mkrishnan
Aug 17, 2009, 09:29 PM
http://www.freep.com/article/20090817/BUSINESS01/90817084/1318/Chrysler-to-build-key-Fiat-minicar-at-Mexican-plant
Looks like the Toluca assembly plant (most likely) is going to build it.
Chrysler Group LLC, now being run by Italian automaker Fiat Group SpA, is planning to build the Fiat 500 minicar at a factory in Mexico, according to a person briefed on the company’s plans.
The automaker also is considering building a compact car in the U.S. that could be larger than the 500, according to the person, who did not want to be identified because the plans have not been made public.
Chrysler spokesman Gualberto Ranieri declined to comment today. But news of the Fiat 500 decision disappointed several members of the United Auto Workers who had hoped that the minicar would be made at a U.S. factory because of UAW cost-saving concessions and the fact that Chrysler has received $15.5 billion in U.S. government aid.
Nothing juicy yet, though, like whether it will actually carry a Fiat badge (I don't think I'd touch it with Chrysler or Dodge branding) or whether it would have a diesel option in NA or anything interesting like that.
Looks like the Toluca assembly plant (most likely) is going to build it.
Chrysler Group LLC, now being run by Italian automaker Fiat Group SpA, is planning to build the Fiat 500 minicar at a factory in Mexico, according to a person briefed on the company’s plans.
The automaker also is considering building a compact car in the U.S. that could be larger than the 500, according to the person, who did not want to be identified because the plans have not been made public.
Chrysler spokesman Gualberto Ranieri declined to comment today. But news of the Fiat 500 decision disappointed several members of the United Auto Workers who had hoped that the minicar would be made at a U.S. factory because of UAW cost-saving concessions and the fact that Chrysler has received $15.5 billion in U.S. government aid.
Nothing juicy yet, though, like whether it will actually carry a Fiat badge (I don't think I'd touch it with Chrysler or Dodge branding) or whether it would have a diesel option in NA or anything interesting like that.
