2007 Chrysler Nassau concept
Tuesday, March 13th, 20072007 Chrysler Nassau concept. Charles V. Tines / The Detroit News
Filed under: Car Buying, LA Auto Show, Budget, Hatchback, Chrysler, Fiat
Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Chrysler is set to debut its American-spec Fiat 500 at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show with the first examples being sold near the end of 2010. During the 2011 calendar year, Chrysler hopes to sell 50,000 of the Mini Cooper fighters, including the 500 Cabrio, which goes on sale sometime in 2011.
Built in Toluca, Mexico, the 500 will be sold through a network of 165 dealers across the United States, mostly in cities that have the largest small car markets. Will Chrysler be able to move 50,000 of the new Fiats? That's mildly ambitious, since the Mini brand only moves about 50,000 Coopers annually. Still, consider our fingers crossed.
Gallery: Fiat 500
[Source: Associated Press via Google]
Report: Fiat wants to sell 50,000 500s in the U.S. through 165 dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Fiat
Two automaker bankruptcies and a massive downturn in sales have conspired to wipe out hundreds of auto dealerships, and Chrysler retailers have been especially hard hit, as the stores who haven't been forced to close are faced with an aging product lineup and very little foot traffic.
That isn't stopping 400 of Team Pentastar's best remaining dealers from looking into expanding their empires with a Fiat dealership. The Detroit News reports dealers flying into Detroit Sunday morning to watch a sales pitch by Fiat executives with the goal of getting 200 of those dealers to start a stand-alone Fiat store. The dealers will see future Fiat products, as well as speeches from Laura Soave, who heads branding for Fiat in North America, and Chrysler fleet and network boss Peter Grady.
Dealers are waiting on franchise agreement and financial obligation details before committing to Fiat, but interest in one of the 200 retail outlets isn't enough to get approved. Fiat will award franchises based on their current sales performance, but those dealers must also have a stand-alone store with dedicated staffing and an established marketing plan. Those dealers will have only the Fiat 500 to sell for a good long while, but Fiat and Alfa Romeo plan to sell an array of sedans, hatchbacks, crossovers and even a roadster by 2012 - supposedly. Dealers have until September 22 to apply for a dealership, after which Fiat will award the dealerships in October.
[Source: Detroit News | Image: Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty Images]
Report: 400 Chrysler dealers meeting in Detroit to hear Fiat pitch originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Fiat
Alfa Romeo Spyder concept by Pininfarina - Click above for high-res image gallery
Fiat is a few months away from awarding 200 Fiat-branded retail outlets to select Chrysler dealers. The first vehicle those new stores will sell will be the Fiat 500, and there won't be any Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep-branded models in sight. But that doesn't mean Fiat will have those dealerships to themselves for very long.
According to Automotive News, company CEO Sergio Marchionne announced at an event in Toledo, Ohio that those Fiat stores will also sell Alfa Romeo vehicles by late 2012. Marchionne has already announced that the first Alfa to hit North American shores will be the Giulia sedan and wagon, followed at some point by a midsize SUV, a subcompact, a hatchback and even a roadster. That's a lot of Alfa, and the Italian automaker will need all of those models to be at least moderately successful if it has any shot at reaching its lofty goal of 500,000 Alfa Romeo sales by 2014.
Before we get to 2012 and the return of Alfa Romeo on our shores, we need to get a clearer picture of what Fiat's plans are for the U.S. AN reports that the Fiat forecast will clear up soon, as the Turin, Italy-based automaker plans to educate Chrysler dealers during an August 30th briefing.
Gallery: Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta by Pininfarina
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]
200 Chrysler dealerships to sell Alfa Romeo by late 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler, Earnings/Financials, Fiat
Sergio Marchionne harbors no illusions about Chrysler being in the black for 2010. The Detroit News reports the Chrysler chairman and Fiat CEO stated flat out that a net profit in 2010 isn't likely during an August 23rd tour of a Toledo Jeep plant. Despite recent reports of operating profits from Chrysler, there's still tremendous cost associated with loan interest payments and a lineup of moribund product to turn over. Add to the mix the reintroduction of Fiat automobiles to the U.S. market, and you've got an outlook that's best described as "challenging."
Still, Marchionne told U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, also in attendance, that Chrysler is "ahead of plan" during the tour. That plan includes paying back its $12 billion in governmental loans and launching the Fiat 500 in North America. A meeting on August 30th will lay out the requirements for dealers interested in Fiat stores, and Marchionne reports strong interest.
Dealers that choose to take on Fiat must create standalone showrooms for the brand, requiring significant investment, though there's little overlap between Fiat and Chrysler product lines to muddy sales efforts. Other rumors that Marchionne dodged were talk of a Jeep Liberty-based SUV to be built in Toledo, and whether or not an Alfa Romeo sedan will be built in Brampton, Ontario.
[Source: Detroit News]
Marchionne: Chrysler profit not likely for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Sedan, Chrysler, Dodge, Police/Emergency
2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit - Click above to see this image in high-resolution
Ford and General Motors have already made big splashes this year by introducing their next-generation police pursuit vehicles, and while the Taurus- and Caprice-based cruisers will surely be stiff competition for one another, Chrysler now presents its police fleet offering, the 2011 Charger Pursuit.
The Pursuit is based on the new-for-2011 Dodge Charger that we only recently saw almost completely uncovered in spy shots, and will be offered with either Chrysler's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 or 5.7-liter Hemi V8. (What, no Pursuit SRT8?) Naturally, this Charger has been modified to be better suited for police duty, and includes things like heavy-duty anti-lock brakes, front and rear stabilizer bars, a two-mode police-specific stability control system and 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels.
Inside, the front cabin has been modified to better serve as a mobile command center, and Chrysler is offering a police interface module for easy integration of existing computer equipment. We aren't sure if this is similar to what Ford has done with the Taurus Police Interceptor, and we'll have a better idea when we get more images and details about the Pursuit, likely to be released after the civilian Charger is fully unveiled.
Police forces will be able to order the 2011 Charger Pursuit starting next month. Follow the jump to read the full press release.
Gallery: Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger
[Source: Chrysler]
Continue reading Chrysler releases details on 2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit police car
Chrysler releases details on 2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit police car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Chrysler, Dodge, Police/Emergency
Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger on the set of 'The Fast and the Furious Five' - Click above for high-res image gallery
Thanks to Autoblog reader Jose Rosario, we can now put the speculation to rest - the 2011 Dodge Charger will indeed receive a new full-width taillamp treatment that echoes that of its two-door Challenger kin. Rosario informs us that these spy shots were taken in Puerto Rico on the set of The Fast and the Furious Five, the latest installment of the durable Vin Diesel street racing franchise.
According to Rosario, the filming appears to be using at least one prototype of the new Charger, "because it has the sides of the current model but has the new front and they added the new rear which light up all in LED lights." The film crew is also using more complete 2011 models, all of which are dressed up as police cars. The cars were used in a chase scene in which two current-model in a matte black finish pull a bank vault along the street, pursued by the Brazilian police cars (Even though the filming is taking place in Puerto Rico, the movie is set in Brazil). Rosario sadly reports that the last scene filmed the day these images were taken were of a current model Charger rear-ending a 2011 model.
Rosario managed to not only get shots of the new taillamps and well-integrated dual exhausts, but also some shots of the front end, which he says looks "more aggressive," including more snout-like grille, new hood, subtly but completely redone headlamps and a revised lower fascia.
As if that weren't enough, our man in PR also scored a shot of the 2011 model's interior, which reveals a much more cohesive look. A new three-spoke steering wheel with redundant audio controls beckons, as does what appears to be a start button. The gauge binnacle eschews the four nacelles of the current car for a more unified cluster that's marked out by a liberal helping of silvery trim and vertically oriented air vents bookend a new infotainment screen. Immediately below the screen, the Charger maintains its simple three-knob HVAC controls (albeit redone), and a step down from there is the CD slot. In the center console, a gated PRNDL surrounded by what looks like faux carbon-fiber trim. All-in-all, it looks like a massive improvement over the dour and workmanlike instrument panel of the outgoing Dodge.
What do you think - will the reborn Dodge Charger and its Chrysler 300 twin offer enough changes to rekindle your interest? Check out our images in the high-res gallery below, and then drop your fellow reader a line in Comments. Thanks for the pics, Rosario!
Gallery: Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger
Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger revealed on set of The Fast and the Furious Five originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Aug 2010 22:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Classics, Chrysler, Dodge, Misc. Auto Shows
2010 Woodward: Chrysler display - Click above for high-res image gallery
First thing we did after arriving at the 2010 Woodward Dream Cruise was head out to the various automaker displays on Woodward Avenue. And, as you can see, that includes Chrysler. Included amongst the normal and expected 300s, Wranglers and Ram Trucks, we spotted a couple gems that are well worth your consideration.
Take, for instance, this Ram-bodied monster truck. Naturally, it's crushing an import from the '80s... We also got a kick out of the little slot car racing track set up to keep the kiddies (and kiddies at heart) happy in spite of the rain. Speaking of which, sorry about all the drops on the cars... sadly, unavoidable.
We went ahead and assembled the best shots from Chrysler's officially confiscated parking lot. See the lot of 'em in our high-res image gallery below, and of course, stay tuned for lots more coverage from the Woodward Dream Cruise.
Check out our livestream for a live view of Woodward as the classics drive by.
Gallery: 2010 Woodward: Chrysler display
Photos Copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski
2010 Woodward: Chrysler represents! originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Aug 2010 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Ford, GM, Toyota, UAW/Unions
Drive a non-General Motors, Ford or Chrysler product? Don't try to park it any lot owned by the United Auto Workers. That has been the stance for many years, and new UAW President Bob King is making it known that he will follow that rule to the letter, regardless of situation. The Detroit News reports that Kansas City Business Journal reporter James Dornbrook learned this lesson the hard way as he was asked to remove his Toyota Camry from Local 249's parking lot by an unidentified member. The scribe later wrote that his Camry was built at Toyota's Georgetown, Kentucky plant and that the popular midsize sedan contains more domestic content than the Ford F-150.
Dornbrook may have a point, but King is standing strong on the union-made-only policy. The UAW leader wrote a long letter to Dornbrook - which the KCBJ published - accusing transplant automakers of refusing workers the right to organize. King then added that transplants have accepted millions in tax cuts to build factories in the U.S. while at the same time jeopardizing middle-class jobs. The UAW and its 300,000 members, meanwhile, still account for two-thirds of U.S. auto assembly jobs.
While "union only" parking rules are the exact sort of thing that has many Americans rolling their eyes at the UAW, Wayne State University labor professor David Reynolds suggests that the current economic recession actually makes the public a bit more sympathetic to the UAW's situation, adding "there seems to be a better understanding of buying products and supporting companies that benefit local communities."
[Source: The Detroit News, Kansas City Business Journal | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]
Report: UAW's King holds the line on foreign car ban on union property originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Chrysler, Dodge
Take a close look at the entire lineup of 2009 and 2010 Dodge cars and trucks and you'll notice one thing they all have in common: the Dodge emblem is represented as a Ram's head. So what's the problem? While you could spend hours debating the merits of its recent strategy, the Chrysler Mothership has chosen to separate the Dodge brand into separate car and truck entities, and the newly launched Ram Truck brand will soldier on using that same Ram Head. Which means Dodge needs a new identity.The first step Chrysler took to create a new corporate identity for Dodge was a new logo that will be used in marketing materials, but it won't serve as an actual emblem on the vehicles. There's plenty of online speculation as to what Dodge will use as its next emblem, or if it will in fact choose to go... um, naked. So far, all the spy shots of 2011 Dodge models have been seen sans logo or emblem, sporting only the Dodge name spelled out with individual chrome lettering.
So, what does all of this mean? Well... we really have no idea. But we're interested in hearing what you all have to say. Take a good look at the potential new emblem on the right and then take part in our entirely unscientific poll below.
View Poll
[Source: Allpar.com]
Will the 2011 Charger wear a new Dodge emblem? [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: SUV, Crossover, Chrysler, Dodge
2011 Dodge Durango teasers - Click above for high-res image gallery
Only days after our readers stumbled upon Dodge's test site for the 2011 Durango, the official word has been given from Chrysler that its new unibody SUV/crossover will, in fact, wear the Durango nameplate. As you'll recall, this new Dodge sport-ute was rumored to serve as a rebirth for the Magnum moniker, but it appears that those plans - if indeed they ever existed - have been scrapped.
The 2011 Durango shares the vast majority of its architecture from the new Jeep Grand Cherokee (which isn't a bad point to work from), and we expect both the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and 5.7-liter Hemi V8 to be available underhood. Curiously, Dodge refers to the new Durango as a "three-row performance SUV" in its press release, which leads us to believe that Chrysler might have another trick or two up its sleeve. Durango SRT8? Makes sense, especially since the new 6.4-liter Hemi is slated for use in the Grand Cherokee. We also note that Dodge doesn't appear to be playing up the Durango as an off-road model, either, at least where badging is concerned - instead of proclaiming the new model available with four-wheel drive, they've added an all-wheel drive badge (as seen above).
For now, you can see plenty of teaser images of the 2011 Durango in the gallery below, and Chrysler has even provided a slideshow of images for your viewing pleasure after the jump. Expect the full details on the new Durango to be released in the next few weeks.
Gallery: 2011 Dodge Durango Teaser Website
[Source: Chrysler]
Continue reading Officially Official: Dodge keeps Durango nameplate for 2011 [w/video]
Officially Official: Dodge keeps Durango nameplate for 2011 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Minivan/Van, Chrysler, Dodge, Rumormill
2008 Dodge Caravan R/T concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Let's include this one in the highly improbably file. The Mopar specialists at Allpar.com are reporting that the previously reported 2011 Dodge Caravan R/T minivan could come powered by a V8 engine. Along with most of the Chrysler lineup, the Town and Country and Caravan will be getting a substantial mid-cycle refresh in the coming months. While the main focus will be on upgraded interiors, the minivans are also getting new powertrains with the fresh Pentastar V6 replacing the tired old 3.8- and 4.0-liter V6s.
However, putting a V8 into the Grand Caravan seems like a stretch at best. Chrysler's own 4.7- and 5.7-liter V8s almost certainly won't fit in the vans, which are designed around 60-degree V6 engines. That leaves an engine out of the Fiat lineup as the only option. Unfortunately, the only V8s at Fiat reside under the hoods of Maseratis and Ferraris (along with the late Alfa Romeo 8C). Aside from the fact that these probably wouldn't fit either, none have ever been configured for a transverse application and they would all be enormously expensive.
As intriguing as the idea of a 400+hp Ferrari-powered Grand Caravan might be, it makes about as much sense as a Bentley-powered Volkswagen Golf. Wait a second...
Gallery: Dodge Caravan R/T concept
[Source: Allpar]
Rumormilll: Ferrari-powered 2011 Dodge Caravan R/T coming? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Car Buying, Chrysler, Fiat
Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Chrysler Group is only a few months away from bringing the Fiat brand back to the United States, starting with the launch of the too-cute 500 later this year. The automaker will be holding a Fiat Experience event in Detroit at the end of August, and around 600 dealers from around the country have been invited to attend.
These 600 dealers are located in cities where Chrysler is planning to have Fiat franchises - a total of 119 different markets around the country. The Fiat Experience program will give dealers a detailed overview of Chrysler's exact plans for the brand in the U.S., and dealers will be allowed to submit proposals for snagging a Fiat franchise through mid-September.
No, not all of these 600 dealers will be approved for Fiat franchises, and Chrysler will be announcing its final list of Fiat locations in the fourth quarter of 2010. Hit the jump to see the current list of market considerations to find out if a Fiat dealer might be heading to a city near you.
Gallery: Fiat 500
[Source: Chrysler]
Continue reading Chrysler chooses 600 dealerships for possible Fiat franchises
Chrysler chooses 600 dealerships for possible Fiat franchises originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Podcasts, Etc., Government/Legal, Safety, Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Lexus, Lincoln, Earnings/Financials
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Chris, Sam and Dan come back for Episode #190 of the Autoblog Podcast, and this time around we talk about Chrysler's profit announcement, the Top Gear USA trailer, Honda's latest recall, the Buick Verano. We also touch on a Ferrari-based Lancia Stratos tribute and GM's prospects for selling Chevrolet Volts. We kick the ball around on a single question before calling it a night right at the hour mark. Thanks for listening, see you next week!
Autoblog Podcast #190 - Chrysler profit, Top Gear USA and small Buicks
In the Autoblog Garage:
Ford F450 Super Duty
Lexus RX450h
Lincoln MKT
News:
Chrysler Profit Top Gear USA Trailer Buick Verano Lancia Stratos tribute GM says Chevrolet Volt will find buyers Hosts:
Dan Roth, Sam Abuelsamid, Chris Shunk
Runtime: 67:26
Get the podcast:
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Autoblog Podcast #190 - Chrysler profit, Top Gear USA and small Buicks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Ford, GM
Before General Motors and Chrysler entered bankruptcy, the predominant fear was customers wouldn't purchase vehicles from a bankrupt automaker. Those fears turned out to be more or less unfounded, as the market share of the fallen two didn't fluctuate all that much during court proceedings, and both companies have seen sales increases the following year. Automotive News reports that while GM's sales are up 13 percent and Chrysler up 11 percent, the majority of those increases have come courtesy of fleet sales.
The General's fleet sales are reportedly up 53 percent to 400,000 units while Chrysler is up 40 percent to 242,000. GM does point out that its retail sales are up by one percent after the automaker cut four brands from its portfolio, while Chrysler isn't breaking down sales.
GM and Chrysler aren't the only automakers padding sales figures with fleets. So far in 2010, 35 percent of Ford's sales come from bulk buyers, more than the 31 percent at GM, but still less than the 39 percent at Chrysler. But to Ford's credit less, than half of those sales come from rental outfits, where discounts are deeper than they are with government and commercial fleets. Both GM and Chrysler are reportedly pushing two-thirds of its fleet vehicles to rental companies. The only other automakers to top 10 percent in fleet sales are Hyundai (16 percent) and Nissan (15 percent).
So do all these fleet sales spell trouble for GM and Chrysler? Not likely. Retail sales have remained relatively flat over the last year while fleet sales are up across most automakers. Detroit automakers also see higher fleet sales because each produces a large amount of heavy duty trucks and vans, while the overseas competition doesn't compete in those segments. All three Detroit automakers foresee a drop in fleet sales for the rest of 2010, with Chrysler and GM projecting about 25 percent of its sales going to fleets for the year while Ford is shooting for 30 percent.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req. | Image: Chris Hondros/Getty Images]
Report: Fleet sales are behind GM and Chrysler post-bankruptcy resurgence originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Chrysler
The next Chrysler 300 - Click above for high-res image gallery
The next Chrysler 300 has had some chiseling and wedging applied to its current stoic proportions. The perfectly horizontal shoulder line now sweeps up from a lower front end into a shorter decklid. The nearly perpendicular front and rear on the 2010 have also been reshaped, particularly in the rear. Detail-wise, only the mirrors appear to have carried over, with what looks like new headlight hardware in an angled design, LED taillights in back, an integrated exhaust treatment and new rear window glass. Get a closer look in the gallery of high-res photos below while we wait to see what magic has been done to the inside...
Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 Chrysler 300
Spy Shots: 2012 Chrysler 300 is more than a nosejob originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Sedan, Europe, Hatchback, Daimler, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota
According to a report from Auto Motor und Sport, Toyota is considering a partnership with Daimler to build Mercedes-Benz' A- and B-Class sub-compacts on the Japanese automaker's MC platform. The idea is to maximize the efficiency and output of Toyota's European plants, and could also include sharing development costs on each brand's next generation flagships: the Lexus LS and Mercedes S-Class. Daimler has dismissed the report as "speculation," while a Toyota Motor Europe spokesman toed the company line, only saying "It's part of our normal business practice that we regularly talk to other carmakers but there are no specific projects planned at the moment."
[Source: Auto Motor und Sport via Reuters]
REPORT: Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Hybrid, Green, Daimler, Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz/Tesla press conference - Click above for ABG's liveblog coverage
During a press conference held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart this morning, Dr. Thomas Weber, the head of research and development for Mercedes-Benz, announced that Daimler is buying a 10% stake in Tesla Motors. Tesla CEO Elon Musk was also on hand for the announcement. The companies did not specify the amount paid by Daimler, other than it was in the double digit millions. Daimler will be providing Tesla with engineering support and possibly parts that may go into the Model S. Tesla, meanwhile, will continue providing battery packs for the second-generation Smart ED starting later this year. Tesla will also focus on battery pack integration and battery management systems for Daimler going forward.
The deal will also give Tesla access to the automotive lithium ion cells being produced by Daimler's investment in Li-Tec, a joint venture between Evonik and Daimler. Weber announced that Daimler would commence series production of electric Smarts in 2012, with volume projections in the five digits.
Daimler's Prof. Herbert Kohler (who is in charge of e-drive systems at the German automaker) will take up a board seat at Tesla and oversee development at the California company. We live blogged the conference at AutoblogGreen this morning and the official press release is after the jump.
[Source: Daimler]
The deal will also give Tesla access to the automotive lithium ion cells being produced by Daimler's investment in Li-Tec, a joint venture between Evonik and Daimler. Weber announced that Daimler would commence series production of electric Smarts in 2012, with volume projections in the five digits.
Daimler's Prof. Herbert Kohler (who is in charge of e-drive systems at the German automaker) will take up a board seat at Tesla and oversee development at the California company. We live blogged the conference at AutoblogGreen this morning and the official press release is after the jump.
[Source: Daimler]
Continue reading Daimler buys 10% stake in Tesla, will supply parts and engineering
Daimler buys 10% stake in Tesla, will supply parts and engineering originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 May 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Daimler, Earnings/Financials
Hot on the heels of the Chrysler's tentative deal with the UAW to cut the automaker's VEBA obligations, Daimler AG has announced it's finally reached an agreement to unload its remaining stake in Chrysler. According to Daimler's release, the company's 19.9% stake in Chrysler will be redeemed and Daimler write off a $1.5 billion loan which will help (if it can) avoid putting Chrysler into bankruptcy and facilitate the automaker's deal with Fiat. The agreement is likely to reduce Daimler's second-quarter earnings (before interest and taxes) by around $700 million, however, the German giant had already written down its stake in Chrysler last year. The agreement also includes Daimler paying $200 million into Chrysler's pension plans once the agreements are definitive, and another $200 million each year until 2011. All the gritty details are available in the press release below the fold.
[Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]
Continue reading Daimler agrees to give up remaining stake in Chrysler
Daimler agrees to give up remaining stake in Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Daimler, Earnings/Financials
Nerves are frazzled in Stuttgart over the troubles facing Chrysler. Let's not forget that Daimler still has a skin in the Chrysler game, and while everyone natters and frets about whether or not Fiat will prove to be the Savior Of Auburn Hills, execs are also thinking about the worst-case scenario in the halls of Daimler.
According to the Detroit Bureau, Bodo Uebber, Daimler's Chrysler guy, reported recently that concerned shareholders are rightfully nervous, as Daimler could be stuck with a $1 billion liability if Chrysler ist kaput. Unfunded pensions and potential claims from suppliers could result in very bad things for Daimler. Cerberus and the German automaker are also duking it out over whether Chrysler's health was honestly disclosed at the time of the deal, tying up any developments with the remaining 19.9 percent of Chrysler that Daimler still owns. Both Uebber and Dieter Zetsche, Daimler's CEO, are actively trying to unload the company's stake in Chrysler to Cerberus, but predictably, that conversation isn't going anywhere at the moment.
[Source: The Detroit Bureau | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]
REPORT: If Chrysler goes down, it could cost Daimler $1 billion originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Coupe, Budget, Hatchback, Daimler, Smart, Lifestyle
Last October we advised you not to hold your breath for Daimler's Car2Go program to come to America. You can breathe again. If you live in Austin, Texas you'll be able to rent a mild hybrid Smart ForTwo by the minute this fall. Austin was chosen because of its university population and its concern for the environment.
Car2Go makes its fleet available on-demand, with a clear price structure, and you can keep the car as long as you wish. Those in the program access the vehicles by swiping a tag on their driver's licenses over a card reader on the car. As with the pilot program in Ulm, Germany the service will start in Austin with an initial fleet, expected to consist of around 200 Smarts that will be available to city employees first and then expand to public use at the conclusion of a trial period.
Gallery: smart fortwo in Texas and Germany
[Source: Canadian Driver]
Daimler's Car2Go program coming to Austin, Texas this fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Green, Work, Daimler
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Freightliner Innovation Truck
Daimler Trucks North America has used the Mid-America Trucking Show in Kentucky to release its latest concept in commercial-grade hauling. The Innovation Truck concept takes the fuel-saving innovations introduced on the Freightliner Cascadia, already the most aerodynamic of the company's trucks, and turns them up to eleven.
Included in the aero tweaks are rear wheel fairings, underbody panels, a roof deflector and a front air splitter. Further, the side mirrors were replaced with cameras to reduce drag. Once up to speed, the Innovation Truck can lower its ride height using air bladders, further reducing fuel usage. Wireless tire pressure monitoring also sends data to an onboard navigation/infotainment screen in the cabin. Also present on the truck is Freightliner's new RunSmart Predictive Cruise control.
With such a focus on fuel savings, it's not surprising that Daimler has fitted the diesel powerplant with its BlueTec emissions after-treatment system, which injects a urea-based fluid directly into the exhaust to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Lastly, ParkSmart VHAC technology allows the truck's climate control systems to operate without running the truck's engine using electricity from a second bank of batteries.
Daimler says that the Innovation Truck concept is meant to "show our customers what they can expect from us in the near future," so we'll be on the lookout for menacing flat black semi trucks the next time we're headed out for a road trip.
Gallery: Freightliner Innovation Truck
[Source: Daimler]
Continue reading Freightliner unveils big rig concept showcasing future technology
Freightliner unveils big rig concept showcasing future technology originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Budget, Etc., Green, Technology, Daimler, Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery
Times may be tough, but that isn't stopping Daimler from having a bit of expensive-looking fun with its trainees... so long as there's an educational bent to it. What you see before you isn't an artful series of renderings, it's an actual time-warping fuel cell concept dubbed "F-CELL Roadster."
It took a year and more than 150 trainees to create, but the entire project involved using "junior employees", giving the company's up-and-coming employees a creative way to learn how alternative-fuel systems come together.The F-CELL Roadster marries Benz Patent Motor Car stylings with 21st century tech wonderfully, including that legendary vehicle's general aesthetic and proportions, along with old-meets-new technologies like carbon-fiber buckets capped in hand-stitched leather and a drive-by-wire central control joystick.
The centerpiece, of course, is the Roadster's fuel cell powertrain, which has a power rating of 1.2 kilowatts, a top speed of 25 kilometers-per-hour, and a range of 350 kilometers. That means you'll have a long, slow trip, just like those adventuring motorists back at the turn of the century. Official press release posted after the jump.
Gallery: Mercedes-Benz F-CELL Roadster concept
[Source: Mercedes]
Continue reading Mercedes-Benz unveils retrofuturistic F-Cell Roadster built by trainees
Mercedes-Benz unveils retrofuturistic F-Cell Roadster built by trainees originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: SUV, Plants/Manufacturing, Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, Rumormill
Last week, we told you how despite the downturn, Daimler is upping its investment in the state of Michigan, coming to terms with the city of Ann Arbor to build a new hybrid and electric R&D facility. Now, Automotive News is reporting that the automaker is expected to actually expand its Vance, Alabama production plant.
If the rumors are true, the Mercedes-Benz plant (which currently builds GL, M, and R class vehicles) will benefit from a $290 million investment that is to begin within 60 days. The news evidently leaked out after company officials contacted the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority about property and sales tax breaks (which it apparently received).
The expansion news comes at an odd time, as not only has the automaker's sales been flagging in the U.S. (down 20 percent in February year-over-year, admittedly much better than the market plunge of 41.4 percent), but sales of Vance-built SUVs in particular have fallen off, with Benz responding by reducing the plant's workforce.
Automotive News says the expansion effort won't be completed until 2011, but word yet on how much capacity this will give the plant (and what it will be used for) is not yet known.
[Source: Automotive News - subs. req'd]
Rumormill: Mercedes-Benz expected to expand Alabama plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, Middle East
The global auto industry is enduring its worst crisis in decades, and iconic companies with 100-year histories are being pushed to the brink. Luxury automaker Daimler is no different, with Mercedes-Benz sales down 17% in the past quarter and posting a loss of $1.95 billion in the fourth quarter alone. To help alleviate the a major cash crunch, Daimler has sold off 9.1% of the company to Abu Dhabi firm Aabar Investments PJSC. Aabar purchased 96.4 million shares at a 5% discount under the stock price of 21.34 euros. Daimler shares were selling for 45 euros a piece before the rug was pulled out from under global luxury car sales. Both companies consider the partnership to be a long-term investment, as Daimler will need all the help it can get weathering brutal automobile sales slump. The two companies will also collaborate on electric vehicle development and Daimler will build a training center in Abu Dhabi. Thanks for the tip, Abdul!
[Source: Bloomberg | Photo: Torsten Silz/Getty]
REPORT: Daimler sells 9.1% stake to Abu Dhabi firm for $2.7 billion originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Technology, Work, Daimler
The next step in cruise control comes courtesy of Freightliner semis and GPS data company NAVTEQ. Freightliner broadened communication between the cruise control and map data: the GPS transmits information on the road ahead up to a mile, and then the cruise control computes the best speed at which to cover the distance with the greatest fuel efficiency.
It's called RunSmart Predictive Cruise, and it employs slope data from the NAVTEQ system that has been collected on 200,000 miles of the most used truck routes. While RunSmart is looking for peak efficiency, it won't sacrifice speed; the system remains within 6% of the set speed. It's an available option on Freightliner's Detroit Diesel DD15-equipped Cascadia model with the 72-inch raised roof.
[Source: Daimler]
Freightliner debuts RunSmart Predictive Cruise Control originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Hybrid, Government/Legal, Green, Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Daimler, Mercedes-Benz
In an all-too-rare win for Detroit's automaker base, the state of Michigan and Daimler have reportedly reached a deal to see a new Mercedes-Benz hybrid and electric car research and development facility built in neighboring Ann Arbor. Among other things, the facility will develop hybrid transmissions, electric motors, and powertrain management software.
The German automaker is reportedly seeking a 65,000 square-foot facility to house the R&D works, and the development will also see the relocation of an existing facility currently located in Troy. Over the course of the next decade, the new operation is expected to represent a $9.9 million investment and generate 454 jobs - 223 of them directly. However, in order to secure the facility in Michigan (California and South Carolina were reportedly also considered), the state has had to cough up a tax break package worth some $7.5 million over 10 years.
[Source: MLive]
REPORT: Daimler to open Mercedes hybrid electric research base in MI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: BMW, Daimler
Luxury automobile sales have been hit especially hard during the global economic disaster, and Daimler and BMW may become much closer allies as a result. German magazine Der Spiegel published a report stating that the two luxury giants are working to combine their purchasing power to save hundreds of millions of dollars. But the really interesting cooperation will reportedly happen in the form of a stock swap.
Under the alleged agreement, each company would give the other a 7% stake in the other. The move would strengthen the German automaker's new bond and perhaps lead to further cash-saving collaboration down the road. The magazine reports that the Quandt family, who own 46% of BMW, isn't keen on the idea due to Daimler's 1998 takeover of Chrysler. But the German government has allegedly been contacted to gauge the possibility of overriding any opposition to the deal. Talk of a BMW/Daimler tie up have been circulating for years, but the rumor tree has yet to bear any fruit. Due to the shabby state of the global automotive market, that could change quickly.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]
BMW and Daimler consider swapping shares in cross-ownership plan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, Earnings/Financials
Daimler is the latest in a long line of automakers to post a heavy decline for Q4 earnings in 2008. The German automaker was in the red to the tune of $1.95 billion, which is isn't a surprise considering October through December was among the worst periods for car sales in modern times. The loss was also a big swing from the $2.14 billion in profit Daimler posted in Q4 2007. Sales shrunk by 17% for the quarter as well, with net cash flow down by 12% to $26.9 billion. A big portion of Daimler's loss came courtesy of Chrysler, as the German automaker's 19.9% stake resulted in $1.4 billion in losses. Daimler is looking to unload it's share of Chrysler, but at this point will likely have to pay a massive premium to take the Auburn Hills, MI-based automaker off its books.
Daimler still managed a $1.77 billion profit in 2008, though that's down from $3.77 billion just one year earlier. Don't expect Daimler to make any predictions for 2009, either. The automaker is expecting continued struggles ahead for Mercedes-Benz, as the economic downturn is pinching wealthier buyers just as much as the rest of us.
[Source: Detroit News | Photo by TORSTEN SILZ/AFP/Getty]
Daimler posts $1.95 billion fourth-quarter loss originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Daimler, Mercedes-Benz
Wolfgang Bernhard is coming back to Daimler. The man who helped facilitate the sale of Chrysler to Cerebus, was instrumental in the Chrysler ME Four-Twelve supercar concept, and, most notably, the guy that drove the V10-powered Tomahawk motorcycle onto the stage at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show, will take over the van division of Mercedes-Benz on April 1st.
Bernard's return to Daimler comes as a bit of shock, considering he was the assumed successor to Dieter Zetsche as the head of M-B before he left under duress after a ten-year stint with the automaker. Soon afterward, he took the top position at Volkswagen and was later ousted after some boardroom shenanigans involving Ferdinand Piech.
Recently, Bernard was reportedly working as an advisor to Magna International, but in these tumultuous times, we're sure Wolfgang was looking for a more steady position.
[Source: Reuters]
Baby Come Back: Wolfgang Bernhard returns to Daimler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Daimler, Fiat
For over a decade, ownership of Chrysler has been bouncing back and forth over the Atlantic like an Airbus jet. Since its founding in 1925, it was independently owned and operated right out of Detroit, then Daimler bought controlling interest in 1998, only to sell it to U.S.-based Cerberus Capital Management. Now Fiat is poised to assume a 35% stake in the company. So the question is, who holds controlling interest? Well in short, nobody does. Daimler holds nearly 20%, Fiat's taking over 35%, leaving Cerberus with 45% - the lion's share, but short of controlling interest. But while the majority of Chrysler's shares may be back in Europe, Daimler isn't interested in holding onto its stake. Daimler and Cerberus had been talking about transferring ownership of the remaining 20% for a while already, but with America's financial institutions in shambles, who knows if the capital management company can even manage to find the capital to buy the rest of the company. In the meantime, it looks like Chrysler's at the whim of European automakers... yet again.
[Source: Reuters]
Who's the Boss? Daimler still wants to offload remaining stake in Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsArchive for the 'CHRYSLER' Category
Chrysler Pacifica
Friday, February 10th, 2006
Details info:
Alternative names:
Sales Company:
Available version:
3.5 V6 24v 4wd AutoStick
Previous version:
Variation:
Startech (Germany) Chrysler tuning
Donors:
Chrysler Crossfire
Friday, February 10th, 2006
Details info: Alternative names:
Crossfire (Chrysler Europe - Germany)
Chrysler Crossfire Roadster 2d
Sales Company:
Chrysler Europe (Germany)
Available version:
3.2 V6 18v 160kW
3.2 V6 18v aut. 160kW
SRT-6 - 3.2 V6 18v 246kW Supercharged
SRT-6 - 3.2 V6 18v 246 kW Supercharged aut.
Previous version:
Assembly Plans:
Karmann (Germany)
Info:
Chrysler Crossfire was developed after a concept version of the car was revealed at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version was unveiled one year later at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show. Manufactured by Karmann in Germany this new sporting coupe is a symbol of the possibilites of the DaimlerChrysler Group. Powertrain and axle components are shared from Mercedes-Benz cars.
11000 cars are scheduled to be produced in 2003.
Donors:
Chrysler Crossfire Coupé 3d
Thursday, February 9th, 2006
Details info: Alternative names:
Chrysler Crossfire Coupé 3d
Sales Company:
Chrysler Europe (Germany)
Available version:
3.2 V6 18v 160kW
3.2 V6 18v aut. 160kW
SRT-6 - 3.2 V6 18v 246kW Supercharged
SRT-6 - 3.2 V6 18v 246kW Supercharged
Previous version:
Variation:
Startech (Germany) Chrysler tuning
Startech (Germany) Coupé
Info:
Chrysler Crossfire was developed after a concept version of the car was revealed at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version was unveiled one year later at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show. Manufactured by Karmann in Germany this new sporting coupe is a symbol of the possibilites of the DaimlerChrysler Group. Powertrain and axle components are shared from Mercedes-Benz cars.
11000 cars are scheduled to be produced in 2003.
Assembly Plants:
Karmann (Germany)
Donors:
Chrysler 300C
Thursday, February 9th, 2006
Details info: Alternative names:
300C (Chrysler Europe - Germany)
Chrysler 300C Limousine 4d
Sales Company:
Chrysler Europe (Germany)
Available version:
2.7 V6 24v aut.
3.5 V6 24v aut.
5.7 V8 Autostick
SRT-8 - 6.1 V8 AutoStick
Previous version:
Variation:
Limousine 4d (2004 - )
Estate 5d (Touring) (2004 - )
Assembly Plants:
Info: New offering from Chrysler with retro styling and HEMI engine.
Donors: