line of pickups in Canada. It's no coincidence that more Canadian pickup buyers are switching to Ram 1500 than to any other truck."

Ram sold 5,282 pickups in Canada in October, a 53 percent increase over 2010, and the brand remains the second-best-selling vehicle in Canada, the company says, adding that Ram has seen the greatest gains in Canadian market share for 2011.

News Source [pickuptrucks.com ]

Dodge and the Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division have divulged information on two new special-edition high-performance models. The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee and Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket receive a host of visual changes to make the cars stand out from the crowd.

Mechanically the two cars are unchanged, continuing to house a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 that pumps out 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The Charger is available in either Stinger Yellow or Pitch Black paint, with unique stripes and graphics on the hood and trunklid, as well as unique 20-inch wheels. The fenders wear "392 HEMI" badges, and the front grille features a 3D helmeted bee logo.

The Charger's interior receives a new three-spoke steering wheel, yellow and silver stitching for the seats, and an embroidered Super Bee logo on the front headrests. Super Bee logos also have been added to the dashboard and in the software of the Electronic Vehicle Information Center screen.

The Super Bee package is designed to recall Dodge Super Bee cars of yore, starting the 1968 Coronet. From 1971, the Super Bee package was made available on the Charger.

The Challenger SRT8 Yellow Jacket also gets a healthy dose of visual changes, with exclusive Stinger Yellow paint, black stripes, unique 20-inch wheels, and a Yellow Jacket logo on the rear fender. Inside, the leather seats receive a Stinger Yellow accent stripe along with silver accent stitching and an embroidered Stinger Yellow logo.

The Challenger was inspired by the 1969 Dodge Yellow Jacket show car, a special vehicle based on a 1970 Challenger which made the rounds at various auto shows.

Both special-edition cars will be made available in limited quantities, and can be ordered from Dodge dealerships starting in early 2012. Pricing hasn't been announced yet.

News Source: [AutomobileMag ]

• Innovative campaign includes broadcast, print, digital, social media and experiential events
  
  
• Electroluminescent billboards in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago featuring unique day and night imagery
  
  
• New Wrangler tagline debuts: 'The toughest vehicle in the world. Any world.'
  
  
• Consumers can enter to win the very first 2012 Jeep® Wrangler Call of Duty®: MW3 Special Edition via the Jeep brand Facebook page
  

The Jeep® brand is taking consumers on a journey that blurs the lines of reality and the world of "Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 3" in its advertising and marketing campaign for the new 2012 Wrangler Call of Duty®: MW3 Special Edition SUV.

The Jeep brand is launching an innovative campaign that encompasses broadcast, print, digital, social media, experiential events and an out-of-home placement that includes the use of electroluminescent billboards. The brand also is introducing a new tagline for the campaign: "The toughest vehicle in the world. Any world."

"This is more than an advertising campaign, this is a true experience that captures the excitement one feels when playing 'Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3' and when driving the all-new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition," said Olivier Francois, Chief Marketing Officer, Chrysler Group LLC. "The production team for the TV commercial consisted of award-winning motion picture talent and the set was created with detailed elements taken directly from the game. The creative execution for the print advertisement and the billboards are uniquely designed to immediately catch your attention. Each element created and produced for this campaign mirrors the same look and feel found in the game. We are thrilled that people can now experience this excitement in both the real world and in the gaming world."

News Source [PR NewsWire ]

Published Friday November 04, 2011

The standard Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition  is an impressive piece of machinery by any standard, but if you're looking for something with a little more bite Xtreme Outfitters may have what you're looking for. The company has created a custom Wrangler just for the Army Rangers. The stock drivetrain was pulled in favour of a Burnsville 5.7-litre Hemi V8 conversion paired to a five-speed automatic transmission while the standard axles were scrapped for a Dana 44 front and Dana 60 rear from Dynatrac. A TeraFlex four-inch long arm kit with provides a little extra lift, while Fox 2.0 performance shocks ensure that this Wrangler can soak up whatever terrain you decided to conquer.

Smittybilt provided a set of XRC armour fenders, an SRC stinger bumper and a rear XRC bumper with an adjustable tire mount, some of which have been decorated with shots from a 9mm pistol. Xtreme Outfitters also worked with BMF for a set of pre-production Novakane 17x9-inch wheels.

Inside, the Wrangler uses custom lighting from Rigid Lighting and Katzkin custom two-tone leather seats embroidered with the Ranger logo. Xtreme Outfitters has donated the Wrangler to the Army Rangers to be auctioned off to benefit veteran Rangers. Raffle tickets are US$25 a piece, and you can enter as many times as you like. Xtreme Outfitters says that the total build tallies up to around US$150,000, though all of the decommissioned firearms spread around the cabin aren't part of the deal. Head over to the Rangers site for more information.

News Source [Autoblog ]

Published on Wednesday November 02, 2011

Chrysler says its U.S. sales jumped 27 percent in October because of strong demand for its Jeep and Chrysler brand vehicles. It was the company's best October sales since 2007.

Chrysler sold more than 114,000 cars and trucks last month compared with 90,000 a year earlier.

The company was among the first of the car companies to report sales figures on Tuesday. Sales overall were expected to rise last month to the best pace in two years. People who put off buying cars last summer because Japanese brands were in tight supply returned to the market in October.

Chrysler says its sales were led by the Chrysler 200 midsize sedan, the Jeep Compass compact sport utility vehicle and the Ram pickup truck.

News Source [BusinessWeek ]

Published on October 24, 2011
 

Already the most-awarded sport-utility vehicle in history, Jeep Grand Cherokee has been named "SUV of Texas" for the second consecutive year ? by nearly 60 journalists representing the opinion-leading Texas Auto Writers Association. The award was one of three captured by Jeep vehicles during the annual TAWA Rodeo ? a two-day test of the industry's newest SUV and truck lineup over a variety of on-road and rugged off-road terrain  held last Friday and Saturday at the Knibbe Ranch in Spring Branch, Texas, near San Antonio.

The new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited ? with more fuel efficiency, power and torque for 2012 ? was named "Mid-size SUV of Texas" and the ultra-premium Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit was named "Luxury SUV of Texas."

"We are delighted that the influential journalists representing the Texas Auto Writers Association have once again recognized Jeep vehicles with several awards, and particularly the Jeep Grand Cherokee as the 'SUV of Texas,'" said Mike Manley, President and CEO ? Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Winning this award last year started a string of Grand Cherokee accolades that made it the most-awarded SUV of all-time. More importantly, we know that these TAWA awards translate directly into sales. Through September of this year, Grand Cherokee sales are up 78 percent in the U.S. In the same time period in Texas, sales are up nearly 200 percent.

"We thank the TAWA journalists for recognizing that Jeep is providing consumers a lineup of SUVs that deliver an unmatched combination of capability, refinement, craftsmanship and value," Manley added.

Fifty-seven TAWA members were given two days of on- and off-road evaluation time with Jeep vehicles and their competitors. Consideration was given to everything from exterior styling and off-road capability, to the vehicles' overall utility, value and fuel efficiency.

"Jeep Grand Cherokee has once again demonstrated its superior levels of performance, quality, interior craftsmanship, and reliability that make it an award-winning SUV," said Mike Herzing, TAWA President. "Grand Cherokee is a tremendous value for consumers, and is clearly the 'SUV of Texas.'"

This year's TAWA Rodeo marks the second consecutive year that Jeep Wrangler captured the "Mid-size SUV of Texas" award.

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit captured the "Luxury of SUV of Texas" award in its first year of competition at the TAWA rodeo, beating vehicles from several luxury/premium brands.

News Source []

Published October 24 2011

Ram continues to flesh out the company's product line with a few new pickup variants. Next year will see the Power Wagon line grow with the addition of ST and Laramie trim levels for the first time. ST guise is meant more for companies and government agencies that may require a pickup capable of heading off into the uncharted wilderness. With single-tone paint matched to black fender flairs, mirrors and bumpers, the model dispenses with frills. Meanwhile, Laramie trim rolls in leather seats, a premium audio system and plenty of wood-grain trim throughout the cabin. Outside, the truck gets body-colour fender flairs and chrome mirrors and bumpers.

In addition, the automaker plans to roll out a 1500 Mossy Oak Edition. Those familiar with the hunting scene will recognize Mossy Oak as one of the leading companies in the camouflage industry, and the latest addition to the 1500 fleet will boast bed caps and a tail gate wrapped in the Mossy Oak Breakup Infinity camo pattern. Inside, the door panels also get the same treatment, and buyers will find the Mossy Oak logo embroidered on the seat headrests.

News Source [Autoblog ]

Published October 8th, 2011

Eight winners of Chrysler Group LLC's "Lucky Day Car Giveaway" promotion now face a tough but exhilarating decision - which Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, or Ram Truck model do they choose as their grand prize.

A "Lucky Day" winner was selected from each of Chrysler Group's regional Business Centers in the United States. The winners each get to pick a Chrysler Group vehicle of their choice up to a $30,000 value.

More than 138,000 people entered the first "Lucky Day Car Giveaway" Sweepstakes at community events, fairs, festivals and local sporting events that were sponsored by the Business Centers. Interested consumers also were able to enter the sweepstakes online.

The eight winners are Terry Thrift of Livingston, Mont.; Suzanne Gay of Fowlerville, Mich.; Robert Haffner of Burke, Va.; April Durham of Henry, Ill.; Eleanor Frank of West Orange, N.J.; Helen Bernau of Jefferson, Ga.; Diane O'Neal of Houston, Texas, and Seth Schwartz of Encinitas, Calif.

The winners were selected in a random drawing by an independent judging organization from all eligible entries received throughout the five-month promotion period that ended Aug. 31. Each of the eight winners will be able to pick up the vehicle of their choice in the coming weeks from a Chrysler Group dealership

News Source [MarketWatch]

Tuesday October 18, 2011

The Ram Outdoorsman is about to become a major player on the small screen. Orion Entertainment recently announced it will produce an outdoor adventure show for the new NBC Sports Network, which will replace the Versus network in January.

The show, called "Ram Outdoorsman," will prominently feature an Outdoorsman in every episode as it explores the sports of hunting and angling from Texas to Alaska. Truck enthusiasts will remember that Ram has made a huge push in the past two years to nearly double the number of models offered, including models such as the Tradesman, Express, Longhorn and Outdoorsman. Each model has a list of options consistent with the theme of the given truck.

We're not surprised at all that someone in television figured out a way to take advantage of the obvious angle here. As slow as some people are who work in television, this one was pretty obvious.

"This new series will provide the Ram Outdoorsman with even greater visibility among America's 50 million sportsmen," Ram CEO Fred Diaz said. "Chris Dorsey and Gerald McRaney are two of the best known and most credible personalities in the outdoors. Working with Orion Entertainment helps the Ram Truck brand speak directly to customers and demonstrates our commitment to the outdoors and outdoors enthusiasts."

News Source [PickUpTrucks]

Chrysler has at least one hybrid in the works, a hybrid version of the Chrysler 300 due in 2013. But Marchionne has been skeptical of hybrids, saying they are costly to produce and would sell at low volumes.

In an interview here, Marchionne said he has not changed his attitude about hybrids. But he acknowledged that fuel economy standards for 2025 have made hybrids mandatory.

"I have no other way of getting to 2025 numbers than by going to hybrids," he said.

In July, the Obama administration said it plans to increase the standard for cars and light trucks to 54.5 mpg in the 2025 model year from 35.5 mpg in 2016.

The increase would be the biggest jump in corporate average fuel economy standards since the federal government started regulating CAFE in the 1970s. The 2025 targets still must be officially adopted by the federal government.

Marchionne said Chrysler's hybrids would be in addition to a broad offering of diesel-powered vehicles in the United States.

He said Chrysler will begin offering a diesel-powered Jeep Grand Cherokee in 2013, and thereafter most Chrysler Group large vehicles will offer a diesel in the United States.

Most Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models exported to Europe are diesel-powered, but none is sold in the United States.

In its November 2009 five-year plan, Chrysler said 14 percent of its global sales would be powered by diesels by 2014, up from 8 percent in 2009.

Meanwhile, Marchionne said that offering compressed natural gas in a significant part of Chrysler Group's lineup would quickly improve the company's average fuel economy.

"The likelihood of that happening is uncertain, but I'm still hopeful that at least a sizable portion of the U.S. market will develop CNG capability. And we are ready," he said.

News Source [AutomotiveNews]

Published on Friday October 7, 2011

Jeep's new Grand Cherokee will get its first update in the coming year,
and among the mechanical tweaks will be a new ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission.

Replacing the five-speed auto currently offered with the big SUV and 4WD, the new transmission is expected to be paired with the Grand Cherokee's petrol and diesel V6 engines.

According to Britain's Autocar magazine, the eight-speed will also make its way to the V8 Hemi models - a move which could help the big 5.7 litre engine shave a good chunk off its 14.1 l/100km fuel economy.

Importantly, the big Jeep's CO2 emissions would also improve with the arrival of the eight-speed transmission.

"Our approach to lowering CO2 is a deployment of lots of different technologies," Jeep Europe boss Joe Veltri told Autocar.
"Hybrids, improved aerodynamics, more diesels, eight-speed gearboxes and nine-speed gearboxes for front-wheel-drive cars will all help us improve economy and CO2."

News of an eight-speed auto for the Grand Cherokee follows confirmation that the new Chrysler 300C will also gain the new, more fuel-efficient transmission.

News Source [TheMotorReport]

Published on Tuesday October 4, 2011
The spawn of the Chrysler-Fiat merger has made its way to the English market, in the form of the 2012 Chrysler Delta and 2012 Chrysler Ypsilon. If they look familiar, that's because these cars are cribbed directly from the Lancia range.

The Ypsilon is available with Fiat's 0.9-litre TwinAir, which earned International Engine of the Year honours. If that's too small, there's a 1.2-litre four-pot and 1.3-litre turbodiesel available, as well. The Delta gets two different 1.4-litre options, including a 140-hp, 1.4-litre MultiAir four-cylinder. On top of the 1.4s, there are also 1.6- and 2.0-litre engines available.

Both cars have just gone on sale in the UK, and Chrysler hopes these reworked Italians will improve the brand's meager share across Europe.


News Source [Autoblog ]

Published on Friday September 30, 2011

The magnitude of Chrysler's recovery should not be under-estimated, claims its UK head as the brand launches two new models to the British market.

Speaking at the launch of the Chrysler Ypsilon and Delta, Brand Director of the newly renamed Jeep Chrysler UK Nigel Land says that the US manufacturer has performed "an epic turnaround."

Chrysler emerged from bankruptcy protection in 2009 thanks to an alliance with Italian state brand Fiat.

The Chrysler brand has now recorded 17 straight months of volume growth. Fiat head Sergio Marchionne recently announced to the Italian press that Chrysler is on target to sell 2 million units in 2011 ? its profit will be $2 billion dollars, a milestone that will activate an increase in Fiat's holding in Chrysler from 53.5 to 58.5 per cent.

Land says that this is just the beginning ? a five-year product plan launched in November 2009 sees $23 billion investment in new product and 20 new model launches across the group, including seven new Chryslers.

But he adds firmly that the integration of the two brands is not just about badge-engineering models ? both the Ypsilon and Delta are sold by Fiat as Lancias in the rest of Europe.

He quotes as examples the Jeep Grand Cherokee ? sold in America with big petrol engines not relevant to Europe, so re-engineered to take a Fiat 3-litre diesel, and the Lancia Thema, dismissed by some as a badge-engineered version of Chrysler's 300C.

"The suspension of this car has been tuned for Europe by Fiat, and it was also decided that the interior could be better, so a new design was entirely created in Turin ? and incorporated into Chrysler cars on sale in the US home market," Land says.

The Ypsilon represents Chrysler's first attempt in the B segment, as the brand tries to revise its image into one that incorporates the making of luxury small cars.

According to Chrysler Global President and CEO Saad Chehab this message is now equally relevant in America. "Things have changed in the last six, years, small cars are now cool," he says.

Chehab promises that in future Chrysler will offer a more extensive Chrysler European range that will follow consumers right through their life styles, from city cars through sports hatches right up to SUVs and people carriers.

Among Chrysler's planned seven new model launches will be the 300C next year and a D segment car in 2013.

The Ypsilon and its C-segment Delta sister have modest UK sales targets of 2-2,500 and 4-4,500 respectively, but Land tells CarandVanNews that they are not about making large sums of money. "These cars show that Chrysler can be about making small vehicles," he says.

Chrysler is also rebuilding its UK dealer network. From a high of 90 in 2007 it has fallen back to 50, but is expected to climb again to 56 by the end of the year. Land claims strong interest in the brand from dealer groups with other franchises, Fiat outlets and independents.

News Source [CarAndVanNews]

Published on Monday September 26, 2011


PickupTrucks.com asked five half-ton truck manufacturers to provide their best trucks for $30,000. The entries consisted of the 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 Extended Cab, 2011 Ford F-150 Regular Cab, 2011 Nissan Titan King Cab, 2011 Ram 1500 Quad Cab and 2011 Toyota Tundra Double Cab, all of which were put through a variety of tests over four days in and around Detroit. Unlike a comparison that seeks model-feature parity, this one allowed for manufacturers to provide whatever they thought was best, which is how you get Ford supplying the only regular cab among the field.

After being run through load tests, brake tests, the drag strip, 0-to-60 and even an autocross run, the crown was given to the Ram 1500 Quad Cab. It didn't scorch its competition, but it was always near the top of the field, which gave it enough to take the glory.

News Source [PickupTrucks.com]

Published Monday September 26, 2011

The Big Three are finally done one-upping each other in this year's Michigan State Police vehicle evaluations, with the 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit V8 laying down some heady numbers on the test track. The Charger emerged with the fastest lap time ever recorded in the Michigan State Police test's history, at 1:33.7.

That, boys and girls, is something else. The Chevrolet Caprice PPV may have the best top speed and braking, but the Charger has shown it has the chops to slice up the twisties as well. The Hemi-powered Charger also gets to 60 in under six seconds with the optional 3.07 gears.

The only strike against the Charger is that needed a V8 to post those numbers, while both the Chevrolet Caprice and Ford Interceptor employ less thirsty V6s

News Source [Autoblog]

Published on Wednesday September 22, 2011

Chrysler is showing off its new state-of-the-art eight-speed transmission and fuel-efficiency in a TV spot for the 2012 Chrysler 300. It keeps the "Imported from Detroit" message rolling and is filmed throughout Detroit and the metro, starring local residents. The new 60-second, "If You're Gonna," began airing on 9/16 on broadcast and cable networks.The spot features "Heart of the City" by rapper Jay-Z One of his most prominent hits from his 2001 "Blueprint" album.

Chrysler's Dianna Gutierrez tells RBR-TVBR the media buy includes NFL on CBS, FX; NBC Playboy Club, Biggest Loser; ABC  Dancing with the Stars; football on ESPN; Bravo and HGTV.

The metro Detroit towns in the spot include Birmingham, Ferndale, Grosse Pointe Park and West Bloomfield. It features local attractions including American Coney Island, Cranbrook Institute of Science, Fox Theatre, Frank Lloyd Wright's Affleck House and Lafayette Coney Island.

News Source [Radio & Television Broadcasting Report ]

Published on Monday September 19, 2011


Jeep CEO Michael Manley says a pickup truck remains a high priority but a Wrangler-based hauler is at least four years away.

"It is too late in Wrangler's product cycle to add a pickup. The 2015 or 2016 time frame makes more sense," Manley said during an interview at the Frankfurt auto show. "That's when we will refresh the Wrangler."

Manley said no decision has been made to build a Jeep pickup.

The Jeep brand has not had a pickup since the Comanche, which was based on the Cherokee platform. The Comanche was introduced as a 1986 model and discontinued in 1992. A pickup has been on the wish list of Jeep enthusiasts and many dealers since September 2010. To many dealers' surprise, the automaker rolled out a Wrangler-based pickup concept last fall at a dealer meeting in Orlando. The concept appeared and disappeared quickly, fueling speculation that a production pickup was planned.

Meanwhile, Manley is tracking sales of a kit offered by Chrysler's Mopar aftermarket arm that provides the parts to convert a Wrangler into a pickup.

"Initial sales projections were not huge because it is an aftermarket product," he said. To create the pickup, a portion of the Wrangler must be disassembled and fitted with the pickup box and other parts.

"But the orders from the dealers are very strong," he said. The JK-8 Independence kit includes a pickup bed floor, body panels, a fiberglass cap and a bulkhead. Dealers or ambitious do-it-yourselfers can do the conversion. The kit costs $5,499, and Mopar says it has sold about 300.

Said Manley: "I am working closely with the product team because I think a pickup would be a great addition and a natural extension of the product line."

News Source [ Autoweek]

Published Thursday September 15, 2011


FRANKFURT (MarketWatch) -- Jeep, owned by Chrysler Group LLC, estimates sales will reach 850,000 units by 2014 as it leverages the global distribution network of Chrysler's owner, Fiat SpA (F.MI), to expand into markets where it has previously had little presence, according to a presentation made to industry analysts Wednesday.

The target is slightly higher than one made previously by the iconic brand, which was 800,000 units.

Other targets given at the presentation, made by brand head Michael Manley at a conference hosted by UBS in tandem with the Frankfurt motor show, include sales of 560,000 units in 2011. This target compares with the 419,000 units sold in 2010.

The numbers are included in the presentation posted on Fiat's website.

If Jeep reaches the target set for 2014, it will have surpassed its last annual sales peak of 650,000 units reported between 2007 and 2008--before Chrysler's demise sent sales plummeting to 338,000 two years later.

Jeep has been revitalized by Fiat's gradual acquisition of Chrysler. The Italian automaker has been helping Jeep and other Chrysler brands sell vehicles in markets such as Asia and Latin America in exchange for access to technology. Fiat is also working closely with Chrysler to produce new models that benefit from the strengths of both automakers, sharing parts and platforms to cut costs.

Some of the updated models issued by Jeep include the Compass and Grand Cherokee. Year-to-date sales for these cars have increased by at least 100%, according to the presentation.

News Source [ MarketWatch ]

After showcasing its Mopar® brand at auto-show exhibits throughout the U.S., Chrysler Group LLC will now show a Moparized vehicle for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

"At shows in the U.S., we've demonstrated how we can add value to our brands and vehicles," said Pietro Gorlier, COO of Mopar, Chrysler Group's service, parts and customer-care brand. "We'll now show how we can further enhance the performance and appearance of our vehicles in other parts of the world."

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Mopar will display a fully accessorized Jeep® Wrangler. In addition, Mopar will activate an Accessorization Station where Mopar representatives will install and remove accessories for show-goers.

"More than 60 percent of consumers who are in the market to purchase a new vehicle will consider the breadth and availability of accessories," said Gorlier. "At Mopar, we aggressively accessorize every single one of our vehicles. In addition, our parts and accessories are thoroughly quality-tested for performance, durability and reliability."

Following are accessories that will appear on the "Moparized" Jeep Wrangler:

    * Front off-road bumper
    * Rear off-road bumper
    * Warn 9.5ti XP Winch
    * Synthetic winch line
    * Rock rails
    * Tube doors, front
    * Snorkel, Ram air inlet
    * Cat-back exhaust
    * 2-inch lift kit
    * Tonneau cover for rear cargo area
    * Tonneau cover for second-row seats
    * Tail lamp guards
    * Black door-sill guards
    * Slush mats
    * Fuel-filler door
    * Grab-handles with coat hook

The Mopar brand has a large word-wide footprint:

    * More than 40 commercial offices
    * Operated by 50 parts distribution centers
    * Parts distribution centers occupy 12 million square-feet
    * 17 call centers
    * 180,000 order lines daily
    * 800 trucks shipped daily
    * More than 2,000 suppliers
    * More than 4,000 dealers

In the U.S., Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

    * Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
    * Vehicle-information smartphone apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
    * Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
    * Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to introduce new vehicle tracking system that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on set parameters
    * 2011 Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
    * WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
    * Brand-specific customer-care telephone lines: first to offer Sunday service hours to customers
    * WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

About the Mopar Brand

Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand.

Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original-equipment parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered and tested with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles ? a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at the website.

More than 70 Years of Mopar

When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s?the muscle-car era. The Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth "package cars" equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of "special parts" for super stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.

NewsSource [Chrysler Group LLC]

A revitalised Chrysler Australia has delivered a record sales month lead by exceptional sales of the award-winning Grand Cherokee, according to official VFACTS figures for August. The Chrysler Group (Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge) for August was significantly up on last year (1,144 units v's 787 in August 2010) as was YTD (7,062 v's 5,832.in August 2010). The all new Jeep Grand Cherokee was a star performer for Chrysler Australia, dominating the Luxury SUV segment with 501 units, almost 300 more than the next placed competitor. The 2011 Grand Cherokee's premium on-road performance and world-class interiors have made it the most capable and refined Grand Cherokee ever, with widespread acclaim and a deserving contender for the Luxury SUV crown. Veronica Johns, General Manager, National Sales at Chrysler Australia said August results were a fantastic achievement."We have been incredibly pleased by all aspects of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and these results are just the beginning, as we strive to satisfy the huge customer demand for our range".

"The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the best value premium SUV in the Australian market. Its power, performance, safety features and luxurious interiors are comparable to that of European SUV contenders, but from just $45,000," said Ms Johns.

"We're also receiving fantastic response to the long-awaited new diesel variant of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Alongside our sensational new V6 petrol, we've got the tools to continually drive more success".

News Source [Jeep Austrailia]

Chrysler Group will put fuel-saving, performance-enhancing eight-speed automatic transmissions on some 2012 cars, making it first to use the costly, sophisticated gearboxes on mainstream vehicles.

It is announcing today that V-6 models of its 2012 full-size Dodge Charger sedan (and mechanically similar but premium-price Chrysler 300) will have the eight-speeds. The big sedans had five-speed automatics for 2011. Hemi V-8 models will continue to have five-speeds.

Fuel-economy ratings jump dramatically. The 2012 rear-drive Charger, on sale later this month, is rated 19 miles per gallon in town, 31 mpg on the highway, 23 in combined driving. The 2011 was rated 18/27/21.

The new highway mileage ratings for the big Dodge are the same as for much smaller compacts and subcompacts such as the Nissan Sentra and Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. The smaller cars have better city and combined numbers, however.

The Charger V-6 models with eight-speeds and all-wheel drive are rated 18/27/21 mpg, up from 17/23/19 for the last V-6 Charger available with all-wheel drive, the 2010 model.

Chrysler Group also is developing nine-speed automatics for its smaller front-drive models, according to Mircea Gradu, vice president of driveline engineering, but the company won't say when to expect those.

News Source [USA Today ]

Spotted First Look at the All New Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Chrysler's Mopar division showcased a taste of the All-New Special Edition COD Wrangler during Detroit's annual Woodward Dream Cruise event.

An update to last year's Call of Duty Black Ops Edition Wrangler . It would appear Jeep and Activision Publishing are moving forward with their partnership. Releasing a real-life version of the special edition Wrangler that also appears in the video game.

Last year Black Ops became the best-selling video game in history with 13.7 million units sold in the U.S alone. Today the Call of Duty franchise is the best-selling video game of all-time.

Updates to the Wrangler include New front and rear bumpers, mesh reliefs in the hood, flat black wheels with large, blocky tires and large metal emblems.

Look for the latest COD Wrangler expected to be released sometime in the fall, timed to coincide with the release of the affiliated video game in November. Check back with North York Chrysler for more updates. For more spy shots check out this link

News Source [Sidequesting ]

Chrysler believes they made the best Jeep wrangler ever, with improved quality and powered by the new 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine.

The all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 developing 285 horsepower (209 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm), is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. this setup dramatically enhance Wrangler's on-road driving performance ? delivering up to 21 miles per gallon, 40 percent more power and 10 percent more torque. The extra power will also become handy off the road.

Available in 2-door and 4-door models, Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited will continue to be available in four models: Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon. Combined with an all-new interior for 2011, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler is virtually all-new over the past two model years. The 2012 Wranglers come with standard electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Trailer-sway Control, Hill-start Assist and brake traction control and?

The new models are also more reliable, as the new 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar engine recorded more than 12 million customer-equivalent miles on engine dynamometers prior to production.

Pricing for the new Jeep Wrangler is yet to be announced.

News Source [ Motorward]

Published on August 18, 2011

Previous Maserati SUV concept The "KUBANG"

Maserati is moving ahead with its plans to bring a trident-branded sport-utility vehicle into the world. Reportedly set to debut in Frankfurt later this year, the Jeep Grand Cherokee-based SUV will be built at Chrysler's Jefferson North assembly plant in Detroit. That's right, an Italian-blooded sport-ute is set to be pieced together right here in the Motor City.

The elite car brand, based in Modena, Italy, plans to build its first sport-utility vehicle at Chrysler Group LLC's Jefferson North assembly plant, said a person familiar with the matter. A concept version of the model, which will be based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, is due to be unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show next month, said the person, who declined to be identified before the official announcement.

The American-made Maserati SUV is a product of the integration between Fiat and Chrysler. Sergio Marchionne, who runs both carmakers, aims to expand Maserati and sister brand Alfa Romeo by drawing on Fiat and Chrysler's combined size to boost profit. The strategy mimics Volkswagen AG (VOW)'s blend of volume brands and high-margin luxury nameplates that's helped Audi generate more than 40 percent of the group's earnings from less than 20 percent of sales.

Since the Grand Cherokee got a stylish update, we don't expect Maserati to have much difficulty in making it look even better. Also, whatever motivation lies under the hood should make great noises and provide more than suitable power.

Fiat SpA's Maserati, the maker of the $120,250 Quattroporte driven by rock star Bono, is betting that Italian luxury can also be a made-in-Detroit SUV.

News Source [ Bloomberg ]

Published on August 04, 2011

Chrysler Canada posted its best July sales in the automaker's history, with sales up five per cent last month at 23,385 compared to 22,319 in July 2010.

These figures were boosted by a number of factors including an increase in sales of the Brampton-built Chrysler 300 sedan.

Combined, the 300 and the Chrysler 200 model recorded a 66 per cent increase in sales last month versus July 2010.

 "In a market that remains tougher than a cheap steak, we were able to produce our highest retail sales in more than three years," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO ? Dodge Brand and head of U.S. Sales. "I think that statistic is the ultimate testament to the progress we have made with our product in the areas of fuel economy, quality and design."

July marks the 16th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains, according to the company.

Also contributing significantly to the July sales gain was the new 2012 Fiat 500 city car. The Fiat brand registered a 68 per cent increase compared with the previous month of June 2011.

The Italian outfit gained control of Chrysler as part of the U.S. automaker's 2009 bankruptcy reorganization.

In July, the Italian automaker gained a 53.3 per cent in Chrysler after paying off loans provided by the U.S., Canadian and Ontario governments.

News Source [Brampton Guardian ]

Published Tuesday July 19, 2011

Photo credit: ramtrucks.com

Fuelled by a growing construction sector and customers seeking fuelefficient alternatives, Chrysler LLC has overtaken Ford Motor Co. as the top year-to-date seller of light trucks in Canada.

According to a report released by Scotia Capital Inc., Chrysler sold more pickups, minivans and sport utility vehicles in June than any of its rivals and that allowed the automaker to wrest the top spot away from Ford in the first half of this year.

"It's also a combination of consumer-driven sales and a desire for smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles," said Carlos Gomes, an economist with Scotia Capital.

"The Jeep brand is doing extremely well for Chrysler, with year-to-date sales up about 25 per cent and pickup sales up about 18 per cent.

"Chrysler has out-performed Ford in that segment and it has resulted in stronger sales in a very important segment for Chrysler."

Gopmes also said consumers are opting for crossovers for practical, fuel-efficiency reasons and the construction sector is boosting pickup sales.

Sales of the Dodge Journey, which is smaller than a traditional SUV and uses less gasoline, increased more than Ford's Escape and General Motors' Chevy Equinox, according to Scotia Capital.

Gomes also said that high fuel prices have led consumers to move towards compact cars and car-based SUVs because of their fuel efficiency.

"The market, as a whole, seems to be moving in that direction in Canada so it appears to me as if this development has legs," said Gomes.

According to Scotia Capital, lighttruck sales through the first six months of the year increased more than twice as fast as Canada's industry average over the same period a year ago.

In the past 18 months, about 85 per cent of Chrysler's sales have been generated by this segment.

According to Chrysler, the Journey, Dodge Grand Caravan, Ram pickups and Jeep Wrangler SUVs all had their best-ever June sales in Canada last month.

It's the latest in a string of good news for Chrysler which includes positive vehicle reviews from Consumer Reports and improving initial quality rankings from J.D. Power & Associates.

"These types of positive reviews are a major factor when it comes to consumer perception and confidence," said Gomes. "Consumers who might have shied away from Chrysler in the past are giving the company's product lineup a closer look."

Published Friday June 17, 2011

Even though American models like the Ford Focus and Chevy Cruze are flourishing in the US market, the Dodge Caliber has never received a great deal of respect ? a problem Chrysler hopes to fix that when they unveil the next generation of the Caliber at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The replacement/new version of the Dodge Caliber and Chrysler PT Cruiser were originally slated for mid-2012 and according to Wards Auto ? at least the Dodge version is on track and it will meet the world at Cobo Hall next January at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. There is no real information available including what the new models would be called but rumors suggest that it will be based on Fiat's C-Evo platform. This is the current platform of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta (shown on the right) ? a sporty, sleek 5-door hatchback that could make for a great starting point for the small car class in which Chrysler and Dodge could both use some major help.

The Chrysler PT Cruiser has been gone for quite some time now and while the Dodge Caliber is alive, it isn't doing all that well. The current Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger sedans are both doing well but with the early popularity of the new Ford Focus, there is clearly a market for a C-segment 5-door with some European flare. Take the form of the Giulietta, enlarge it to offer similar dimensions to the Avenger and 200, pack it with the 283 horsepower Pentastar V6 and you have yourself one amazing hot hatch that could fill the void created by the ending of the PT Cruiser and the lackluster sales of the current Dodge Caliber.

Again, it seems that only the Dodge version of the new 5-door hatchback is confirmed for the 2012 Detroit Auto Show but it would certainly make for a grand stage to introduce a re-emergence into a segment where the whole company could really use some help.

News source: [TorqueNews ]

Published Tuesday June 28, 2011

The Chrysler brand's 2011 Super Bowl commercial "Born of Fire" was honored with five awards at the Cannes Lions 58th International Festival of Creativity held in Cannes, France. Four "Gold Lions" were awarded to the brand for Best Direction, Best Use of Music, Best Script and Best Automotive Commercial. The brand also took home a "Bronze Lion" for Best Editing. Cannes Lions is the world's leading celebration of creativity in communications where over 24,000 entries from all over the world are showcased and judged. Chrysler brand's national advertising campaign was created in partnership with Wieden+Kennedy of Portland, Ore.

"The Chrysler Brand is humbled to be awarded with such a prestigious honor at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO ? Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for Marketing, Chrysler Group LLC. "The 'Born of Fire' commercial and the 'Imported from Detroit' campaign describes the comeback of the Chrysler brand and truly defines American luxury. The Chrysler brand team would like to thank all of our partners who helped us to create such an impactful campaign. However, the true honor should go to the hard-working and determined employees of Chrysler Group and the people of Detroit who served as the inspiration for this campaign and gave us the backdrop to create something truly amazing."

"Born of Fire" debuted at the 2011 Super Bowl and was designed to generate a conversation about the Chrysler brand and the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan. The two-minute commercial, which was also a Super Bowl first, ignited a spark throughout the United States, as many felt a connection to the attitude and work ethic portrayed in the scenes and narration. The spot reflects where the brand is headed and pays tribute to its industrial roots. While the commercial focused on Detroit, in many ways, it encapsulated the spirit of the country and the comeback of the Chrysler brand and Chrysler Group.

The Chrysler brand chose internationally known Detroiter, Eminem and his song "Lose Yourself" because the lyrics speak to the ability to do anything we set our mind to and that failure is not an option. The Chrysler brand, the company and its employees have adopted the principle that failure is not an option.

Born of Fire also revealed the tagline for the brand, "Imported from Detroit," created to convey the message that one does not have to cross an ocean to obtain luxury ? it's available right here and evident in the Chrysler brand product lineup.

Earlier this year, the Chrysler brand introduced "Imported from Detroit" merchandise on the brand's website. The collection features an array of products with the "Imported from Detroit" logo which represents the hardworking spirit captured and celebrated in the Chrysler brand's Super Bowl commercial. In keeping with the spirit in which the logo was created, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of "Imported from Detroit" merchandise found on Chrysler.com will go to four Detroit-area charities.

Source: [Chrysler LTD ]

Published Wednesday June 29, 2011

Barack Obama toured the Chrysler Stamping Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich. (Photo: Jae C. Hong/Associated Press)

The readers of Diversity/Careers in Engineering & Information Technology magazine have named Chrysler Group to the magazine's "Best Companies For Diversity" list for 2011.  This annual reader survey identifies employers of technical professionals in the U.S. the magazine's readers believe "are doing the best work promoting diversity and supporting women and minorities, work/life balance and supplier diversity."

The readers' choices were based on their perceptions, formed by their own experiences, their conversations with others and what they'd read about the employers.  Readers were asked to affirm the status of employers that have been recognized as Best Diversity Companies in previous reader surveys conducted by the magazine, and were given the opportunity to include new employers "whose diversity initiatives were particularly striking."

This was the first time since the Best Diversity Companies Readers Survey was launched five years ago that Chrysler Group was selected.  The readers who took part in the survey were diverse, college-educated technical professionals and students that included women, African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian Americans, veterans, and people with disabilities.

"At Chrysler Group, our commitment to diversity is enterprise-wide and comprehensive," said Lisa J. Wicker, Head, Talent Acquisitions, Global Diversity and Compliance, Chrysler Group LLC.  "It is gratifying that our efforts to build a diverse and inclusive work culture is being recognized by a wide range of technical professionals and students who may consider Chrysler Group an excellent career destination today and in the future."

Diversity/Careers will publish the "Best Companies" list in its June/July issue.

"The Best Companies For Diversity Readers Survey  indicates how well companies are getting their diversity messages across," said Roberta Renard, Publisher, Diversity/Careers in Engineering & Information Technology magazine.  "Chrysler Group can be very proud that Diversity/Careers readers recognize the Company's efforts to support diversity and communicate its vision, values and accomplishments with a diverse community comprised of technical professionals and students."

About Chrysler Group's Leadership Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Chrysler historically has been a leader in promoting diversity throughout its enterprise. The Company was named one of the "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers" by Working Mother magazine 12 times, and has been recognized five times by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation as one of the country's leading corporations supporting diversity and inclusion. In 2009 and 2010, Chrysler was named to HispanicBusiness magazine's prestigious Diversity Elite 60, for implementing strategies to reach more Hispanic customers and to pursue more business with minority- and Hispanic-owned suppliers.  Since 1983, Chrysler has purchased more than $43 billion from minority-owned companies.

Early in 2010, CEO Sergio Marchionne assumed the role as executive sponsor of Chrysler's Global Diversity Council and reaffirmed the commitment of Chrysler's leadership team to the values and principles of diversity. "Culture is the fabric that holds organizations together. It is not just an ingredient for success; it is the essence of success itself," Marchionne wrote. "This is why my leadership team and I are committed to creating an atmosphere where all of our people feel respected and valued, because every person plays an important role in shaping our future, including employees, our supply base, our marketing and our dealer network. Chrysler Group LLC and its people have a future with promise. We will reach the full measure of that promise only as one, united diverse team."

In March 2011, the editors of DiversityInc magazine named Chrysler Group to the magazine's 2011 list of "Top 50 Companies for Diversity." This coveted annual benchmark is comprised of companies the magazine's editors believe are diversity-management leaders. This was the fifth year since the list was established in 2001 that Chrysler has been included.

In April 2011, Chrysler Group was named among the nation's "Top Supporters" of Engineering Programs of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, recognizing the Company's efforts in developing, recruiting and hiring talented students pursuing technical careers at the nation's minority-serving institutions.

source [ PRNewswire]

Published Thursday June 23, 2011


Chrysler Group LLC, the U.S. automaker operated by Fiat SpA, wants to expand its dealer network in China by 39 percent over the next two to three years.

The automaker has 127 dealerships covering about 60 percent of the market in China, Mike Manley, head of Chrysler's international operations, said today. He wants to add 50 within two to three years and hopes to double the number in more than five years, he said.

"There are still big chunks of the market that we don't have dealerships in," Manley told reporters at a Chrysler event in Chelsea, Michigan. "We need to expand and grow."

The effort is part of Chrysler's drive to increase the automaker's Chrysler and Jeep brands outside North America. Auburn Hills, Michigan-based Chrysler Group's sales outside the continent in May rose 17 percent compared with the same month last year, Chrysler has said.

Jeep sales outside North America rose 50 percent in May, helped by completion of a dealer restructuring in Europe, Manley said. Europe sales should continue to grow this year now that new franchise contracts have been signed, he said.

"Advanced dealer orders on Grand Cherokee and Compass have been phenomenal," he said. "I think we're set for a good September."

Fiat is buying the U.S. government's remaining stake in Chrysler from the 2009 bailout that made Sergio Marchionne the chief executive officer of both automakers. Turin, Italy-based Fiat 's holding will rise to 52 percent on a fully diluted basis after the transaction.
Compass SUV

Chrysler will begin selling the Compass sport-utility vehicle in China in the next two to three months, Manley said.

The company expects full-year sales of the Compass to reach 8,000 to 10,000 in China, he said. Chrysler wants to increase its China sales to 40,000 this year from 23,428 last year.

In September or October, Manley plans to travel to China to hold a meeting with potential investors in dealerships, he said.

Chrysler is expected to sell "a minimum" of 500,000 vehicles in the Asia-Pacific region by 2014, Marchionne said in a conference call on Jan. 27. Chrysler sales in the region rose to 39,688 last year, a 17 percent increase from 2009, Chrysler had previously said.

Fiat is in the process of building its first China factory in a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co.

The key to Chrysler's volume growth in China will be building vehicles locally, Manley said. The automaker is exploring working with Fiat and its joint-venture partner, he said.

"If we really want to be strong, we have to localize," he said.

News Source [Bloomberg ]

The Sterling Heights Assembly Plant is closing.

That is what everyone at the Chrysler Group LLC plant heard two years ago.

"Did we think it would ever survive? No," said Tim Bressler executive administrative assistant to General Holiefield, UAW vice president and director of the Chrysler Department today. "I don't think back in 2009 anybody ever thought Sterling Heights would have a future."

But, oh how things have changed for the Auburn Hills automaker since emerging from bankruptcy two years ago.

Today ? Bressler, along with 100 or so Chrysler employees, UAW members and politicians, celebrated the start of a $850 million investment at the Sterling Heights plant, 38111 Van Dyke, and others.
Chrysler-Sterling-Heights-paint-shop.jpgView full sizeCourtesy imageRendering of the new $850 million paint shop at the Sterling Heights plant, 38111 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights.

"SHAP was scheduled to close by the end of 2010 as part of the court-approved reorganization of Chrysler," said Fred Goedtel, Chrysler vice president and head of assembly operation, at the groundbreaking celebration today. "But now, 24 months later, we are celebrating a remarkable success story."

The previously announced investment is for a 500,000 square-foot paint shop, along with retooling at two area stamping plants in Sterling Heights and Warren.

Tyree Minner, plant manager, said the shop - expected to be completed by 2013 - ensures work for SHAP's 2,300 employees.

"This is a very exciting day for all of us who are here to celebrate the start of a project that ensures the long-term viability of this plant and promises a bright future ahead for the 2,300 employees we have here at Sterling Heights," he said.
Sterling Heights mayor thanks Chrysler for $850M investment for new paint shop Sterling Heights mayor thanks Chrysler for $850M investment for new paint shop Sterling Heights Mayor Richard Notte, a former UAW member, talks about construction of Chrysler Group LLC's $850 million investment at its Sterling Heights Assembly Plant. Watch video

"That's the biggest investment our city has ever gotten," said Sterling Heights Mayor Richard Notte, a former UAW member, during the ceremony today. "We appreciate that."

Notte, along with U.S. Rep. Gary Peters and Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, were the elected officials to speak at the event with Minner, Goedtel and Bressler.

Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne, along with Holiefield, did not attend today's event because they are out of the country.

Since June 2009, Chrysler has invested nearly $3.2 billion in its U.S. facilities.

News Source [MichiganAutoNews ]

Published Wednesday, June 8 2011

Ever since Chrysler's "Imported from Detroit" ad campaign kicked off during this year's Super Bowl the ads have been the talk of the town. The first ad, featuring Detroit native Marshall Mathers, otherwise known as Eminem and the new Chrysler 200 stood out to many because it symbolized how many Americans felt: we may be down, but like Chrysler we can rise from the ashes and beat back the world. The commercial drew an emotional response and got people talking about Chrysler and what was coming next. Well, next is here. Chrysler just kicked off the next part of its "Imported from Detroit" campaign titled "Good Things" featuring Los Angeles native Dr. Dre and the new Chrysler 300.

"Good Things" starts with similar imagery to the original "Imported from Detroit" commercial. The backdrop here is Los Angeles at night, with Dr. Dre cruising in a new 300S (complete with Dre Beats subwoofer, of course) driving past various backdrops around the city. As Dr. Dre cruises through the city, the voice over talks about luxury, American style saying, "Some people say good things come to those who wait. Truth is, good things come to those who work."

That directly follows the themes set in the first "Imported from Detroit" ad, as well as what Chrysler and Lancia CEO Oliver Francois said in a sit down interview with us, "The 300, as you may know is the Chrysler version of American luxury. What makes a big difference, I think, between American luxury and European luxury is European luxury is kind of ostentation, showing a privilege. American luxury is about the reward of hard work. I think luxury in America is a right, while in Europe it is a privilege." The idea behind "Good Things" definitely follows what Francois said. It goes out of its way to distinguish itself as a more blue-collar luxury, a luxury you can aspire to and even afford. It appeal s to the American dream, it's as simple as that.

Click here to view the video.

News Source: [Motortrend ]