Mercedes 1999 Annual Report Download - page 41

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CHRYSLER GROUP
35
For the Chrysler Group division, 1999 was an all-time
record year in terms of revenues. And with several
all-new vehicles joining the lineup, continued strong
performance is expected. The division’s strongest
presence is in North America. The Chrysler Group’s
US market share in 1999 for cars and light trucks was 15%.
NORTH AMERICAN MARKET REMAINS FAVORABLE. The
continued strong growth of the US economy resulted in a
further increase in North American sales of passenger cars
and light trucks in 1999. However, the launch of many new
models and greater production capacity further intensified
competition which, in turn necessitated a higher level of sales
incentives in the industry. These developments also affected
the fast-growing SUV, pickup and minivan segments in which
the Chrysler Group is a leader.
REVENUES, SALES, OPERATING PROFIT IMPROVED. The
division achieved record revenues of €64.1 billion in 1999,
representing an increase of 14% over 1998. Of total revenues,
93% were generated in the NAFTA, 4% in Western Europe and
3% in the rest of the world. Operating profit grew faster than
revenues, rising 19% to €5.1 billion. Unit sales totaled 3.2
million (1998: 3.1 million). Mainly due to the economic crises
in South America and the slow recovery in Asia, sales outside
North America declined to 177,300, down 6% from 1998.
CHRYSLER BUILDS ON HERITAGE OF INNOVATION. Chrysler
brand unit sales grew by 3% to 455,500 vehicles in 1999,
marked by exceptional sales of the sporty 300M sedan, the
brand’s flagship. The luxurious LHS sedan and Sebring
Convertible were first in their categories in Strategic Vision’s
1999 Total Quality Awards, based on an independent research
firm’s survey of the buying, owning and driving experience of
more than 30,000 customers. Strong sales of the Chrysler
Town & Country minivan, a luxury car alternative, continued.
The 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, a blend of retro and
contemporary design, will debut in dealerships in spring 2000.
The Cruiser combines nimble city handling with the interior
space and functionality of a much larger vehicle. As a part of
the brand’s global expansion, the Chrysler 300M will be
available in Japan by mid-2000 and a right-hand-drive PT
Operating Profit
Operating Profit Adjusted
Revenues
Investments in Property,
Plant and Equipment
R & D
Production (Units)
Sales (Units)
Employees (Dec. 31)
99
US $
99 98
amounts in millions € €
5,086 5,051 4,255
5,226 5,190 4,255
64,534 64,085 56,412
5,261 5,224 3,920
2,014 2,000 1,695
3,208,566 2,982,644
3,229,270 3,093,716
129,395 126,816