Marchionne: Chrysler keeping an emphasis on trucks

While all the talk is about the merging of Fiat platforms and technology in future Chrysler vehicles, Sergio Marchioone, CEO of both companies, says Chrysler will still be heavy into trucks.

Speaking to Automotive News, Marchionne said, “I think it will be very stupid for us to assume the same type of European style and sizing which has driven the automobile portfolio of Fiat Group will prevail in the U.S.”

Ram will continue to focus on American-style pickups and commercial vehicles. The only probable Italian transplants are likely to be the Doblo and Ducato vans which will fill the gap left by the Sprinter and B-Series van. The Ducato is a more likely candidate than the Iveco Daily because Iveco is a separate operating group within Fiat’s corporate structure. Fiat does have a small pickup for some markets but it’s unlikely to come to the U.S.

Marchionne says Jeep will see an expansion of its scope to broaden its product line beyond the traditional “Trail-Rated” Jeep models. He wants to tap into the market for Jeep-like vehicles for people who don’t actually go offroad, a market he believes Jeep has not served as well as its competitors. Look for two new all-wheel-drive crossovers, one of which could be based on the tiny Fiat Panda.

Chrysler and Dodge will continue to offer large cars but will add new, Fiat-based small cars to allow the automaker to effectively compete in the small-car segment. Marchionne wants to see a true full-line offering, especially in the C and D markets where Chrysler’s products like the Sebring and Avenger have not met with much success.