Jeep Grand Cherokee platform could underpin Maserati crossover
Nov 8, 2010 | 04:01 PM
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Jeep Grand Cherokee platform could underpin Maserati crossover Sales of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee are doing so well that Chrysler Group LLC is looking at using it as the base for new utility vehicles for partner Fiat SpA. Sergio Marchionne, chief executive of both Chrysler and Fiat, said today that he is looking at expanding the use of the platform — which refers to the underpinnings of the vehicle — within Chrysler as well as within Fiat.
All versions would be assembled at the Jefferson North assembly plant in Detroit that is running with two shifts but is prepared to add a third when demand warrants the extra production. Jefferson North has added trial production of the seven-passenger Dodge Durango SUV that goes on sale next month.
Marchionne praised the quality of the vehicles being assembled in Detroit. "I'm delighted with the performance of the Jefferson plant here in Michigan," he said on a call with investors today to discuss third-quarter earning. Marchionne said he expects the Durango to launch with the same quality levels.
There has long been speculation about an Alfa Romeo version of the SUV, but Marchionne talked about the Fiat and even Maserati brands potentially adding SUVs based on the Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee launched in June to critical success. Sales in October were up 291 percent from a year ago.
"I've never seen a vehicle have this kind of support," Marchionne said. Chrysler is now shipping Grand Cherokees with diesel engines for sale in Europe.
From The Detroit News: Grand Cherokee platform may be used on new Fiats | detnews.com | The Detroit News
All versions would be assembled at the Jefferson North assembly plant in Detroit that is running with two shifts but is prepared to add a third when demand warrants the extra production. Jefferson North has added trial production of the seven-passenger Dodge Durango SUV that goes on sale next month.
Marchionne praised the quality of the vehicles being assembled in Detroit. "I'm delighted with the performance of the Jefferson plant here in Michigan," he said on a call with investors today to discuss third-quarter earning. Marchionne said he expects the Durango to launch with the same quality levels.
There has long been speculation about an Alfa Romeo version of the SUV, but Marchionne talked about the Fiat and even Maserati brands potentially adding SUVs based on the Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee launched in June to critical success. Sales in October were up 291 percent from a year ago.
"I've never seen a vehicle have this kind of support," Marchionne said. Chrysler is now shipping Grand Cherokees with diesel engines for sale in Europe.
From The Detroit News: Grand Cherokee platform may be used on new Fiats | detnews.com | The Detroit News
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