Mercedes 2003 Annual Report Download - page 56
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Please find page 56 of the 2003 Mercedes annual report below. You can navigate through the pages in the report by either clicking on the pages listed below, or by using the keyword search tool below to find specific information within the annual report.Divisions |Mercedes Car Group | Chrysler Group | Commercial Vehicles | Executive Automotive Committee | Services | Other Activities
Dodge brand sets new standards with Durango. Dodge contin-
ues to be one of America’s best-known and longest-running
brands. Whether sports cars, pickup trucks, SUVs or minivans,
all Dodge vehicles combine performance, tradition and style
with the brand’s unmistakable character.
An all-new Dodge Durango was launched in November 2003,
which is larger than its predecessor and provides impressive per-
formance and towing capability. Due to an improved cost situation,
we were able to reduce the base price by US $1,000 compared
with the 2003 model, in the case of the Durango SLT 4x4 the price
is actually US $2,000 lower, although the new model features a
completely new body, new engines and improved equipment. The
vehicle showed a very strong start in the market and has already
received three awards including the “Truck of the Year”. The new
Durango is manufactured at the Newark, Delaware, assembly plant,
in which the Chrysler Group has invested approximately US $180
million. Through flexible manufacturing processes and by reusing
existing plant equipment, the Chrysler Group was able to reduce
capital expenditures for this new model by 30% compared to simi-
lar model changeovers in the past. It shows that new, more flexible
manufacturing methods can be applied to existing operations, and
demonstrates how we are boosting productivity and flexibility while
further improving quality.
New Dodge vehicles in 2004 will include the Caravan minivan, the
Dakota and the all-new Dodge Magnum, a sports tourer featuring
a 5.7 liter HEMI engine and rear-wheel drive. This vehicle offers the
performance of a powerful sedan combined with the functionality
of a sport-utility vehicle.
Overall, Dodge sold 1,428,000 vehicles in 2003 (2002:
1,561,800).
Jeep®: Fun, freedom and legendary off-road ability. In a chal-
lenging market environment, Jeep®continued to enthuse
customers in 2003 with its rugged and versatile vehicles and leg-
endary off-road capability. A total of 596,200 Jeep®Grand
Cherokee, Jeep®Liberty (Cherokee outside the United States) and
Jeep®Wrangler vehicles were sold (2002: 595,600).
The Jeep®brand generates customer enthusiasm and loyalty
through relationship management and individual customer care.
For example, we offer Jeep®owners unequaled opportunities to
explore their vehicles’ off-road abilities and to share their
experience first hand with fellow Jeep®owners. One of these
opportunities is Camp Jeep®, which is among the largest and best-
attended owners’ events in the United States. It was held for the
ninth time in 2003.
The Chrysler Group will introduce the new Jeep®Wrangler
Unlimited model later in 2004. With a longer wheelbase, this
vehicle offers more space, improved off-road capability and
enhanced on-road comfort and quietness.
The most important new Jeep®model in 2004 will be the new
Jeep®Grand Cherokee, which will be available at dealerships
later in the year.
Presentation of pioneering concept vehicles. In 2003, several
concept vehicles provided a glimpse of the Chrysler Group’s
exciting model generations to come.
At the Geneva Motor Show in March, the Chrysler Group unveiled
the Chrysler Airflite concept. The Airflite blends the passion of
Chrysler design, the styling of a coupe and the practical function-
ality of a sedan to create a unique interpretation of the five-door
hatchback.
In September 2003, the Chrysler 300C Touring concept was
presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. The station-
wagon version of the Chrysler 300C shares most of its design,
powertrain and interior appointments. The 300C Touring targets
markets in Europe and is to be launched there in 2004.