According to the Wall Street Journal, Marchionne stated that’s open to negotiations with everybody and that Alfa Romeo “must begin producing vehicles in North America by the end of 2010, beginning of 2011."
Marchionne has also confirmed the launch of the 500 in the U.S., telling reporters at a press event in Turin earlier this month that the 500 could be a “smash hit” in the U.S.
At the same time, Fiat chief technology officer Harald J. Wester revealed there are two new small cars in the works and the 500 minicar will be sold in North America, although he didn’t give a timeline. He also confirmed the car would be produced at either a U.S. plant or one of Fiat’s existing facilities in South America.