New Chrysler Minivan to Be 'Stunning' Says CEO
The minivan segment may not be as popular as it used to be, but that’s not stopping Chrysler from investing in its next-generation model.
The American automaker will shut down its Windsor Assembly Plant for 12 weeks in the first half of 2015 in order to retool for production of its next-generation minivan, which Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Machionne claims is “stunning.” The company hopes that the new family hauler will start production at Windsor within 2015. The long shutdown period is to prevent a shaky launch like what the new Jeep Cherokee experienced. Currently the plan is to market one minivan under the Chrysler brand, eventually phasing out the Dodge Grand Caravan from the company’s lineup.
SEE ALSO: 2014 Minivan Comparison Test
While Japanese automakers have done well in the minivan segment with the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey, the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan models have become synonymous with the minivan segment in the U.S. In Canada, Chrysler holds nearly 70 percent of minivan sales and has no plans on giving up any market share.
GALLERY: 2014 Chrysler Town and Country
[Source: The Windsor Star]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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