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Starting in 2025 with select EVs, Stellantis vehicles in North America will begin using the SAE J3400 charging connector, more commonly known as NACS. The NACS connector is an evolution of the Tesla plug and is backward compatible. Stellantis was the last large holdout to adopt NACS and this move effectively completes the commitment from all companies to switch to the new standard. An adapter will be made available for owners of vehicles equipped with a CCS port. (At the time of this writing, the only CCS equipped vehicle offered in the US by Stellantis is the Fiat 500e). Stellantis is one of the seven auto makers that have joined forces to build IONNA, a new charging network to rival Tesla's. IONNA aims to build 30,000 charge points across North America by 2030. IONNA charge points will be equipped with both CCS and NACS plugs, with the first stations opening later this year. What is missing from this release is any mention of Tesla Supercharger network access for Stellantis-brand vehicle owners. We've reached out to Stellantis for clarification and will report back. Related: Seven Manufactures Form Joint-Venture to Build a Rival to Tesla's Supercharger Network Ram Smashes Range Anxiety with their Ram 1500 REV Production Version of RAM 1500 REV to get Optional Range Extender -
Starting in 2025 with select EVs, Stellantis vehicles in North America will begin using the SAE J3400 charging connector, more commonly known as NACS. The NACS connector is an evolution of the Tesla plug and is backward compatible. Stellantis was the last large holdout to adopt NACS and this move effectively completes the commitment from all companies to switch to the new standard. An adapter will be made available for owners of vehicles equipped with a CCS port. (At the time of this writing, the only CCS equipped vehicle offered in the US by Stellantis is the Fiat 500e). Stellantis is one of the seven auto makers that have joined forces to build IONNA, a new charging network to rival Tesla's. IONNA aims to build 30,000 charge points across North America by 2030. IONNA charge points will be equipped with both CCS and NACS plugs, with the first stations opening later this year. What is missing from this release is any mention of Tesla Supercharger network access for Stellantis-brand vehicle owners. We've reached out to Stellantis for clarification and will report back. Related: Seven Manufactures Form Joint-Venture to Build a Rival to Tesla's Supercharger Network Ram Smashes Range Anxiety with their Ram 1500 REV Production Version of RAM 1500 REV to get Optional Range Extender View full article
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Fiat Chrysler is bringing a slew of concepts to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas that all feature some sort of electrification. The centerpiece of their display will be the 2020 Airflow Vision concept. While not specifically branded as a Chrysler, the Airflow Vision does take the name of a full-size Chrysler model produced from 1934 - 1937. FCA calls it a "sculptural design concept" that envisions the next generation of premium transportation. The interior user experience is designed to be captivating. FCA put a lot of work into showing a sophisticated appearance that can be personalized and customized to individual needs. The cabin offers multiple interfaces, one behind the steering wheel, two on the center console, one for the front passenger, and two more for the rear passengers. Information can be shared between the screens by swiping. The interior is said to be the same size as the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in and has a flat load floor. In spite of all that room, it only has 4 seats set up in a lounge chair fashion to maximize legroom, shoulder room, and storage space for each passenger. Premium suedes and leathers, along with ambient lighting make the ride a first-class experience. The exterior of the Airflow Vision has an aggressive stance with bodywork reaching almost to the ground. The wheels hint at the use of electric motors, but no powertrain information was provided. -
Fiat Chrysler is bringing a slew of concepts to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas that all feature some sort of electrification. The centerpiece of their display will be the 2020 Airflow Vision concept. While not specifically branded as a Chrysler, the Airflow Vision does take the name of a full-size Chrysler model produced from 1934 - 1937. FCA calls it a "sculptural design concept" that envisions the next generation of premium transportation. The interior user experience is designed to be captivating. FCA put a lot of work into showing a sophisticated appearance that can be personalized and customized to individual needs. The cabin offers multiple interfaces, one behind the steering wheel, two on the center console, one for the front passenger, and two more for the rear passengers. Information can be shared between the screens by swiping. The interior is said to be the same size as the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in and has a flat load floor. In spite of all that room, it only has 4 seats set up in a lounge chair fashion to maximize legroom, shoulder room, and storage space for each passenger. Premium suedes and leathers, along with ambient lighting make the ride a first-class experience. The exterior of the Airflow Vision has an aggressive stance with bodywork reaching almost to the ground. The wheels hint at the use of electric motors, but no powertrain information was provided. View full article
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FCA US LLC Sales Summary Q4 2019 Model Q4 Sales Vol % CYTD Sales Vol % Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Compass Patriot Wrangler Gladiator Cherokee Grand Cherokee Renegade JEEP BRAND 33,263 38,493 -14% 6 22 -73% 52,012 49,081 6% 16,663 0 New 42,048 59,694 -30% 57,929 58,255 -1% 19,615 21,488 -9% 221,536 227,033 -2% 143,934 171,167 -16% 27 621 -96% 228,032 240,032 -5% 40,047 0 New 191,397 239,437 -20% 242,969 224,908 8% 76,885 97,062 -21% 923,291 973,227 -5% Ram P/U ProMaster Van ProMaster City RAM BRAND 172,579 161,397 7% 15,108 15,009 1% 2,968 4,301 -31% 190,655 180,707 6% 633,694 536,980 18% 56,409 46,600 21% 12,920 13,788 -6% 703,023 597,368 18% 200 300 Town & Country Pacifica CHRYSLER BRAND 3 43 -93% 5,520 12,038 -54% 1 0 27,481 26,727 3% 33,005 38,808 -15% 48 1,043 -95% 29,213 46,593 -37% 5 6 -17% 97,705 118,322 -17% 126,971 165,964 -23% Dart Avenger Charger Challenger Viper Journey Caravan Durango DODGE BRAND 2 10 -80% 0 0 100% 25,829 20,918 23% 14,298 14,403 -1% 0 4 -100% 12,290 16,863 -27% 23,245 30,992 -25% 14,977 16,406 -9% 90,641 99,596 -9% 15 389 -96% 1 4 -75% 96,935 80,226 21% 60,997 66,716 -9% 5 19 -74% 74,686 94,096 -21% 122,648 151,927 -19% 67,599 65,947 3% 422,886 459,324 -8% 500 500L 500X Spider FIAT BRAND 699 1,653 -58% 166 182 -9% 442 1,002 -56% 430 600 -28% 1,737 3,437 -49% 3,267 5,370 -39% 771 1,413 -45% 2,518 5,223 -52% 2,644 3,515 -25% 9,200 15,521 -41% Giulia Alfa 4C Stelvio ALFA ROMEO 2,328 2,586 -10% 17 55 -69% 2,600 2,999 -13% 4,945 5,640 -12% 8,704 11,519 -24% 144 238 -39% 9,444 12,043 -22% 18,292 23,800 -23% FCA US LLC 542,519 555,221 -2% 2,203,663 2,235,204 -1%
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Fiat is bringing the Concept Centoventi to the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas. The concept previews the next generation Panda and the name means 120 in Italian in honor of the brand's 120 year history. The Panda is the mini-car platform used by the Fiat 500 in the U.S. The Concept Centoventi is designed to be a "blank canvas" ready to be painted to suit owner's needs and desires at any time, without being stuck with the color chosen at purchase. It is produced in only one color and then the customer "paints" the vehicle using Fiat's 4U program that allows for four roof options, four bumper cover options, four wheel cover options, and four exterior wrappings. Various interior options like storage compartments, seats, and child-restraint systems are interchangeable and installed in a plug-and-play fashion by the customer. The powertrain is electrified and can be equipped with different batteries to vary the range from 60 miles to 300 miles. The Concept Centoventi has a small screen in the windshield facing outward to display messages while a larger rear tailgate display can also display messages or while in motion, just the Fiat logo. -
Fiat is bringing the Concept Centoventi to the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas. The concept previews the next generation Panda and the name means 120 in Italian in honor of the brand's 120 year history. The Panda is the mini-car platform used by the Fiat 500 in the U.S. The Concept Centoventi is designed to be a "blank canvas" ready to be painted to suit owner's needs and desires at any time, without being stuck with the color chosen at purchase. It is produced in only one color and then the customer "paints" the vehicle using Fiat's 4U program that allows for four roof options, four bumper cover options, four wheel cover options, and four exterior wrappings. Various interior options like storage compartments, seats, and child-restraint systems are interchangeable and installed in a plug-and-play fashion by the customer. The powertrain is electrified and can be equipped with different batteries to vary the range from 60 miles to 300 miles. The Concept Centoventi has a small screen in the windshield facing outward to display messages while a larger rear tailgate display can also display messages or while in motion, just the Fiat logo. View full article
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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group have agreed to the terms of a merger just after it was announced they were talking just yesterday. PSA's board has already agreed to the deal and is awaiting approval from FCA's board which is meeting later tonight. The merger, if approved, would create the 4th largest automotive company in the world with nearly $50 billion in value. FCA Chairman John Elkann would retain his chairmanship of the new company while Peugeot CEO Carlos Tavares would stay on as CEO. The board would be comprised of six appointees from Peugeot while FCA would get five. Both companies would pay dividends to their shareholders, €3 billion from Peugeot and €5 billion from FCA plus an additional €250 million from the sale of its Comau unit. Peugeot will sell its stake in auto parts make Faurecia. Where the new company would be based has not yet been decided. Both the French and U.S. governments have been briefed on the deal. View full article
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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group have agreed to the terms of a merger just after it was announced they were talking just yesterday. PSA's board has already agreed to the deal and is awaiting approval from FCA's board which is meeting later tonight. The merger, if approved, would create the 4th largest automotive company in the world with nearly $50 billion in value. FCA Chairman John Elkann would retain his chairmanship of the new company while Peugeot CEO Carlos Tavares would stay on as CEO. The board would be comprised of six appointees from Peugeot while FCA would get five. Both companies would pay dividends to their shareholders, €3 billion from Peugeot and €5 billion from FCA plus an additional €250 million from the sale of its Comau unit. Peugeot will sell its stake in auto parts make Faurecia. Where the new company would be based has not yet been decided. Both the French and U.S. governments have been briefed on the deal. -
Fiat's future is uncertain in North America as the brand struggles to find sales. Already, the Fiat 500 has been dropped from the lineup in North America, and that was one of the better sellers. The Fiat 500X is more of a crossover hatchback. It shares its platform with the fantastically more popular Jeep Renegade. Still, even in spite of its sales troubles, Fiat is releasing a refresh of the 500X Sport for 2020. The new 500x Sport gets new front and rear fascia designs, a black roof option, dark finished headliner and pillars, new sport seating, an updated version of uConnect with a 7-inch display including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A new exterior color "Rovente Red" is being added. The 500X Sport is powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged MultiAir III engine. The engine produces 177 horsepower and an impressive 210 lb.-ft of torque while also delivering 30 mpg highway. Fiat points out that this is the only car in the class to have AWD standard and also get 30 mpg highway. The 2020 Fiat 500X Sport starts at $26,895 before destination charges and will be available in the first quarter of 2020. -
Fiat's future is uncertain in North America as the brand struggles to find sales. Already, the Fiat 500 has been dropped from the lineup in North America, and that was one of the better sellers. The Fiat 500X is more of a crossover hatchback. It shares its platform with the fantastically more popular Jeep Renegade. Still, even in spite of its sales troubles, Fiat is releasing a refresh of the 500X Sport for 2020. The new 500x Sport gets new front and rear fascia designs, a black roof option, dark finished headliner and pillars, new sport seating, an updated version of uConnect with a 7-inch display including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A new exterior color "Rovente Red" is being added. The 500X Sport is powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged MultiAir III engine. The engine produces 177 horsepower and an impressive 210 lb.-ft of torque while also delivering 30 mpg highway. Fiat points out that this is the only car in the class to have AWD standard and also get 30 mpg highway. The 2020 Fiat 500X Sport starts at $26,895 before destination charges and will be available in the first quarter of 2020. View full article
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The Fiat 500 that helped re-launch the brand in North America has been dropped from the 2020 Fiat lineup according to FCA. The 500 has lingered on with poor sales for years, selling just 1,692 copies in the first six months of 2019. Existing supplies of the Fiat 500 will sustain what demand there is for the little car for months. Continuing on, though unsure as to why, will be the 500X, 500L, and 124 Spider. Why any of those vehicles are continuing while the 500 gets the scythe is unknown... all of them sell even worse than the 500 does. The 500 first came to the US in 2011 when gas prices were in the $4.00 range in certain parts of the country. It initially enjoyed a bit of a sales rush with over 43,000 sold in 2012, the first full year on the market. That year, however, also turned out to be the best year as sales have been downhill since. We think this announcement, along with the fact that there is unlikely to be a followup to the 124 Spider, could be the beginning of the end of Fiat in the U.S..... again. View full article
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The Fiat 500 that helped re-launch the brand in North America has been dropped from the 2020 Fiat lineup according to FCA. The 500 has lingered on with poor sales for years, selling just 1,692 copies in the first six months of 2019. Existing supplies of the Fiat 500 will sustain what demand there is for the little car for months. Continuing on, though unsure as to why, will be the 500X, 500L, and 124 Spider. Why any of those vehicles are continuing while the 500 gets the scythe is unknown... all of them sell even worse than the 500 does. The 500 first came to the US in 2011 when gas prices were in the $4.00 range in certain parts of the country. It initially enjoyed a bit of a sales rush with over 43,000 sold in 2012, the first full year on the market. That year, however, also turned out to be the best year as sales have been downhill since. We think this announcement, along with the fact that there is unlikely to be a followup to the 124 Spider, could be the beginning of the end of Fiat in the U.S..... again.- 9 comments
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FCA US Reports March 2019 Sales Ram pickup reports new March record as sales increase 9 percent to 45,187 sold Jeep® Grand Cherokee notches best March ever as sales rise 26 percent to 24,655 vehicles sold Ram brand sets new March record as sales jump 15 percent to 51,822 sold April 2, 2019 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC reported a new March record for the Ram brand as sales jumped 15 percent, underscoring the success the company has found in its two-pronged strategy of selling both the Ram 1500 and Ram Classic. The performance of the Ram brand, combined with a new March record for Jeep® Grand Cherokee, countered general softness within the industry. FCA sold 200,307 vehicles in the month. "The industry had a tough first quarter but with spring finally starting to show its face and continued strong economic indicators, such as a boost in housing sales, lower lending rates and a strong labor market, we are confident that new vehicle sales demand will strengthen going forward," Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales, said. "Meanwhile, our Ram brand sales and average transaction prices continue to be strong and our much anticipated, game-changing Jeep Gladiator pickup is on track for its in-market debut this month." See the attached table for the breakdown of brand and nameplate sales. Method of Determining FCA US LLC’s Monthly Sales. FCA US’s reported vehicle sales represent unit sales of vehicles to retail customers, deliveries of vehicles to fleet customers and to others such as FCA US’s employees and retirees as well as vehicles used for marketing. Most of these reported sales reflect retail sales made by dealers out of their own inventory of vehicles previously purchased by them from FCA US. Reported vehicle units sales do not correspond to FCA US’s reported revenues, which are based on FCA US’s sale and delivery of vehicles, and typically recognized upon shipment to the dealer or end customer. As announced on July 26, 2016, FCA US has modified its methodology for monthly sales reporting as follows: Sales to retail customers by dealers in the U.S. are derived from the New Vehicle Delivery Report (“NVDR”) system and are determined as the sum of (A) all sales recorded by dealers during the month net of all unwound transactions recorded to the end of that month (whether the original sale was recorded in the current month or any prior month); plus (B) all sales of vehicles during that month attributable to past unwinds that had previously been reversed in determining monthly sales (in the current or prior months). Fleet sales are recorded upon the shipment of the vehicle by FCA US to the customer or end user. Other retail sales are recorded either (A) when the sale is recorded in the NVDR system (for sales by dealers in Puerto Rico and limited sales made through distributors that submit NVDRs in the same manner as for sales by U.S. dealers) or (B) upon receipt of a similar delivery notification (for vehicles for which NVDRs are not entered such as vehicles for FCA employees). FCA US LLC Sales Summary March 2019 Model Month Sales Vol % Change CYTD Sales Curr Yr Pr Yr Vol % Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Compass 14,945 17,302 -14% 37,306 43,520 -14% Patriot 1 100 -99% 10 364 -97% Wrangler 21,963 27,829 -21% 49,978 55,504 -10% Gladiator 43 0 New 123 0 New Cherokee 18,262 23,764 -23% 49,420 50,610 -2% Grand Cherokee 24,665 19,616 26% 57,749 53,448 8% Renegade 7,449 9,771 -24% 18,218 24,659 -26% JEEP BRAND 87,328 98,382 -11% 212,804 228,105 -7% Ram P/U 45,187 41,307 9% 120,026 103,964 15% Cargo Van 0 0 0% 0 0 ProMaster Van 4,928 2,451 101% 13,319 6,457 106% ProMaster City 1,707 1,120 52% 3,668 3,233 13% RAM BRAND 51,822 44,878 15% 137,013 113,654 21% 200 8 189 -96% 26 659 -96% 300 3,704 6,223 -40% 8,290 12,992 -36% Town & Country 0 1 -100% 1 3 -67% Pacifica 8,457 13,086 -35% 23,274 32,579 -29% CHRYSLER BRAND 12,169 19,499 -38% 31,591 46,233 -32% Dart 2 87 -98% 8 252 -97% Avenger 0 0 100% 0 1 -100% Charger 8,858 8,504 4% 20,615 21,265 -3% Challenger 6,562 8,150 -19% 13,431 17,648 -24% Viper 0 6 -100% 1 9 -89% Journey 8,513 10,275 -17% 24,003 18,419 30% Caravan 15,806 16,292 -3% 35,440 43,144 -18% Durango 6,626 5,870 13% 17,019 16,233 5% DODGE BRAND 46,367 49,184 -6% 110,517 116,971 -6% 500 310 439 -29% 778 1,309 -41% 500L 61 173 -65% 168 395 -57% 500X 262 607 -57% 755 1,579 -52% Spider 214 325 -34% 513 731 -30% FIAT BRAND 847 1,544 -45% 2,214 4,014 -45% Giulia 858 1,284 -33% 2,035 3,085 -34% Alfa 4C 18 22 -18% 41 54 -24% Stelvio 898 1,270 -29% 2,210 2,653 -17% ALFA ROMEO 1,774 2,576 -31% 4,286 5,792 -26% FCA US LLC 200,307 216,063 -7% 498,425 514,769 -3%
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FCA Reports May 2019 U.S. Sales Ram brand achieves 12th consecutive monthly record as May sales rise 29 percent Jeep® Grand Cherokee notches best May ever as sales rise 18 percent Dodge Charger reports highest May in six years as sales reach 9,296 vehicles June 3, 2019 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC achieved three records in May, led by the Ram brand which notched its 12th consecutive monthly sales record as demand for both light-duty and heavy-duty pickup trucks remained strong. It was the best May ever for the Jeep® Grand Cherokee and the highest level of May sales for the Dodge Charger in six years. Overall, total sales rose 2 percent to 218,702 vehicles. Fleet represented 31 percent of total sales during the month. On a year-to-date basis, fleet accounted for 22 percent of sales. "On a year-over-year basis we have increased our average transaction prices by more than $3,000 a vehicle and still managed some notable sales increases," said Reid Bigland, U.S. Head of Sales. “In its first full month on sale, our all new Jeep Gladiator pickup truck delivered more than 2,500 vehicle sales, our Ram pickup truck sales soared 33 percent and the Jeep Grand Cherokee delivered its best May sales ever.” See the attached table for the breakdown of brand and nameplate sales. Model Month Sales Vol % CYTD Sales Vol % Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Compass Patriot Wrangler Gladiator Cherokee Grand Cherokee Renegade JEEP BRAND 14,534 17,327 -16% 0 63 -100% 24,530 25,102 -2% 2,584 0 New 17,283 23,789 -27% 25,394 21,494 18% 6,001 9,512 -37% 90,326 97,287 -7% 64,537 72,368 -11% 12 502 -98% 96,930 110,382 -12% 3,021 0 New 81,384 91,286 -11% 103,612 91,589 13% 29,959 41,906 -29% 379,455 408,033 -7% Ram P/U ProMaster Van ProMaster City RAM BRAND 62,250 46,781 33% 3,651 4,092 -11% 1,216 1,011 20% 67,117 51,884 29% 231,382 189,997 22% 20,775 13,366 55% 5,784 5,249 10% 257,941 208,612 24% 200 300 Town & Country Pacifica CHRYSLER BRAND 6 88 -93% 2,665 3,484 -24% 0 1 -100% 8,232 11,151 -26% 10,903 14,724 -26% 35 842 -96% 12,953 20,389 -36% 3 5 -40% 38,490 53,910 -29% 51,481 75,146 -31% Dart Avenger Charger Challenger Viper Journey Caravan Durango DODGE BRAND 0 29 -100% 1 0 100% 9,296 6,869 35% 5,748 7,005 -18% 0 3 -100% 7,642 10,966 -30% 16,809 15,487 9% 8,263 6,222 33% 47,759 46,581 3% 10 307 -97% 1 2 -50% 36,012 34,766 4% 23,601 30,545 -23% 2 14 -86% 38,727 41,023 -6% 59,732 70,511 -15% 31,453 27,378 15% 189,538 204,546 -7% 500 500L 500X Spider FIAT BRAND 335 264 27% 69 184 -63% 272 568 -52% 349 425 -18% 1,025 1,441 -29% 1,386 1,908 -27% 309 747 -59% 1,284 2,711 -53% 1,191 1,493 -20% 4,170 6,859 -39% Giulia Alfa 4C Stelvio ALFA ROMEO 797 1,175 -32% 14 19 -26% 761 1,183 -36% 1,572 2,377 -34% 3,578 5,383 -34% 82 95 -14% 3,782 4,538 -17% 7,442 10,016 -26% FCA US LLC 218,702 214,294 2% 890,027 913,212 -3%
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FCA has sent a merger proposal to Renault in what would start as an operational tie-up leading to a full merger. The proposal is a 50/50 deal that will not involve Nissan or Mitsubishi and it estimated to be worth around $33 billion. Few details have been revealed, however, Renault's board said it would issue a press release after the meeting. Rumor has it that Renault is negotiating with FCA without the approval from Nissan or Mitsubishi. If the merger does go through, it would happen over the next 12 months and the combined companies would rank 3rd in the world in terms of production, just behind Toyota and Volkswagen. One complication to the deal is the French government's 15% stake in Renault. FCA has offered a guarantee to keep existing production locations but left the door open for white-collar job cuts. This comes after FCA turned down a merger proposal from PSA back in March of this year. -
FCA has sent a merger proposal to Renault in what would start as an operational tie-up leading to a full merger. The proposal is a 50/50 deal that will not involve Nissan or Mitsubishi and it estimated to be worth around $33 billion. Few details have been revealed, however, Renault's board said it would issue a press release after the meeting. Rumor has it that Renault is negotiating with FCA without the approval from Nissan or Mitsubishi. If the merger does go through, it would happen over the next 12 months and the combined companies would rank 3rd in the world in terms of production, just behind Toyota and Volkswagen. One complication to the deal is the French government's 15% stake in Renault. FCA has offered a guarantee to keep existing production locations but left the door open for white-collar job cuts. This comes after FCA turned down a merger proposal from PSA back in March of this year. View full article
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SMART just recently announced they will be leaving the U.S. and reorienting towards China. Could Fiat be throwing in the towel in the U.S.? It could be if the signal of investment location is the tea leaf to be read. While the Fiat brand has nearly disappeared in China and rapidly fading in the US, they are targeting the Brazilian market, Europe, and emerging markets in their new 5-year plan. Fiat has been struggling in the U.S. for year, and in spite of fielding 4 models, Fiat moved just 15,521 vehicles in the U.S. in 2018, a decline of 41% over 2017. Sales continue to fall in 2019, down another 42% YTD as of April 2019. According to a report in Bloomberg, Fiat is investing $4 billion in South America to expand and build two new SUVs for the South American market. The money will go towards expanding capacity at a Jeep factory in Pernambuco to 350,000 from 250,000 per year as well as building a new factory to build engines. Fiat plans to release 15 new, refreshed, or special series vehicles in Latin America by 2024. Jeep and Ram will get an additional 10. Latin America is the only region other than North America where FCA made money in first quarter 2019, however Fiat's market share has been falling from first place in 2015 to third place today. At the same time, Jeep has been expanding in South America from near 0% share as recently as 2014. Fiat brand is most popular in Brazil. While the 5-year plan does not yet signal an exit from the U.S. market, the reorientation of resources to markets other than the U.S. could be a signal that the end could be near for Fiat brand in the U.S. -
SMART just recently announced they will be leaving the U.S. and reorienting towards China. Could Fiat be throwing in the towel in the U.S.? It could be if the signal of investment location is the tea leaf to be read. While the Fiat brand has nearly disappeared in China and rapidly fading in the US, they are targeting the Brazilian market, Europe, and emerging markets in their new 5-year plan. Fiat has been struggling in the U.S. for year, and in spite of fielding 4 models, Fiat moved just 15,521 vehicles in the U.S. in 2018, a decline of 41% over 2017. Sales continue to fall in 2019, down another 42% YTD as of April 2019. According to a report in Bloomberg, Fiat is investing $4 billion in South America to expand and build two new SUVs for the South American market. The money will go towards expanding capacity at a Jeep factory in Pernambuco to 350,000 from 250,000 per year as well as building a new factory to build engines. Fiat plans to release 15 new, refreshed, or special series vehicles in Latin America by 2024. Jeep and Ram will get an additional 10. Latin America is the only region other than North America where FCA made money in first quarter 2019, however Fiat's market share has been falling from first place in 2015 to third place today. At the same time, Jeep has been expanding in South America from near 0% share as recently as 2014. Fiat brand is most popular in Brazil. While the 5-year plan does not yet signal an exit from the U.S. market, the reorientation of resources to markets other than the U.S. could be a signal that the end could be near for Fiat brand in the U.S. View full article
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FCA US Reports April 2019 Sales; Quarterly Reporting of Sales to Start in Q3 Jeep® Grand Cherokee and Jeep Compass post new April sales records Ram pickup notches best April ever as sales rise 25 percent Overall Ram brand sales reach new high FCA US to report sales quarterly starting Oct. 1 May 1, 2019 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC notched four U.S. sales records for April, highlighting consumer demand for the company’s brands despite continued softness within the industry. FCA sold 172,900 vehicles in the month compared to 184,149 vehicles for the same period a year earlier. Retail sales accounted for 129,382 vehicles and fleet accounted for 25 percent of total sales. On a year-to-date basis, fleet accounted for 27 percent of total sales. The Jeep® Compass and Jeep Grand Cherokee both reported April records as sales rose 10 percent and 23 percent, respectively. This was the second consecutive month Grand Cherokee set a record monthly high. The Ram brand achieved its fourth consecutive month of record sales for the year, as April sales rose 25 percent to 53,811 vehicles. Ram pickup sales also had their second consecutive month of record sales with 49,106 vehicles sold. "April marks the start of the spring selling season and we anticipate strong consumer spending as we move through May,” U.S Head of Sales Reid Bigland said. "The industry may be shaking off the first-quarter sluggishness, but shoppers are coming into showrooms and buying. We sold more than 300 Jeep Gladiators, which are now starting to arrive in showrooms across the country, and we expect our Gladiator count to continue to rise, reflecting both ongoing demand and the fulfillment of the 4,190 orders taken in early April for the 2020 Gladiator Launch Edition." See the attached table for the breakdown of brand and nameplate sales.
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FCA is paying Tesla hundreds of millions of dollar to pool their vehicles with Tesla to avoid EU fines over emissions. Tesla put out an invitation to other automakers to use its fleet to lower their emissions totals and FCA took them up on it. Neither company released financial specifics of the deal, but it is estimated by the Financial Times to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Similar to California which allows manufactures with a surplus of ZEV credits to sell them to manufacturers who need them, the EU Commission allows manufacturers to pool together their fleets to avoid paying fines. Tesla makes significant money selling these credits in the US, earning $103.4m in 2018 and $279.7m in 2017. Once set up, the pool in Europe is good for several years. Vehicles in 2018 are allowed an average CO2 emission of 120.5g per kilometer. That figure will drop to 95g per kilometer next year. FCA's average for 2018 was 123g per kilometer, one of the largest off the mark of the 13 major manufacturers. FCA is seen to have fallen to near the back of the pack when in comes to reigning in CO2 emissions. FCA was forecast to be facing fines exceeding €2 billion ($2.25 billion) without pooling with Tesla. View full article -
FCA Pooling Fleet with Tesla in EU for Emissions Requirements
Drew Dowdell posted an article in Chrysler
FCA is paying Tesla hundreds of millions of dollar to pool their vehicles with Tesla to avoid EU fines over emissions. Tesla put out an invitation to other automakers to use its fleet to lower their emissions totals and FCA took them up on it. Neither company released financial specifics of the deal, but it is estimated by the Financial Times to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Similar to California which allows manufactures with a surplus of ZEV credits to sell them to manufacturers who need them, the EU Commission allows manufacturers to pool together their fleets to avoid paying fines. Tesla makes significant money selling these credits in the US, earning $103.4m in 2018 and $279.7m in 2017. Once set up, the pool in Europe is good for several years. Vehicles in 2018 are allowed an average CO2 emission of 120.5g per kilometer. That figure will drop to 95g per kilometer next year. FCA's average for 2018 was 123g per kilometer, one of the largest off the mark of the 13 major manufacturers. FCA is seen to have fallen to near the back of the pack when in comes to reigning in CO2 emissions. FCA was forecast to be facing fines exceeding €2 billion ($2.25 billion) without pooling with Tesla. -
FCA US Reports 2019 February Sales Ram brand reports record February as sales rise 24 percent. Jeep® Cherokee sets February record All new heavy-duty Ram begins to arrive in dealer showrooms Auburn Hills, Mich. March 1, 2019 FCA US LLC reported today that the Jeep® Cherokee set an all-time February sales record, despite another month of bitter weather across key selling regions for the brand. The Ram brand scored another record month as well, on the back of award-winning products in the hot light-duty and heavy-duty markets. Following 11 straight months of year-over-year sales increases, the company's overall U.S. February sales retreated 2 percent to 162,036 vehicles in a soft market, compared with sales of 165,903 vehicles in February 2018. The Jeep brand is returning to a more "normal" sales cadence after benefiting from both the new and old Wrangler coming off the production lines this time last year. "The overall industry is starting off slower due in part to weather, the U.S. government shutdown and concern over tax refunds,” U.S. Head of Sales Reid Bigland said. “We still see a strong, stable economy and anticipate any lost winter sales will be made up in the spring. For us, the Ram brand was the standout in February, and Jeep Cherokee set a February record as well." See the attached table for the breakdown of brand and nameplate sales. Method of Determining FCA US LLC’s Monthly Sales. FCA US’s reported vehicle sales represent unit sales of vehicles to retail customers, deliveries of vehicles to fleet customers and to others such as FCA US’s employees and retirees as well as vehicles used for marketing. Most of these reported sales reflect retail sales made by dealers out of their own inventory of vehicles previously purchased by them from FCA US. Reported vehicle units sales do not correspond to FCA US’s reported revenues, which are based on FCA US’s sale and delivery of vehicles, and typically recognized upon shipment to the dealer or end customer. As announced on July 26, 2016, FCA US has modified its methodology for monthly sales reporting as follows: Sales to retail customers by dealers in the U.S. are derived from the New Vehicle Delivery Report (“NVDR”) system and are determined as the sum of (A) all sales recorded by dealers during the month net of all unwound transactions recorded to the end of that month (whether the original sale was recorded in the current month or any prior month); plus (B) all sales of vehicles during that month attributable to past unwinds that had previously been reversed in determining monthly sales (in the current or prior months). Fleet sales are recorded upon the shipment of the vehicle by FCA US to the customer or end user. Other retail sales are recorded either (A) when the sale is recorded in the NVDR system (for sales by dealers in Puerto Rico and limited sales made through distributors that submit NVDRs in the same manner as for sales by U.S. dealers) or (B) upon receipt of a similar delivery notification (for vehicles for which NVDRs are not entered such as vehicles for FCA employees). US_sales_Feb_2019osv5b9gq5et3r6dni740gkn6gc.pdf
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Last year, I had the chance to spend a week in a Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. While I found it to offer improved handling and a somewhat nicer interior over the Mazda MX-5 Miata it is based on, there were a few items that kept me from saying it was better - mainly the turbo engine and exterior design. A couple of months ago, I found myself in another 124 Spider. This time, it was the Lusso which drops a fair amount of the aggression from the Abarth, along with providing a softer suspension tune. Would this model be able to change my tune? The Lusso is the polar opposite to the Abarth I drove last year in terms of looks. It is toned down with the removal of the aggressive bumpers and quad-tip exhausts. The end result is a much cleaner look. I just wished Fiat could have done more to the rear end as it still looks a bit out of place with the rest of the design. This particular Lusso is the Red Top Edition which as the name suggests has a red soft-top. I will admit this does add a touch of personality and helps the 124 Spider stand out. Not much has changed with the interior since our last review. Getting in and out is still a bit tough due to the low ride height and anyone over six-feet will feel quite cramped. The overall design is the same as the MX-5 Miata, with slight differences to the steering wheel and instrument cluster to make it slightly more Fiat-ish. Material quality is slightly higher than the Mazda, with more soft-touch materials. One issue I did discover in this go-around is the location of the 12-volt outlet. It is mounted deep in the passenger footwell, almost near the engine firewall. Finding it was not a pleasant experience as I needed to pull out my phone to act as a flashlight to find the stupid thing. Power comes from the turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir four-cylinder. Compared to the Abarth, the Lusso loses four horsepower. This is due to a more restrictive exhaust. My tester came with the optional six-speed automatic. I wish that I could say Fiat solved the engine issued I mentioned in the previous review, but they have not. The turbo engine still feels laggy on the low-end of the rpm band. Plus, the automatic transmission is tuned to quickly upshift to improve fuel economy. This leaves you without any turbo boost when you want it. I keep thinking that the six-speed manual would be slightly better as it would me control when it is time to shift, allowing the engine to be fully exploited. One trait that sets the 124 Spider apart from its Miata brethren is the suspension tuning. Fiat decided to go with a softer tune on most models - the Abarth is the exception as it gets a stiffer suspension setup. The difference is noticeable as the 124 Spider provides a slightly smoother ride than the Miata. This softening doesn’t change the handling dynamics of the Spider. It still darts into turns with minimal body roll and fast steering. The Lusso Red Top Edition sits as the flagship of the 2018 124 Spider lineup with a base price of $31,440. This comes equipped with a number of options such backup camera, Bose audio system, navigation, and heated seats as standard equipment. With destination, this vehicle comes to an as-tested price of $32,435. The Lusso model may be the sweet spot in the 124 Spider lineup as it offers a slightly smoother ride and improved interior. But Fiat still needs to address the performance of the turbo-four. It is a great alternative to the MX-5 Miata, but not better. Gallery: 2018 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso Disclaimer: Fiat Provided the 124 Spider, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2018 Make: Fiat Model: 124 Spider Trim: Lusso Engine: 1.4L MultiAir SOHC 16-Valve Four-Cylinder Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Rear-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 160 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 3,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 25/36/29 Curb Weight: 2,476 lbs Location of Manufacture: Hiroshima, Japan Base Price: $27,595 As Tested Price: $32,435 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Red Top Edition Package 22T - $2,495.00 Red Top Edition Package 2DT - $1,350.00 -
Last year, I had the chance to spend a week in a Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. While I found it to offer improved handling and a somewhat nicer interior over the Mazda MX-5 Miata it is based on, there were a few items that kept me from saying it was better - mainly the turbo engine and exterior design. A couple of months ago, I found myself in another 124 Spider. This time, it was the Lusso which drops a fair amount of the aggression from the Abarth, along with providing a softer suspension tune. Would this model be able to change my tune? The Lusso is the polar opposite to the Abarth I drove last year in terms of looks. It is toned down with the removal of the aggressive bumpers and quad-tip exhausts. The end result is a much cleaner look. I just wished Fiat could have done more to the rear end as it still looks a bit out of place with the rest of the design. This particular Lusso is the Red Top Edition which as the name suggests has a red soft-top. I will admit this does add a touch of personality and helps the 124 Spider stand out. Not much has changed with the interior since our last review. Getting in and out is still a bit tough due to the low ride height and anyone over six-feet will feel quite cramped. The overall design is the same as the MX-5 Miata, with slight differences to the steering wheel and instrument cluster to make it slightly more Fiat-ish. Material quality is slightly higher than the Mazda, with more soft-touch materials. One issue I did discover in this go-around is the location of the 12-volt outlet. It is mounted deep in the passenger footwell, almost near the engine firewall. Finding it was not a pleasant experience as I needed to pull out my phone to act as a flashlight to find the stupid thing. Power comes from the turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir four-cylinder. Compared to the Abarth, the Lusso loses four horsepower. This is due to a more restrictive exhaust. My tester came with the optional six-speed automatic. I wish that I could say Fiat solved the engine issued I mentioned in the previous review, but they have not. The turbo engine still feels laggy on the low-end of the rpm band. Plus, the automatic transmission is tuned to quickly upshift to improve fuel economy. This leaves you without any turbo boost when you want it. I keep thinking that the six-speed manual would be slightly better as it would me control when it is time to shift, allowing the engine to be fully exploited. One trait that sets the 124 Spider apart from its Miata brethren is the suspension tuning. Fiat decided to go with a softer tune on most models - the Abarth is the exception as it gets a stiffer suspension setup. The difference is noticeable as the 124 Spider provides a slightly smoother ride than the Miata. This softening doesn’t change the handling dynamics of the Spider. It still darts into turns with minimal body roll and fast steering. The Lusso Red Top Edition sits as the flagship of the 2018 124 Spider lineup with a base price of $31,440. This comes equipped with a number of options such backup camera, Bose audio system, navigation, and heated seats as standard equipment. With destination, this vehicle comes to an as-tested price of $32,435. The Lusso model may be the sweet spot in the 124 Spider lineup as it offers a slightly smoother ride and improved interior. But Fiat still needs to address the performance of the turbo-four. It is a great alternative to the MX-5 Miata, but not better. Gallery: 2018 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso Disclaimer: Fiat Provided the 124 Spider, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2018 Make: Fiat Model: 124 Spider Trim: Lusso Engine: 1.4L MultiAir SOHC 16-Valve Four-Cylinder Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Rear-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 160 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 3,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 25/36/29 Curb Weight: 2,476 lbs Location of Manufacture: Hiroshima, Japan Base Price: $27,595 As Tested Price: $32,435 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Red Top Edition Package 22T - $2,495.00 Red Top Edition Package 2DT - $1,350.00 View full article
