Despite Chrysler’s current shortcoming, the company has repeatedly asserted that bankruptcy is not an option. Even as the company’s debt as grown to more than $20 billion, Chrysler chairman Bob Nardelli says that the company can still operate independently if it receives its proposed $5 billion loan from the federal government.
In addition to lucrative government aid, Chrysler also has potential of a proposed alliance with the Italian automaker Fiat. However, the alliance, in which Fiat would own 35 percent of Chrysler with no money down, is contingent on the $5 billion loan being granted. One Chrysler dealership St Louis points out that if the alliance does get built, it would represent the sixth largest automaker in the world, just lagging behind the Ford Motor Company.
Meanwhile, Chrysler plans on eliminating models that don’t provide the volume it desperately needs in the near-term. These vehicles including the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen sport utility vehicles, along with the aging PT Cruiser that Chrysler Dallas says has long been overdue for an update. Best case scenario, assuming the proposed alliance is successful, future vehicles will include the all-electric EV Roadster, an all new Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger for the 2011 model year, and an all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee/Dodge Durango also for 2011, all of which are highly anticipated among Newark Dodge dealers and other Chrysler retailers nationwide.
In 2011 or as late as 2012, Chrysler showrooms could have a number of Fiat-based vehicles to offer. This includes a small hatchback, a mini-compact, and a Fiat Punto-derived hatchback. Jeep may also get attention and receive a compact Fiat crossover vehicle. Collaboration with Nissan may also yield the next-generation Dodge Ram pickup which Chattanooga Dodge dealers expect may help the Ram maintain its edge over trucks from Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota. Farther out, additional Fiat vehicles could fill in caps in the Dodge/Chrysler lineup to include replacements for the Sebring/Avenger, as well as add another compact car or compact SUV.
Even further out, Chrysler’s planning a range of all-new vehicles, including a lifestyle truck, a MPV, and a full-size luxury sedan, as well as a hybrid and new full-size pickup. The Fiat 500 is also reportedly the first Fiat model to arrive in Chrysler showrooms. Connecticut Dodge expects many of these vehicles will help reinvent the tarnished Chrysler brand. While all this is riding on federal aid, the potential seems to be there for Chrysler to get out of its extreme sales slump.
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