Update: Chrysler could release new vehicles and platforms as early as next year

Posted Fri Aug 1 2008 8:29 AM by Nelson Ireson

Update: Chrysler CEO Robert Nardelli has put to rest fears the carmaker’s new midsize global platform - internally known as ‘Project D’ – is taking up too many resources and could be delayed by announcing that several unexpected vehicles and platforms could be unveiled by as early as next year. Nardelli is well aware of the need to quickly adapt to changing market conditions in the U.S. and demand for smaller and more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Speaking with The Detroit News, Nardelli explained that Chrysler would “continue to reprioritize its capital" and make sure it’s "responding to one of the most significant changes in consumer buying preferences.”

While vehicles based on the new Project D platform are expected to be launched over the coming years, Nardelli also revealed that some new models could be spawned from partnerships with other carmakers. Chrysler has already confirmed plans with both Nissan and Chery, and is also rumoured to be in talks with Fiat and Tata.

In 2010, Chrysler will launch even more new models, updating most of its fleet with a new generation of vehicles replacing most of its current fleet. “For sure we've got a strong lineup coming in 2010 with all of the traditional brands," Nardelli said, "but with more fuel efficiency, better performance, better fit, better finish, and a lot more consumer-oriented responses."

Original: Development of the car that will eventually replace the poor-selling Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger, a venture known as Project D, is reportedly taking up more resources than the company had hoped. Pinched for cash in the midst of a tough market, Chrysler is now looking for ways to cut that cost while still coming out the other end with a suitable product.

The replacement car isn't due until the 2011 or 2012 model years, so the company does have some time to work out a solution. Nevertheless, the realities of bringing a car to market mean the decision must be made soon. The primary options being considered, according to MotorTrend, include developing an all-new custom platform for the car; using another carmaker's platform, such as suitably-sized Fiat or Nissan products, with unique body styling; or all-out sharing of a platform with another company as it is currently doing with Volkswagen on the Routan minivan.

While the company may have a few years before it brings the car to market, time is of the essence, as midsize sedans will be the bread-and-butter sales items for Chrysler if fuel prices continue as they have. Very small cars won't offer the profit margin the midsize sedans do, and especially in the case of its Chrysler brand, the smallest of cars also won't fit well with the premium image it tries to project. A small Dodge, on the other hand, could do well, as the Neon proved in the 1990s.

Reader Comments

Wed Jul 30 2008 5:07 PM
JDoup says

Why doesn't Chrysler use the new VW CC platform. In addition, they should make it AWD and turbocharged. Wouldn't be a bad choice!!!
Wed Jul 30 2008 7:24 PM
NoNameDenton says

Does Chrysler actually have the money to build an all new platform? If not they should go with getting the platform from Fiat or Nissan and give it unique sheetmetal and suspension tuning.
Thu Jul 31 2008 10:15 AM
Jack says

Doesn't Chrysler realize that bad design is why it's not selling in the first place. Cutting corners and compromising on the design is just going to result in another boring product that can't compete with others in its class. Let the designers do their thing and not let the Marketing and business departments butcher it.
Fri Aug 1 2008 9:39 AM
damian says

personally, i'm not expecting much from what ever they bring out. last few cars have been horrible designs and i don't think they're out of that cycle yet. even their concept cars have been questionable lately.
Fri Aug 1 2008 9:43 AM
Dandan says

they ruined the new Chrysler Voyager which used to be the ultra-mum mobile. my mum used to have one my aunty had one and they could be so well equiped we had ps2's and tvs all over the show and with the 2+2+2 seating everyone had their own seat...now it looks like a dodge pick up truck with a cab roof
Fri Aug 1 2008 4:28 PM
dcars says

M&B destroyed Chrysler. It will be interesting see if they can survive all these bad cars and planning. The neon was an ok small car, but it was canceled and the PT Cruiser was slated for termination leaving the caliber as their only small car. Its too bad, but maybe the new fiat small car will come to the US.
Fri Aug 1 2008 4:31 PM
NoNameDenton says

dcars is right Mercedes people screwed up Chrysler, until the so-called merger of equals, Chrysler was a profitable company. I am suprised Chrysler has the money to develop new platforms, even with Ceberus' deep pockets backing them.
Sun Aug 3 2008 4:54 PM
J.L.Trater says

Any word on a new Mitsubishi GTO(3000 GT)/ Dodge Stealth??? All the Japanese sport coupes are coming back soon and Mitsubishi needs a new product boost and with the Viper being discontinued soon it would be a great addition. I really loved the Stealths from the early 1990`s.
Wed Sep 10 2008 10:13 PM
howard Duffy says

Is Chrysler trying to harken back to the days of the "Rapid Transit System" of MOPAR in the late 60's/early 70's? Lots o'luck...

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