Fiat 500 - Chrysler Begins Selection for Fiat Dealers

Americans once bought a lot of Fiats. The little Italian cars were efficient and handsome, if not particularly reliable. As Chrysler’s parent, Fiat has designs once again on selling its wares in the U.S. Thankfully, these cars are beautiful and well-built. Chrysler has begun the process of selecting dealers for Fiat’s entry.
“The Fiat dealer network will be appropriately sized to serve the market opportunity,” said Peter Grady, Vice President of Network Development and Fleet, Chrysler Group LLC. “Our vision is to establish a dealer network that will reflect and enhance the brand’s reputation for innovation and fun, and will offer a unique, personalized customer experience.”

Chrysler Group would like to select dealers in 125 markets that have a high potential for growth in small cars. It is expected that Fiat stores will be located in about 41 states. Dealers wishing to sell the Italian cars will have to submit a proposal, create separate facilities to service and sell the brand, train a dedicated team, and prove they have the financial resources necessary to introduce a new brand. Chrysler’s best performing dealers will be given preference in the selection process.

No matter how many dealers sign up, Fiat will not soon have a full line of vehicles. Its first model will be a Mexican-built version of the company’s popular Fiat 500. About the size of a Mini Cooper, and styled like its 1960s ancestor, the 500 will give Chrysler dealers a fun and efficient car to help replace the PT Cruiser. Base coupes will arrive later this year and will be joined by a Cabrio in 2011. Sporty Abarth editions are expected to follow as competitors for the Mini Cooper S and Smart Brabus.

This is only a start. Chrysler’s next-generation small- and mid-size cars are expected to borrow much from European-market Fiats. This could be a fun ride for Fiat and America.
By Casey Williams - MyCarData