Fiat Chrysler Automobiles release a revised version of their 2014 business plan today. It began with a curious quote from Mark Twain: “The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated.” Not sure exactly how that fits into the context of Fiat Chrysler changing their business plan, but I like it. You stay weird, FCA. The changes to their business plan are as follows:
In general, FCA noted how well received the Ferrari IPO was this October as well as how strong the Jeep brand was performing around the world, more than expected. But the automaker did admit to some fallbacks, especially in the Chinese market with the Maserati and Alfa Romeo brands.
Alfa Romeo and Maserati did not perform as well as expected in 2015. As such, FCA have taken a second look and re-assessed their plans for those brands. They will combine the brands’ dealerships in China, and reign in R&D. However, FCA is committed to the brands’ success. Alfa Romeo will launch a new utility vehicle in 2016 or 2017, and between 2017 and 2020 will launch a new full sized sedan, two new utility vehicles, two “specialty” vehicles, and a hatchback. These will add to their current line up of the 4C, 4C Spider, Giulia, Giulietta, and Mito. (I didn’t realize they were still making the Giulietta and Mito. Can’t find ‘em here in the U.S., so they’re as good as non-existent to me.)
The Jeep and Ram brands were in high demand in the 2015 year, and as such, FCA will introduce a new action plan to capitalize on the brands’ popularity. They also mentioned plans for a future Grand Wagoneer(!) and Wrangler Pickup(!) models.
FCA also emphasized their commitment to regulatory compliance with market emissions laws. “Mild hybrid” models were mentioned for Ram and Jeep, with a specific mention of a Wrangler hybrid. The Wrangler will also be getting a diesel engine.
Whatever the case may be, there is sure to be some interesting cars coming from FCA within the next few years, so we will have that to look forward to. Let’s hope that the “specialty” cars coming from Alfa Romeo are going to be affordable, fun, performance-oriented cars. Are you making us a new GTV, Sergio? Perhaps a new Spider? Whatever you make, just make it nutty and make it available in the U.S. I know I would buy that stuff.
Source: FCA
