Chrysler bringing in Fiat, Alfa Romeo. Dropping several Jeep and Dodge models.

From Motor Authority:

“The Fiat-Chrysler partnership has been brewing since well before the economic meltdown and federal loan bonanza of late 2008, but it’s still taking shape as the automakers find ways to work to their mutual benefit. The combined companies’ new CEO Sergio Marchionne is set to reveal the future plans for both Fiat and Chrysler in just a week’s time but we already have much of the details on hand.

According to people briefed on the plans, Alfa Romeo is set to return as a volume player in 2012. Fiat will be here too, although the only model planned is the 500 minicar, which should in early 2011…

Don’t feel too bad Fiat isn’t coming here in full force. Chrysler will introduce several new models that rely on Fiat platforms and technology. The first of these will be a new mid-sized sedan from Chrysler based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, followed by new hatchback and a compact Jeep. There will also be redesigned versions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300 arriving as early as next year.

Several models will be dropped from Chrysler’s U.S. lineup as well. These will include a number of Dodge models, such as the Caliber, Nitro, Avenger, and several Jeep models, too, such as the Commander, Compass, and Patriot. Other vehicles getting the axe include Chrysler’s PT Cruiser and Sebring.”

Full article here.

Chrysler appoints new head of design for Jeep Brand

From Business Week:

“A recent shuffle of Chrysler Group’s design team could be just what the company needs to effect a quick turnaround after bankruptcy, industry analysts say.  The automaker has promoted three men from within to head design for its Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands.”

“Mark Allen, 46, was promoted to head of Jeep design from his previous position of chief of Dodge and Jeep truck design.

Jeep has the most going for it in terms of design, analysts say. Allen’s prime directive will be to preserve and evolve the iconic Jeep look that makes the Wrangler a continued sales success relative to other models in the line-up. “Don’t try to make Jeep what it’s not,” Hossack says. “Don’t be selling these little crossover SUVs that won’t go over anything other than wet grass. Make a Jeep a Jeep.”

Allen is very familiar with Jeep’s design heritage, having worked on the 2007 Liberty and 2006 Wrangler. And he certainly has experience with trucks that can tackle more than a damp lawn, after helping craft the 2010 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty, 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 and 2008 Dodge Dakota.”

Click here to read the full article.