Since the formation of Stellantis a few years ago, speculation about what will happen with the low-selling, but still-iconic Chrysler brand has run rampant. Officials, led by CEO Carlos Tavares, assured there were plans for Chrysler. However, time has passed with just one product left, the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, and now someone wants to resurrect the brand: Walter P. Chrysler’s great-grandson. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Ford Motor Co. will pare back its diversity efforts, joining companies like Lowe’s, John Deere and Beam Suntory, the producers of Jim Beam liquor who have entirely abandoned so-called DEI programs. Ford’s move was hailed by conservatives, but denounced as “shortsighted” by human rights advocates. For his part, CEO Jim Farley said the automaker will still work to creative an “inclusive workplace.”
Alfa Romeo Tonale is the Italian brand’s biggest gamble yet as the company attempts to expand its reach into the utility vehicle segment while also providing a new gateway into the brand for new buyers.
It’s been the subject of speculation for weeks, “knowledgeable sources” chattering amongst themselves about the possibility China’s BYD is in talks with Stellantis as it looks for a way to crack into the U.S. market. The two makers have firmly dismissed the rumors. But there seems little doubt Chinese automakers want to target the world’s second-largest automotive market and are sniffing around the North American auto industry looking for a way to break in.
Ram is the latest automaker to embrace the dark side of the moon with the 2024 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and Rebel Lunar Edition. Special edition will help the truck hold down the fort as it prepares to update the HDs
UAW President Shawn Fain used a prime-time speech during the opening of the Democratic National Convention to warn of a possible strike against Stellantis. Speaking out against what he described as “corporate greed,” Fain accused the Euro-American automaker of reneging on investments promised as part of a settlement union and management reached during contract talks last autumn.
A once well-respected marque, the fate of Chrysler is increasingly in doubt. Last month, Carlos Tavares, the CEO of Stellantis — the Euro-American automaker formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Groupe PSA — warned that some of its 14 brands could be abandoned if they don’t start delivering better sales and earnings. Chrysler is widely believed to be one of the most vulnerable divisions. But that’s really nothing new.
The growth of the EV market has clearly slowed this year, General Motors President Mark Reuss said during a media confab, but sales are still on the rise and GM continues planning to gain ground, even as it delays some product launches. A critical step will be driving down prices, even as profitability improves, said Reuss, who oversees GM’s product development efforts.
Ram ends an era with the decision to axe the Ram 1500 Classic after the 2024 model year. Model was the last remnant of Ram’s days as a member of the Dodge family and was also the last option left for truck buyers looking for a traditional V8 in their pickup purchase.
As EV sales growth slows, automakers are looking for other ways to reduce emissions without turning off potential buyers. That’s led to a wave of new plug-in hybrids coming to market – and to a surge in demand for PHEVs which grew 50% globally during the first five months of the year. But will they continue to outpace all-electric models? That’s a matter of debate.
While automakers are still tallying up the final numbers, they’re expected to reveal that, boosted by a strong economy, July vehicles sales bounced back after a weak June. Here’s a preview of what we’re likely to see.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares is burnishing reputation as a cost-cutter with another round of buyout offers for salaried executives. He’s also warning there could be a round of layoffs if the buyouts don’t achieve the reduction goals. Find out more at Headlight.News.