News
Automotive · Chrysler · Minivan · Strategy
Chrysler Group LLC is strategically re-evaluating its pioneering minivan segment, including a potential consolidation of its Town & Country and Grand Caravan models and the development of a new versatile vehicle platform.
CEO Sergio Marchionne stated the company needs to "completely rethink the minivan" to enhance versatility, while Dodge brand President Ralph Gilles confirmed a team is studying 2011 sales before making decisions on nameplates. Chrysler, which has sold 13 million minivans since 1983 and controls about one-third of the U.S. market, plans a new multi-purpose frame by 2013 or 2014, enabling production of smaller minivans, crossovers, or cars.
The company also commits to a hybrid minivan by 2013. The 2011 Town & Country was the top-selling minivan in the U.S. last year with 112,275 units, surpassing the Honda Odyssey by approximately 4,000 sales.
