Chrysler Intends to Save by Using 'Imported' Parts

To cut costs, Chrysler is outsourcing beyond North America and employing frugal plans to reduce expenses by $1,000 per vehicle.

"We are willing to import with the focus on being competitive," said Tom LaSorda, Chrysler head during the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. LaSorda also stated that within 6-12 months, Chrysler would point out cost reductions averaging $1,000 per vehicle, a portion of which comes from outsourcing. He added, "We are going to source where we can get good low-cost components and high quality."

LaSorda also noted that the automaker will concentrate on increasing sales beyond North America. It can be recollected that in said territory, Chrysler usually generates 85-91 percent sales.

Further, LaSorda reported talks about a production alliance with China's Chery and a non-Chinese company. However, LaSorda did not give further detailsabout the possible alliance. Chrysler, an American automobile manufacturer, existed independently from 1925 to 1998. Then, Chrysler and its subsidiaries became part of DaimlerChrysler AG when merger with Daimler-Benz was acknowledged in 1998.

It can be recalled that last year was one of the most remarkable years for Chrysler. Last year, a bench trial in Wilmington Delaware has started. The parties of said trial are Kirk Kerkorian and DaimlerChrysler AG. It was all about the allegations about Jürgen Schrempp of Daimler Benz AG, regarding uttering lies and manipulating the Security and Exchange Commission as well as the Chrysler Corporation's shareholders. Kerkorian was one of the biggest stockholders then. Said case delved on merger of the companies as a merger of equals and not an outright acquisition. Further, the judge favored DaimlerChrysler. Nevertheless, another case was amicably settled for $300 million in 2003.

Nowadays, Chrysler takes extra effort to clear the clouds blurring its reputation. It is also concentrating on how to cut costs without compromising the quality of Chrysler car parts hence; the decision of outsourcing from other territories.

Critics in the auto industry are eyeing on the workflow and performance of Chrysler vehicles. Moreover, the automaker is struggling to put up a good fight with other automakers. Now it is devising several plans to augment its production and sales.

By Joe Wayne.

All-New 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country Minivans Debut at the 2007 Detroit Show

The all-new 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans have once again proven that they have what it takes to be the best vehicles to move people and cargo. The thirty-five new and improved features make the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country not only practical but have all the right ingredients that would ensure 100% driving and riding satisfaction.

According to George Murphy, Senior Vice President - Marketing, Chrysler Group, "The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan spice up the minivan recipe by offering an all-new contemporary appearance, five different models, three distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and the safety you expect and deserve. Add in three powertrain options, clever interior features and industry-leading functionality and you have a recipe that will be a favorite with any family."

The 2008 Dodge and Chrysler Minivans have so much to offer. Aside from the high quality Dodge parts that they are equipped with, they also have the all-new Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system that allows a 180 degrees swiveling of seats—perfect for passengers seated at the back particularly the second row that may want to face third row.

The all-new Swivel n’ Go includes a removable table, covered storage bins in the floor of the second row, uncover storage for the third row and a fold-in-the-floor third row extra seat. It also provides an industry-first integrated child booster seat in the second row and a minivan exclusive one-touch power folding third row 60/40 bench seat.

Safety is an integral part of the 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans. They are equipped with all-row supplemental side-curtain air bags, Electronics Stability Program (ESP) complete with traction control and brake assist, LATCH child seat anchor system and a patented, energy-absorbing steering column are among the standard safety features. And that’s not all! The 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans also include Innovations like an industry-first integrated child booster seat, ParkView(TM) rear back-up camera, a rearview interior conversation mirror, integrated child safety seat and ParkSense(R) rear back-up system also ensure peace of mind while traveling.

The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans are to be manufactured at two of DaimlerChrysler big plants: the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario Canada and the St. Louis South Assembly Plant in Fenton, Missouri. The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans are expected in US dealerships by fall of 2007.

By Correy Putton.