Create a free Manufacturing.net account to continue

Chrysler Invites Dealers To Sell Fiats

Automaker is inviting around 600 of its dealers to Detroit on Aug. 30 to learn more about the Fiat brand and decide whether they want to sell Fiats in the U.S.

DETROIT (AP) -- Chrysler Group LLC is inviting around 600 of its dealers to Detroit on Aug. 30 to learn more about the Fiat brand and decide whether they want to sell Fiats in the U.S.

Italian automaker Fiat, which owns 20 percent of Chrysler and has managed the automaker since it exited bankruptcy protection last year, is planning to bring the Fiat 500 small car to the U.S. later this year. It expects to have around 200 U.S. dealers.

Chrysler has identified 119 markets in 38 states and Puerto Rico with strong small-car registrations and growth potential in the small-car segment over the next five years. Those not included are Alaska, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Fiat wants dealers to have separate sales displays and the space to transition to a full dealership as the company brings over more products.

Chrysler, based in Auburn Hills, Mich., said dealers can submit proposals for a Fiat franchise through Sept. 22. Chrysler will announce which dealers will get franchises in the fourth quarter of this year.

More in Automotive