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#1 · (Edited)
FCA US Belvidere Assembly Joins the Ranks of Bronze Plants in World Class Manufacturing

Recognition comes on heels of announcement that plant will build Jeep® Cherokee

Company’s Illinois assembly plant becomes 15th FCA North American facility to achieve milestone award

Award recognizes progress toward becoming World Class


July 14, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The FCA US Belvidere Assembly Plant (Ill.) received two pieces of good news today – the first confirming that it would build the Jeep® Cherokee when it moves from its current home in Toledo, Ohio, in 2017, and the second announcing that it has been awarded bronze status for its efforts to improve in World Class Manufacturing (WCM).

As the 15th North American plant to receive a bronze designation, Belvidere Assembly earned a minimum of 50 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars following a two-day audit on July 13-14, during which the plant demonstrated clear WCM know-how and competence through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects that have been implemented across the shop floor.

As the plant was finishing its audit today, the Company announced that it would invest $350 million in the Illinois facility to retool it to produce the Jeep Cherokee. Nearly 300 new jobs will be created. Production of the Dodge Dart and the Jeep Compass/Jeep Patriot will end in September 2016 and December 2016, respectively.


“Today is an exciting and important day for the Belvidere plant as these announcements solidify the plant’s future as an integral part of our industrial footprint,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America. “Not only did the employees demonstrate their commitment to implementing WCM and were recognized with the bronze designation, but the pride and integrity with which they build our vehicles has secured their plant’s position as the next production home of the Jeep Cherokee. We applaud the Belvidere workforce for both of these accomplishments and look forward to the next chapter in the plant’s history.”

The achievement of WCM award levels, as confirmed through independent audits, recognizes the long-term commitment of the workforce to making significant changes that can secure the future of a facility. Awarded plants also have a role in accelerating the implementation of WCM throughout the organization as coaches and mentors.

“Our UAW partners have embraced the WCM methodology, understanding that its implementation is essential to our long-term success,” said Harlow. “The active participation of our hourly employees, through their ideas and input, is critical to making FCA US manufacturing facilities among the best in the world.”

World Class Manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on eliminating waste, increasing productivity and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way. WCM engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a sense of ownership.

WCM was first implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009.

During an audit, zero to five points are awarded for each of the 10 technical pillars, which include safety, workplace organization, logistics and the environment, and for each of the 10 managerial pillars, such as management commitment, clarity of objectives, allocation of people, motivation of operators and commitment of the organization. A score of 85 would indicate World Class.

Of the 15 plants that have achieved bronze, three have gone on to be awarded silver - Windsor Assembly Plant (Ont.) in March 2015, Dundee Engine Plant (Mich.) in May 2015 and Toledo Assembly Complex in May 2016. The 11 facilities that currently hold the WCM bronze designation are:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Saltillo South Engine Plant (Mexico)
Trenton Engine Complex (Michigan)
Warren Stamping Plant (Michigan)
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Indiana)
Kokomo Transmission Plant (Indiana)
Kokomo Casting Plant (Indiana)
Toluca Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Sterling Stamping Plant (Sterling Heights, Michigan)
Brampton Assembly Plant (Ontario, Canada)
Tipton Transmission Plant (Indiana)


About the Belvidere Assembly Plant
Construction of the Belvidere Assembly Plant began in 1964 and the first car rolled off the line on July 7, 1965. Over the years, the plant has produced a variety of models from the Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Plymouth brands. Following the alliance between Fiat and Chrysler Group in 2009, the Company invested $700 million in the plant to construct an all-new body shop to produce the Dodge Dart, a vehicle that showcased the combined engineering and technologies of the two companies. In addition to the Dart, the plant also currently produces the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot. More than 342,500 vehicles were built in 2015. The plant employs nearly 4,300 people working a 3-2-120 operating pattern – three crews working four 10-hour days on two shifts for 120 production hours per week.

Belvidere was awarded a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Green Building System certification for meeting the highest environmental standards in April 2015. LEED, administered by the United States Green Building Council, is a comprehensive system to define, measure and validate green buildings. Certification in the national recognition program is based on strict standards in five key areas: site planning, water management, energy, material use and indoor environmental quality.
 
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#2 ·
FCA $1 billion Investments in assembly plants

FCA US Announces Investments in Illinois and Ohio Facilities

Investments in assembly plants total more than $1 billion

1,000 new jobs to be created

Plants will be retooled to support growth of Jeep® brand

Brings total U.S. investment to more than $6.8 billion with more than 23,500 jobs created since June 2009


July 14, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

FCA US LLC today announced that it will invest more than $1 billion in its assembly plants in Illinois and Ohio to retool them to support the future growth of the Jeep® brand. As a result of these investments, 1,000 new jobs will be created, subject to market conditions.

The Belvidere Assembly Plant (Ill.) will receive an investment of $350 million to produce the Jeep Cherokee, which will move from its current production location in Toledo, Ohio, in 2017. Approximately 300 new jobs will be created. Production of the Dodge Dart and the Jeep Compass/Jeep Patriot will end in September 2016 and December 2016, respectively.

The Company will also invest $700 million in the Toledo Assembly Complex (Ohio) to retool the North plant to produce the next generation Jeep Wrangler. Approximately 700 new jobs will be added. An announcement regarding the future of the South plant will be made at a later date.

These production actions are subject to the formal approval of incentives by state and local entities.

Since 2009, FCA US has announced investments of more than $6.8 billion and added more than 23,500 (including nearly 18,000 hourly) people in its U.S. operations.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements may include terms such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “could”, “should”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “remain”, “on track”, “design”, “target”, “objective”, “goal”, “forecast”, “projection”, “outlook”, “prospects”, “plan”, “intend”, or similar terms. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Rather, they are based on the current expectations and projections about future events and, by their nature, are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. They relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur or exist in the future and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on them. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed in such statements as a result of a variety of factors, including: the Group’s ability to reach certain minimum vehicle sales volumes; developments in global financial markets and general economic and other conditions; changes in demand for automotive products, which is highly cyclical; the Group’s ability to enrich the product portfolio and offer innovative products; the high level of competition in the automotive industry; the Group’s ability to expand certain of the Group’s brands internationally; changes in the Group’s credit ratings; the Group’s ability to realize anticipated benefits from any acquisitions, joint venture arrangements and other strategic alliances; potential shortfalls in the Group’s defined benefit pension plans; the Group’s ability to provide or arrange for adequate access to financing for the Group’s dealers and retail customers; the Group’s ability to access funding to execute the Group’s business plan and improve the Group’s business, financial condition and results of operations; various types of claims, lawsuits and other contingent obligations against the Group; disruptions arising from political, social and economic instability; material operating expenditures and other effects from and in relation to compliance with environmental, health and safety regulation; developments in labor and industrial relations and developments in applicable labor laws; increases in costs, disruptions of supply or shortages of raw materials; exchange rate fluctuations, interest rate changes, credit risk and other market risks; political and civil unrest; earthquakes or other disasters and other risks and uncertainties. “The Group” as used herein refers to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (the “Company“) together with its subsidiaries, or any one or more of them, as the context may require.

Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this document and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise publicly forward-looking statements. Further information concerning the Group and its businesses, including factors that could materially affect the Company’s financial results, is included in the Company’s reports and filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the AFM and CONSOB.
 
#3 ·
FCA US Tipton Transmission Plant Earns Bronze

FCA US Tipton Transmission Plant Earns Bronze in World Class Manufacturing; Recognition Achieved in Record Time

Tipton Transmission becomes fourth Indiana and 14th FCA North American facility to achieve milestone award

Award achieved in just over two years, the fastest of any North American plants

Award recognizes progress toward becoming World Class

July 12, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The FCA US Tipton Transmission Plant has been awarded bronze status for its efforts to improve in World Class Manufacturing (WCM), becoming the fastest North American plant to receive this designation.

As the Company’s newest plant, Tipton Transmission reached the bronze milestone just over two years after starting production of the new nine-speed transmission in April 2014. FCA US announced in February 2013 that it would acquire the existing Indiana facility and invest $162 million to establish a second assembly site for the nine-speed transmission, creating up to 850 new jobs. The facility now supplies transmissions for the Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler 200, Jeep® Cherokee, Jeep Renegade (produced in Italy at the Melfi Assembly Plant) and Ram ProMaster City (produced at the TOFAS plant in Bursa, Turkey).

Tipton was awarded bronze following a two-day audit on July 11 and 12 during which the plant earned a minimum of 50 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars by demonstrating clear WCM know-how and competence through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects that have been implemented across the shop floor.

This latest WCM recognition makes Tipton Transmission the fourth Indiana and 14th North American manufacturing facility to achieve bronze. Of the 14 plants, three have gone on to be awarded silver - Windsor Assembly Plant (Ont.) in March 2015, Dundee Engine Plant (Mich.) in May 2015 and Toledo Assembly Complex in May 2016.


“From the day the doors first opened, Tipton Transmission has been working diligently to not only build one of the most advanced transmissions on the market, but to implement World Class Manufacturing,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America. “As they established a new manufacturing location, launched production and on-boarded new employees, the Tipton workforce also challenged themselves to reach bronze in record time. Today’s award recognizes their hard work and dedication to integrating WCM into all aspects of the plant’s culture and achieving their goal. We extend our congratulations to all of the employees at our newest bronze plant.”

The achievement of WCM award levels, as confirmed through independent audits, recognizes the long-term commitment of the workforce to making significant changes that can secure the future of a facility. Awarded plants also have a role in accelerating the implementation of WCM throughout the organization as coaches and mentors.

“Our UAW partners have embraced the WCM methodology, understanding that its implementation is essential to our long-term success,” said Harlow. “The active participation of our hourly employees, through their ideas and input, is critical to making FCA US manufacturing facilities among the best in the world.”

World Class Manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on eliminating waste, increasing productivity and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way. WCM engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a sense of ownership.

WCM was first implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009.

During an audit, zero to five points are awarded for each of the 10 technical pillars, which include safety, workplace organization, logistics and the environment, and for each of the 10 managerial pillars, such as management commitment, clarity of objectives, allocation of people, motivation of operators and commitment of the organization. A score of 85 would indicate World Class.

In addition to the three silver plants, there are currently 10 facilities that hold the WCM bronze designation:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Saltillo South Engine Plant (Mexico)
Trenton Engine Complex (Michigan)
Warren Stamping Plant (Michigan)
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Indiana)
Kokomo Transmission Plant (Indiana)
Kokomo Casting Plant (Indiana)
Toluca Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Sterling Stamping Plant (Sterling Heights, Michigan)
Brampton Assembly Plant (Ontario, Canada)
Tipton Transmission Plant (Indiana)
 
#4 ·
$4.5 billion over 20 years

$4.5 BILLION OVER 20 YEARS
Keeping Jeep in Toledo a massive investment


July 17, 2016

Over the last 20 years, more than $4.5 billion has been invested to support Jeep production in Toledo, a staggering sum of money even for an industry that’s known to be exceptionally capital intensive.

“That’s a very, very large number when you would compare that to other places. Very few communities have seen investment in the auto industry like Toledo has,” said Paul Toth, president of the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority.

After decades of workers toiling at what became the industry’s oldest operating plant, and a serious threat in the late 1990s that Toledo could lose Jeep production altogether, the city has been repeatedly rewarded with one of the nation’s most modern and efficient automotive assembly complexes.

That title will be furthered in the coming year as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles moves forward with plans announced last week to invest $700 million to retool part of its Toledo Assembly Complex to make the next generation of the Jeep Wrangler.

The Toledo Assembly Complex began with a $1.2 billion investment, announced in 1997, to develop and build a new plant for the upcoming Jeep Liberty, which debuted in 2001. The plant later got a major expansion as part of a $2.1 billion investment in a new Wrangler, which debuted in 2006. In 2011, the complex got $500 million to support the new Jeep Cherokee, which remains in production today.

The latest investment, of $700 million, solidifies the future of Jeep in Toledo for many.

“That’s a huge capital investment and it really puts the anchor in the ground for us,” said Bruce Baumhower, president of United Auto Workers Local 12, which represents the Toledo Jeep workers. “You don’t spend that kind of money in a place and then walk away from it.”

Those series of investments over two decades came from a number of different corporate owners. The fact that they all saw value in Toledo isn’t lost on Mr. Baumhower.

“There’s been times where our companies were in trouble,” he said. “We always had some comfort in knowing we had valuable assets there for someone else to use.”

Next year, to prepare Toledo Assembly for the next Wrangler, Fiat Chrysler will ship Jeep Cherokee production to a plant in northern Illinois. That will free up space for the company to retool the north section of the assembly complex to accommodate the new Wrangler.

Finding a way to ramp up the new Wrangler while simultaneously building enough current Wranglers to satisfy what remains strong demand — sales topped 20,000 units last month for only the second time ever — was one of the most crucial points Fiat Chrysler had to address in its plans for Toledo.

It isn’t clear exactly when the retooling work will begin, though it’s likely to start sometime in the first half of next year. Industry insiders have said they expect the Toledo plant to continue building the Cherokee into next year’s first quarter.

Fiat Chrysler said only the move would happen in 2017.

A top company official recently said the next generation of the Wrangler would likely make its public debut sometime in 2017. The company has not said when the vehicle will go on sale, but it may not be in dealer lots until 2018.

That the Wrangler would stay in Toledo wasn’t exactly a secret, but last week’s announcement confirmed it.

“We’ve been working on it for a while,” said Chuck Padden, the manager of the Toledo Assembly Complex. “It’s nice to just get it out there and make it official.”

The company hasn’t fully detailed how that $700 million will be spent, though officials say transforming a plant that was building the more car-like Cherokee to make the traditional, body-on-frame Wrangler will take a lot of work, even though that plant is up-to-date.

In fact, by Fiat Chrysler’s own internal metrics, Toledo Jeep is one of the company’s best. The complex this year received a silver-status award in world class manufacturing, making Toledo the second North American assembly plant owned by Fiat Chrysler to achieve the designation and the company’s first U.S. assembly plant to do so.

With Jeep sales growing and $700 million worth of new tooling coming to Toledo soon, there’s no doubt the city’s plant has a long future.

Fiat Chrysler said an announcement regarding the future of the current Wrangler factory at Toledo Assembly will be made later.

The prevailing belief by industry insiders is that Fiat Chrysler will convert that plant to build the yet-to-be-seen Jeep pickup, which the company’s chief executive officer confirmed had been given a green light this year at the North American International Auto Show.

Mr. Toth, at the port authority, said the benefit of these investments doesn’t stop at Fiat Chrysler.

“Think about all the other companies like [automotive suppliers] Kuka and Mobis, and Toledo Molding and Die, and all these other tier-one suppliers,” he said, noting Dana Holding Corp. has committed to open a new Toledo factory. “Part of the reason is the sheer volume of Wrangler and Wrangler pickup trucks.”
SOURCE
 
#5 ·
$1.5 Billion Investment in Sterling Heights

FCA US Announces Nearly $1.5 Billion Investment in Sterling Heights Assembly Plant

Plant to be retooled to build next generation Ram 1500

Brings total U.S. investment to more than $8.3 billion with nearly 25,000 jobs created since June 2009


July 26, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

FCA US today announced that it will invest $1.48 billion in its Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (Mich.) to retool it to build the next generation Ram 1500 and support the future growth of the Ram brand.

The Company also confirmed that production of the Chrysler 200 will end in December 2016 in order to begin the transformation of the plant.

Future plans for the Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Mich.), which currently builds the Ram 1500, will be announced at a later date.

This production action is subject to the formal approval of incentives by state and local entities.

On July 14, 2016, FCA US announced a total $1 billion investment in its Toledo, Ohio, and Belvidere, Ill., assembly plants to support the future growth of the Jeep® brand.

Since 2009, FCA US has announced investments of more than $8.3 billion and added more than 25,000 (including nearly 18,000 hourly) people in its U.S. operations.
 
#6 ·
Construction underway for Chrysler supplier

Construction underway for Chrysler supplier in Belvidere

Aug. 18, 2016

BELVIDERE — Construction is underway on a 336,000-square-foot building where components for the Jeep Cherokee will be made.

About 500 people will be employed when the building opens at 725 Logistics Drive, about a mile northwest of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles factory in Landmark Townhall Industrial Park.

Officials are mum on who the tenant will be.


"I can't share who the company is," said Jarid Funderburg, executive director of Growth Dimensions, an economic development agency for Belvidere and Boone County.

"I can say it is Chrysler-related."

The Landmark Group is the developer, builder and will own the building on a long-term lease. The company could not disclose its client at this time.

Fiat Chrysler announced a shakeup of its manufacturing plants last year. In March, it said it would move the Cherokee to Belvidere from Toledo, Ohio, and cease production of the Jeep Patriot, Jeep Compass and Dodge Dart here.

That means there will be a shuffling of 12 suppliers and the 2,500 to 3,000 employees that work for them, many in buildings clustered near the plant.

Fiat Chrysler will spend $350 million to upgrade the plant for the new model, and add 300 jobs to the workforce of 4,180 hourly and 320 salaried employees.

In addition the 500 manufacturing jobs coming to Landmark's tenant, another 500 manufacturing jobs will be brought to Sager Industrial Park, two miles east of the auto plant, Funderburg said.

After the supplier shuffle, Funderburg said there will be more Fiat Chrysler-related jobs in Belvidere because of the Cherokee than there are with the three current models.

"With this type of vehicle coming here, we will have a net gain in employment," Funderburg said. "And suppliers, they're going to be doing more than assembly and sequencing; they're going to be doing manufacturing of parts."

Funderburg said Growth Dimensions has been working with Rock Valley College, the Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance and other organizations to make sure there are people trained and ready to be hired for these jobs.

But the Cherokee shift from Toledo may bring an influx of union workers from Ohio. Bruce Baumhower, president of UAW Local 12, said earlier this year that the union was working to make sure members had work after the Cherokee moved.

"We've got a lot of Cherokee suppliers here and our job now is to secure their jobs," Baumhower told WNWO-TV in Toledo in January.

"The large components of the Cherokee like the dash panels and the seats will be built in Illinois near the plant the Cherokee is moving to, but some of the other smaller components could stay here and be shipped there. However, the large parts usually need to be about 10 minutes from the plant, so that is why those jobs may leave."

SOURCE
 
#7 ·
Sterling Stamping Celebrates Production Launch

FCA US Sterling Stamping Celebrates Production Launch of Three New Stamping Presses

$166 million investment brings latest technology to 51-year-old stamping operation

New presses will increase annual capacity by 30 percent

Plant recognized as largest stamping facility in the world

More than $8.3 billion invested in U.S. operations with $3.5 billion in Michigan since June 2009


August 26, 2016 , Sterling Heights, Mich. -



The FCA US Sterling Stamping Plant celebrated the production launch of three new stamping presses during an event today attended by FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne, UAW Vice President Norwood Jewell and about 700 plant employees.

In July 2015, the Company announced a $166 million investment to bring the latest state-of-the-art stamping technology to the 51-year-old suburban Detroit facility with the installation of two extra-large High Speed Servo Tandem press lines (each 180 inches) and one large Servo Progressive press line. The last new press at Sterling Stamping was installed in 2000.



Recognized as the largest stamping facility in the world at nearly 3 million square feet, the three new press lines will increase the plant’s capacity by nearly 75,000 stampings per day or 20 million a year. Production at the plant will increase by about 30 percent, from more than 62 million stampings annually to about 82 million.


A Tandem press houses multiple presses in line in series, under which a single die is positioned in each press to perform an incremental function to make the stamped part. This advanced technology allows for maximum flexibility by enabling die changes more frequently and five times more quickly, in about 4 minutes as compared to 20 minutes with older presses.



The Servo Tandem Presses are the first presses of their kind at Sterling Stamping and are identical to the one launched at Warren Stamping (Mich.) in January 2016. The new presses improve reliability and maintainability, while at the same time reducing energy usage and increasing output rates. The press’ servo drive allows for 100 percent programmable control and movement of the ram speed at any position in the press stroke unlike a mechanical press that operates at a fixed speed. Construction of the two lines began in May 2015.

The new Servo Progressive Press is a single press with one slide in which a single die with an unlimited number of operations produces parts at a high speed directly from a single coil of steel. Installation of the progressive press began in November 2015.

Sterling Stamping is one of six facilities in the FCA North American family that stamps and sub-assembles parts from sheet metal, including hoods, roofs, liftgates, side apertures, fenders and floor pans.

Those parts are then shipped to several of the Company’s North American facilities to be welded and assembled together to form the bodies of such vehicles as:

Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Grand Caravan, Windsor Assembly Plant (Ontario)
Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jefferson North Assembly Plant (Detroit)
Dodge Dart, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot, Belvidere Assembly Plant (Ill.)
Jeep Cherokee, Toledo Assembly Complex (Ohio)
Ram Trucks, Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Mich.)
Chrysler 200, Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (Mich.)
Ram Trucks, Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico)


Including the new presses, Sterling Stamping operates a total of 19 major press lines, three blankers* and four large progressive press lines**, ranging from 400 to 4,000 ton capacity. These presses supply Sterling Stamping’s internal sub-assembly welding shop which is comprised of individual lines that are equipped with more than 720 robots. The facility currently processes nearly a half million tons of steel and 14,000 tons of aluminum annually. The plant operates on an alternative work schedule and employs 2,281.

Since June 2009, FCA US has invested over $8.3 billion in its U.S. manufacturing operations to upgrade facilities and increase capacity. Of that amount, more than $3.5 billion has been spent in Michigan.

*A blanker is a coil fed press that shears or trims aluminum or steel coil into individual blanks (rectangular cutoffs or special shapes) that are stacked and used in forming stampings, as run in individual stamping press lines.

**A progressive press line is a single press with one slide in which a single die with multiple “progressive” stations produce parts at high speed from a single coil of steel directly.
 
#8 ·
Sterling Stamping Celebrates



Published on Aug 26, 2016

Remarks from Sergio Marchionne, FCA CEO, at the FCA US Sterling Stamping celebraton of the production launch of three new stamping presses from Sterling Heights, MI.
 
#9 ·
Sterling Stamping Plant Opens New Presses



Published on Aug 26, 2016

The FCA US Sterling Stamping Plant celebrates the production launch of three new stamping presses. Stamping and assembly footage - including the new high speed servo tandem press line - comes from Sterling Stamping Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan.
 
#10 ·
Stamping parts for the next generation Jeep Wrangler

FCA US Sterling Stamping Operations to Grow with Addition of Wrangler Work

FCA CEO confirms stampings for next generation Jeep® Wrangler will be insourced to Sterling Stamping
$166 million investment brings latest technology to 51-year-old stamping operation
Announcement made during employee event to dedicate three new press lines
Plant recognized as largest stamping facility in the world
More than $8.3 billion invested in U.S. operations with $3.5 billion in Michigan since June 2009

August 26, 2016 , Sterling Heights, Mich. -

FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne (left) and UAW Vice President of the FCA US Department Norwood Jewell (right) share a laugh during a Sterling Stamping Plant (Mich.) employee event. During his remarks, Marchionne confirmed that the next-generation Jeep® Wrangler parts will be stamped in-house. The Company celebrated a $166 million investment made in July 2015 to install three new press lines.

During an event today at the Sterling Stamping Plant to dedicate three new stamping press lines, FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne announced that as a result of a $166 million investment, the sheet metal for the next generation Jeep® Wrangler will be stamped in-house, a first for the 51-year-old suburban Detroit plant.

"I'm pleased to announce today that this plant will be making all the stamping parts for the next generation Jeep Wrangler,” Marchionne told the audience of about 700, which included UAW Vice President Norwood Jewell, UAW leadership, FCA US executives and plant employees. “That work is being brought in house. We have for a long period of time had to rely on outside supply. The addition of the three presses is hopefully the beginning of a revamping of our stamping machines here.”

Recognized as the largest stamping facility in the world at nearly 3 million square feet, the three new press lines will increase the plant’s capacity by nearly 75,000 stampings per day or 20 million a year. This additional capacity will allow the plant to not only take on the new Wrangler work, but also play a bigger role in the production of the next generation Ram 1500 when it moves to its new home at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (Mich.). Production at the stamping plant will increase by about 30 percent, from more than 62 million stampings annually to about 82 million.

As part of the Company’s reorganization plan in 2009, a decision was made to close a stamping plant in Twinsburg, Ohio, leaving only two standalone stamping plants in Sterling Heights and Warren, Mich. Since then, FCA US has tripled its annual vehicle production from one million vehicles to nearly three million. The investment in the three new press lines will allow the plant to support the future growth of the Ram and Jeep brands.

Since June 2009, FCA US has invested over $8.3 billion in its U.S. manufacturing operations to upgrade facilities and increase capacity. Of that amount, more than $3.5 billion has been spent in Michigan.
 
#11 ·
FCA US Indiana Transmission Plant I Completes Local Bronze Empire

Indiana Transmission Plant I (ITPI) is fifth and final Indiana plant to earn World Class Manufacturing bronze designation

Transmission facility becomes 16th FCA North American plant to achieve milestone

Company has invested more than $1.9 billion in its Indiana operations

Award recognizes progress toward becoming World Class


September 1, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The FCA US Indiana Transmission Plant I (ITPI) achieved its World Class Manufacturing bronze designation today, the last of the five Indiana facilities to reach the milestone award level. As one of the manufacturing sites for the nine-speed transmission, ITPI plays a key role in the Company’s powertrain offensive. Since 2009, FCA US has invested more than $1.9 billion in its Indiana facilities, collectively making them the largest transmission operation in the world.

In reaching bronze status, ITPI earned a minimum of 50 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars following a two-day independent audit on Aug. 30-31. Through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects implemented across the shop floor, the plant demonstrated clear WCM know-how and competence. The designation recognizes the long-term dedication of the workforce to making significant changes that can secure the future of a facility.


“Through their tireless effort and resilient commitment to WCM, the ITPI workforce now holds the bronze designation,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America. “The dedication of these employees establishes Indiana as a bronze empire and positions the world’s largest transmission operation on a solid path to World Class status.”

In 2015, a significant year for ITPI, the plant produced more than 560,000 transmissions, while celebrating the production of the one millionth nine-speed (a recognition it shared with the Tipton Transmission Plant, which also produces the nine-speed).

“Since 2009, our UAW partners have supported the WCM methodology, understanding how critical it is to the Company’s long-term success,” said Harlow. “It is because of the active participation of our hourly employees that our manufacturing facilities continue to be recognized for eliminating waste, increasing productivity and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way.”

World Class Manufacturing, first implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009, is a methodology that engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a strong sense of ownership. Plants awarded for their efforts also have a role in accelerating the implementation of WCM throughout the organization as coaches and mentors.

During an audit, zero to five points are awarded for each of the 10 technical pillars, which include safety, workplace organization, logistics and the environment, and for each of the 10 managerial pillars, such as management commitment, clarity of objectives, allocation of people, motivation of operators and commitment of the organization. A score of 85 would indicate World Class.

Of the 16 plants that have achieved bronze, three have gone on to be awarded silver - Windsor Assembly Plant (Ont.) in March 2014, Dundee Engine Plant (Mich.) in May 2015 and Toledo Assembly Complex in May 2016. The 12 additional facilities that currently hold the WCM bronze designation are:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Saltillo South Engine Plant (Mexico)
Trenton Engine Complex (Mich.)
Warren Stamping Plant (Mich.)
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Ind.)
Kokomo Transmission Plant (Ind.)
Kokomo Casting Plant (Ind.)
Toluca Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Sterling Stamping Plant (Sterling Heights, Mich.)
Brampton Assembly Plant (Ontario, Canada)
Tipton Transmission Plant (Ind.)
Belvidere Assembly Plant (Ill.)


About Indiana Transmission Plant I

At 1.2 million square feet, ITPI began transmission production in 1998. In November 2010, FCA US announced an $843 million investment for the production of a future generation front-wheel-drive automatic transmission. Later in February 2013, the Company announced another investment of $212 million slated for Kokomo Transmission, Kokomo Casting and ITPI facilities for additional tooling and equipment to produce the eight- and nine-speed transmissions. Production of the nine-speed transmission began a few months later in May 2013.

ITPI currently produces the six-speed rear-wheel-drive transmissions for Ram trucks, Cummins Diesel and Heavy Duty, in addition to the nine-speed transmissions in all-wheel, four-wheel and two-wheel-drive configurations for the Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep® Cherokee, Jeep Renegade (produced at the Melfi, Italy, Assembly Plant), Chrysler 200 and Ram ProMaster City (produced at the TOFAS plant in Bursa, Turkey).
 
#12 ·
Warren Truck Assembly Plant

Fiat Chrysler Reevaluating Plans To Build New Jeep At Warren Assembly




Sep 12, 2016


Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is reevaluating his plans to build the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer luxury SUVs at it Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, Automotive News reports.

Warren Assembly, which has been operational since 1938, currently builds the Ram 1500 line of pickups. The Ram will move to FCA’s Sterling Heights plant once the next-generation model arrives in 2018, leaving the 3.3 million square-foot Warren site vacant.

FCA’s idea was to build the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer at Warren once the Ram had departed, but costs have thrown a wrench in the plan. Converting Warren from a body-on-frame line to a unibody line may prove to be too costly, with Marchionne saying the site is a “a very old plant ,” that needs “significant investment.”

Another option would be building the new luxury Jeep at FCA’s Jefferson North Assembly in Detroit that currently builds the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango. This would require less investment but would likely force Durango production elsewhere – potentially FCA’s Windsor Assembly plant in Ontario.

What’s clear right now is that it’s not clear where the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will be built. Marchionne’s trying, though, with the Italian-Canadian executive promising reporters the product is “still earmarked,” for production and that he will “continue to work on it.”

Read more: Fiat Chrysler Reevaluating Plans For Warren Assembly
 
#13 ·
Two FCA US Plants Join World Class Manufacturing Bronze Ranks

Mack Avenue Engine and Toledo Machining become 18th and 19th facilities, respectively, to achieve World Class Manufacturing bronze status

Mack Avenue produces award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine

Toledo Machining manufactured steering columns and torque converters shipped to plants in North America, Venezuela and China

Award recognizes progress toward becoming World Class


September 22, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The FCA US Mack Avenue Engine and Toledo Machining Plants have been awarded bronze status for their efforts in implementing World Class Manufacturing (WCM). They become the 18th and 19th North American facilities to reach the milestone award and bring to six the number of plants that have been designated bronze in 2016.

In reaching bronze status, the Detroit-based engine plant and suburban Toledo component plant earned a minimum of 50 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars following two-day independent audits held during the week of Sept. 19. Through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects implemented across the shop floor, the plants demonstrated clear WCM know-how and competence. The designation recognizes the long-term dedication of the workforce to making significant changes that can secure the future of a facility.

“The road to bronze for both of these facilities has had its challenges, but their tireless effort and resilient commitment to WCM has now been recognized and duly rewarded,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America. “Using the WCM methodology, our employees are suggesting process improvements to help eliminate waste, increase productivity and improve quality and safety, which are ultimately making our facilities more efficient.

“The involvement of our UAW partners in the implementation of WCM has been critical to the success we have achieved since 2009,” said Harlow. “Their continued commitment will ensure that the Company meets its long-term business goals and provides a secure future for all employees.”

WCM, first implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009, is a methodology that engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a strong sense of ownership. Plants awarded for their efforts also have a role in accelerating the implementation of WCM throughout the organization as coaches and mentors.

During an audit, zero to five points are awarded for each of the 10 technical pillars, which include safety, workplace organization, logistics and the environment, and for each of the 10 managerial pillars, such as management commitment, clarity of objectives, allocation of people, motivation of operators and commitment of the organization. A score of 85 would indicate World Class.

Of the 19 plants that have achieved bronze, three have gone on to be awarded silver - Windsor Assembly Plant (Ont.) in March 2014, Dundee Engine Plant (Mich.) in May 2015 and Toledo Assembly Complex in May 2016. In addition to Mack Avenue and Toledo Machining, the 14 other facilities that currently hold the WCM bronze designation are:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Saltillo South Engine Plant (Mexico)
Trenton Engine Complex (Mich.)
Warren Stamping Plant (Mich.)
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Ind.)
Kokomo Transmission Plant (Ind.)
Kokomo Casting Plant (Ind.)
Toluca Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Sterling Stamping Plant (Sterling Heights, Mich.)
Brampton Assembly Plant (Ontario, Canada)
Tipton Transmission Plant (Ind.)
Belvidere Assembly Plant (Ill.)
Saltillo Van (Mexico)
Indiana Transmission Plant I (Kokomo, Ind.)


About Mack Avenue Engine Plant
The 1.4 million-square-foot plant was purchased in 1953 by Chrysler Corporation and converted to a stamping plant in 1974. In 1992, Mack was the production home of the Dodge Viper, which moved to the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant (Detroit) in 1995. Mack Engine began producing engines in 1998. In November 2012, the Company announced that it would invest $198 million and add up to 250 new jobs at the plant to produce the award-winning Pentastar (V-6) engine. After building more than 3 million engines in 15 years, production of the 4.7-liter V-8 engine ended on April 4, 2013. Nearly 750 employees currently build three versions of the award-winning Pentastar engine – the 3.0-liter, 3.2-liter and 3.6-liter.

About Toledo Machining Plant

Toledo Machining has been supporting the Company’s transmission and assembly operations for 50 years, having started production in 1966. Since 2011, the Company has invested nearly $100 million in Toledo Machining for the production of steering columns and torque converters for the eight- and nine-speed transmissions. The plant also manufactures torque converters for the four- and six-speed transmissions. Found in a variety of Chrysler, Jeep®, Ram and Dodge products, Toledo Machining ships its components to transmission and assembly plants in North America, Venezuela and China. More than 1,000 people work at the plant.
 
#14 ·
Mich. grants FCA $4.56M for Sterling Heights investment

Mich. grants FCA $4.56M for Sterling Heights investment

September 27, 2016

Lansing — State officials on Tuesday granted Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV a performance-based grant of $4.56 million.

The Michigan Business Development Program grant was awarded in connection with the investment of more than $1.48 billion by FCA US to convert its Sterling Heights Assembly plant in Metro Detroit from unibody construction to body-on-frame to support production of the next-generation Ram 1500 pickup.


The company on Tuesday confirmed it will add 700 new jobs when production of the pickup begins at the plant. Those jobs are roughly 1,000 less than the potential workforce increase outlined by the United Auto Workers union as part of the union’s deal with the automaker in 2015.

FCA US officials said the company is “not confirming total SHAP workforce at this time,” citing it “will assess employment needs as production ramps up.” The number of new jobs in Sterling Heights likely will be determined by the number of workers who follow the Ram 1500 from Warren to Sterling Heights or if a third shift is added.

According to United Auto Worker’s 2015 contract summary for members, there’s a “potential workforce increase” of 1,751 people at the plant in Sterling Heights.

The Michigan Business Development Program is designed to provide grants, loans or other economic assistance to businesses for “highly competitive projects in Michigan that create jobs and/or provide investment.” At least 50 jobs must be created to qualify for the program, unless it is considered a “high-technology activity,” in which only 25 jobs need to be added.

The money for FCA US is about half of the maximum $10 million any one project may be given as part of the program.

State officials say the incentives helped ensure the company kept production of the pickup — currently in Warren — in Michigan, rather than other existing plants in Illinois or Ohio.

The incentives follow the Michigan Strategic Fund board approved a 15-year property tax exemption valued at $11.3 million on up to $1 billion in new equipment at the plant in July.

Production of the Chrysler 200 midsize sedan — the Sterling Heights plant’s sole product since 2010 — will end in December. The company has previously said future plans for the Warren Truck “will be announced at a later date.” According to the UAW’s 2015 contract summary for members, Warren is expected to have a new product in 2019 and a potential workforce reduction of 2,406 people.

The company employs more than 9,500 at the assembly plants in Sterling Heights and Warren, as well as supporting stamping plants.

Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne earlier this year said the new pickup will go on sale by January 2018.

Marchionne said Warren Truck Assembly plant, which builds the Ram 1500, would continue to build the current Ram 1500 for a period of time before it would “embrace the new architecture for the Grand Cherokee and the Grand Wagoneer.”

SOURCE
 
#15 ·
Chrysler supplier to open plant in Beloit, bringing 100+ jobs

Sep 28, 2016



BELOIT (WKOW) -- Toledo Molding and Die announced Wednesday it will open a plant in Beloit, creating 118 new jobs.

The supplier to Chrysler says its first Wisconsin plant will be located in the Wisconsin Stateline Industrial Park. The company will manufacture molded automotive parts for Jeep Cherokees that are set to be produced at the Fiat Chrysler plant in Belvidere, Illinois in early 2017.


Toledo Molding and Die says it's investing more than $14 million in the project. In a news release, Governor Scott Walker said of the project, “TMD had several location options in northern Illinois as well as Wisconsin, and I’m pleased that the company will soon be a part of the Rock County business community. More and more companies are realizing that the state’s pro-business climate, skilled workforce and world-class education system make Wisconsin an ideal location to expand or relocate.”

TMD President Steve Ciucci explained how the company came to its choice. “TMD selected Beloit because of its proximity to our customer, the availability and quality of the workforce, the high quality of life the region offers our employees, and the pro-business environment in the state. We look forward to a successful startup, and a long and mutually beneficial relationship with the state of Wisconsin and the Beloit/Rock County community.”

TMD is set to get up to $750,000 in business development tax credits from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) over the next three years. The actual amount of credits it gets depends on how many jobs the company creates.

SOURCE
 
#16 ·
Warren Truck Assembly Plant Becomes Newest FCA US Bronze Plant

Warren Truck Assembly Plant Becomes Newest FCA US Bronze Plant

Michigan truck plant becomes 20th North American facility to achieve bronze in World Class Manufacturing methodology

Nearly 14 million award-winning trucks have rolled off the line since 1938

Award recognizes progress toward becoming World Class


October 26, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The FCA US Warren Truck Assembly Plant has been awarded bronze status for its efforts in implementing World Class Manufacturing (WCM). It becomes the 20th North American facility to reach the milestone award and brings to seven the number of plants that have been designated bronze in 2016.

The 78-year-old suburban Detroit truck plant earned bronze after receiving a minimum of 50 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars following a two-day independent audit held on Oct. 24 and 25. The plant demonstrated clear WCM know-how and competence through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects implemented across the shop floor. The designation recognizes the long-term commitment of a workforce to making significant changes that can secure the future of a facility.


“Reaching bronze is a significant achievement as it confirms the workforce’s understanding of the WCM methodology and its dedication to implementing best practices that will make our facilities the best in the world,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America. “At Warren Truck and across our global manufacturing footprint, our employees now have the tools and resources to eliminate waste by improving processes, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety, while at the same time putting dignity into the workplace.

“Our Warren Truck workforce is to be commended for embracing WCM as a way of life,” said Harlow. “Together with the support and involvement of our UAW partners, we will ensure that the Company meets its long-term business goals and provides a secure future for all employees.”

WCM, first implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009, is a methodology that engages the employees to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a strong sense of ownership. Plants awarded for their efforts also have a role in accelerating the implementation of WCM throughout the organization as coaches and mentors.

During an audit, zero to five points are awarded for each of the 10 technical pillars, which include safety, workplace organization, logistics and the environment, and for each of the 10 managerial pillars, such as management commitment, clarity of objectives, allocation of people, motivation of operators and commitment of the organization. A score of 85 would indicate World Class.

Currently, there are three North American plants at a silver status, having been elevated from bronze after receiving a minimum of 60 points during an audit. Silver is awarded to plants that have taken a preventative approach to implementing the WCM methodology throughout the facility. The silver plants are Windsor Assembly (Ont.) awarded in March 2014; Dundee Engine (Mich.) recognized in May 2015; and Toledo Assembly Complex (Ohio) designated in May 2016.

In addition to Warren Truck, the 16 other facilities that currently hold the WCM bronze designation are:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Saltillo South Engine Plant (Mexico)
Trenton Engine Complex (Mich.)
Warren Stamping Plant (Mich.)
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Ind.)
Kokomo Transmission Plant (Ind.)
Kokomo Casting Plant (Ind.)
Toluca Assembly Plant (Mexico)
Sterling Stamping Plant (Sterling Heights, Mich.)
Brampton Assembly Plant (Ontario, Canada)
Tipton Transmission Plant (Ind.)
Belvidere Assembly Plant (Ill.)
Saltillo Van (Mexico)
Indiana Transmission Plant I (Kokomo, Ind.)
Mack Avenue Engine (Detroit)
Toledo Machining (Ohio)


About Warren Truck
The 3.3 million square-foot plant in suburban Detroit has been making trucks since 1938, including the Dodge Dakota, Mitsubishi Raider and the Ram 1500, the most award-winning light-duty pickup truck. Nearly 14 million trucks have rolled off the line in the plant’s 78 years. Warren Truck has been operating on a three crew schedule since March 2013 and employs nearly 4,500.
 
#17 ·
FCA and St. Vincent Dedicate Family Health and Wellness Center in Kokomo, Indiana

FCA and St. Vincent Dedicate Family Health and Wellness Center in Kokomo, Indiana

Indiana Governor joins FCA and St. Vincent executives in celebrating first-of-its-kind, near-site health clinic
The FCA Family Health and Wellness Center, powered by St. Vincent, established to serve FCA employees and their families at more than 22,000 people
Clinic officially opens to patients on July 30
Company anticipates improved employee health and immediate cost savings
FCA joins growing trend of large U.S. employers establishing primary care facilities

July 26, 2018 , Kokomo, Ind. -




Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, together with FCA Head of Manufacturing for North America Brian Harlow, FCA US Director of Integrated Health Care & Disability Kathleen Neal and St. Vincent Indiana Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Nalli, officially dedicated the FCA Family Health and Wellness Center, powered by St. Vincent, in Kokomo, Indiana, today. Ready to see patients on July 30, the physician-led, primary care clinic will exclusively service FCA employees and their families, totaling more than 22,000 health care members.

The clinic, the first-of-its-kind to be established by a domestic automaker, will provide a personalized experience through comprehensive primary care services and wellness programs at no cost for most FCA employees and their families in the Kokomo and Tipton areas.


“This clinic is key to helping ensure that our current and future employees receive the quality health care they need to build a strong and prosperous Indiana,” said Brian Harlow, Head of Manufacturing, FCA – North America. “Our employees will benefit from a dedicated and caring staff, 90 percent of whom are from Kokomo and several who have family members working for FCA. For the staff, this work is personal.”

Guests met the “homegrown” staff and toured the clinic after officials cut the ceremonial ribbon.

“Making health care available where people work removes a barrier for improving overall health for employees and their families,” said Governor Holcomb. “It’s more convenient, it’s more affordable, and it has tremendous potential to improve quality of life and attract top talent and investment to this part of the state.”

St. Vincent, part of the Ascension health care organization, was selected to operate the clinic. Dedicated to serving Indiana’s residents for more than 126 years, St. Vincent will offer FCA employees and their families access to not only primary care providers and wellness services through this new clinic, but also to local specialists at St. Vincent Kokomo and other sites of care across the integrated St. Vincent health system.

“St. Vincent has been actively reimagining how health care is delivered by collaborating and creating new avenues for patients to access convenient options for care when needed – for anything from a sore throat to a serious health problem,” said Jonathan Nalli, Chief Executive Officer, St. Vincent. “St. Vincent shares FCA’s commitment to wellness and champions preventive care and the importance of catching health conditions early, when treatment has the best chance of being effective. Near-site health clinics like the FCA Family Health & Wellness Center, powered by St. Vincent, are key to making preventive more accessible so we can improve health outcomes in Indiana.”

FCA established the Kokomo clinic to create a more personalized and distinct health care experience, in addition to addressing high per capita health care costs and a shortage of primary care physicians in Indiana.

“Approximately 40 percent of our employees do not have a primary care physician, meaning many of them are visiting emergency rooms and urgent care facilities for proactive or preventative treatment,” said Kathleen Neal, Director of Integrated Health Care & Disability, FCA US. “This clinic represents the shared vision of FCA and St. Vincent by offering our workforce a convenient, high quality and, most importantly, personalized treatment option. In so doing, it is our goal to have a lasting impact on the health of not only our workforce, but the entire community.”

The FCA Family Health and Wellness Center will administer a holistic approach to health across lifestyle, fitness and access to a fully integrated health care system. The clinic will provide a perfect venue for managing chronic conditions such as hypertension. The clinic staff will consist of doctors, nurses, medical assistants, dietitians, exercise physiologists and behavioral health specialists. Staff will also include a physical therapist, x-ray technician, pharmacist, chronic disease manager and patient health advocate. In addition, the clinic will offer phone interpreting and translation services as needed.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, U.S. health care prices have increased a staggering 21.6 percent since 2008, driving companies to identify creative approaches to manage these costs, including developing near-site health clinics. FCA joins a growing trend where 30 percent of large U.S. employers have created clinics as a means of improving employee health and generating related cost savings.

Located at 1765 East Lincoln Road, the clinic is centrally located to the five FCA plants in the area, which comprise one of the largest automotive transmission complexes in the world. Employees interested in scheduling an appointment should call (765) 236-8380 or visit fcawellnesscenter.com.

About FCA Health and Wellness
A long-established innovator in providing programs and services to support the health and wellness of employees and their families, FCA has been recognized nine consecutive years by the National Business Group on Health for programs that enable a healthy workplace and encourage healthy lifestyles for both employees and their families. FCA is committed to "4URHLTH," a program designed to support overall well-being that empowers employees and their families with access to comprehensive tools and resources for leading healthier lifestyles.

Since 1985, the Company’s wellness program has evolved to meet the needs of employees and their families. In the fall of 2008, the Company opened an on-site health clinic and pharmacy inside its Auburn Hills, Michigan, headquarters, providing nearly 12,000 Chrysler employees and contractors with convenient access to high-quality medical care. Today, FCA provides a variety of integrated health plans with preventive services. This comprehensive approach to supporting employee well-being includes access to a variety of health-related resources, including UAW benefit representatives, a Health Advocate for salaried employees, an Employee Assistance Program representative for all employees, on-site medical departments, 25 dedicated wellness staff members and many on-site fitness centers.

About FCA Indiana Transmission Operations
Since 2009, FCA US has committed investments of more than $1.9 billion and added more than 4,100 new jobs to its Indiana transmission operations. The five Kokomo- and Tipton-area manufacturing plants (Kokomo Transmission, Kokomo Casting, Indiana Transmission I and II, and Tipton Transmission) produce the four-, six-, eight- and nine-speed transmissions, powering the Company’s three newest vehicles: the all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler, 2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2019 Ram 1500. In addition, Tipton is the manufacturing site for the innovative eFlite dual-motor electrically variable transmission that powers the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the most efficient minivan of all time.

About St. Vincent
In Indiana, Ascension’s St. Vincent operates 20 hospitals in addition to a comprehensive network of affiliated joint ventures, medical practices and clinics that cover a 57-county area and employ more than 15,000 associates. Across the state, St. Vincent provided more than $268 million in community benefit and care of persons living in poverty in fiscal year 2017. Serving Indiana for 136 years, Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. Ascension is the largest non-profit health system in the U.S. and the world’s largest Catholic health system, operating 2,600 sites of care – including 153 hospitals and more than 50 senior living facilities – in 22 states and the District of Columbia. Visit www.stvincent.org.
 
#18 ·
FCA US Tipton Transmission Plant Celebrates Silver Award

FCA US Tipton Transmission Plant Celebrates Silver Award in World Class Manufacturing

Indiana facility’s award brings total number of silver plants in North America to 10
Progress in WCM, accelerating with five plants achieving silver since January
Tipton first transmission plant to receive silver designation
Award recognizes continued progress toward becoming World Class


July 17, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The FCA US Tipton Transmission Plant becomes the latest plant to be designated silver in the Company’s World Class Manufacturing (WCM) methodology. Recognized for its efforts in expanding the implementation of WCM principles, the Indiana facility is the Company’s 10th North American manufacturing location overall and fifth plant since January to achieve the milestone award.

WCM is the structured and rigorous FCA production methodology designed to make plants more flexible and competitive by eliminating waste, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way. First implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009, WCM principles are applied to all aspects of the plant organization, from quality to maintenance, cost control to logistics, with the goal of continuous improvement. WCM also engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a sense of ownership.

Tipton Transmission was awarded silver following a two-day audit during which they earned a minimum of 60 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars. Employees demonstrated clear WCM know-how and competence through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects that have been expanded across the shop floor.

“I want to applaud the team at Tipton for dedicating themselves to achieving silver just two years after receiving bronze,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America. “This award is not only significant for Tipton, but also for FCA US. With five plants earning silver since January, it demonstrates that the pace of WCM implementation is accelerating as our employees continue to develop a deeper understanding of the methodology and share their knowledge with others.

“WCM has changed the culture in our plants by recognizing that our employees are important to our success, which has also helped create a new spirit of cooperation, based on mutual respect and a focus on our shared future,” said Harlow.

The achievement of WCM award levels, as confirmed through independent audits, recognizes the long-term commitment of the workforce to making significant changes that can secure the future of a facility. Awarded plants also have a role in accelerating the implementation of WCM throughout the organization as coaches and mentors.

During an audit, zero to five points are awarded for each of the 10 technical pillars, which include safety, workplace organization, logistics and the environment, and for each of the 10 managerial pillars, such as management commitment, clarity of objectives, allocation of people, motivation of operators and commitment of the organization. A score of 80 would indicate World Class.

In addition to Tipton, the nine other FCA North American facilities that have been designated silver are: Windsor (Ontario) Assembly Plant, Dundee (Michigan) Engine Plant, Toledo (Ohio) Assembly Complex, Saltillo (Mexico) South Engine Plant, Mack Avenue (Detroit) Engine Plant, Saltillo (Mexico) Van Assembly Plant, Warren (Michigan) Stamping, Toledo (Ohio) Machining and Sterling Stamping (Sterling Heights, Michigan). Windsor Assembly was the first plant to reach silver status, an honor they received in March 2014. The four plants to achieve silver so far in 2018 are Saltillo Van, Warren Stamping, Toledo Machining and Sterling Stamping.

In addition to the 10 silver plants, there are an equal number of facilities that currently hold the WCM bronze designation:

Saltillo (Mexico) Truck Assembly
Trenton (Michigan) Engine Complex
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Indiana)
Kokomo (Indiana) Transmission Plant
Kokomo (Indiana) Casting
Toluca (Mexico) Assembly
Brampton (Ontario) Assembly
Belvidere (Illinois) Assembly
Indiana Transmission Plant I (Kokomo, Indiana)
Warren (Michigan) Truck Assembly


About Tipton Transmission

In February 2013, FCA US announced that it would acquire an existing facility in Tipton, Ind., and invest $162 million to establish an additional assembly site for the nine-speed transmission, creating up to 850 new jobs. Production of the nine-speed transmission began in April 2014. The plant currently employs nearly 950 people. Tipton was the fastest plant to achieve bronze status, a recognition they received in July 2016.

About FCA US LLC

FCA US LLC is a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It designs, manufactures, and sells or distributes vehicles under the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brands, as well as the SRT performance designation. The Company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. FCA US is building upon the historic foundations of Chrysler Corp., established in 1925 by industry visionary Walter P. Chrysler and Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (F.I.A.T.), founded in Italy in 1899 by pioneering entrepreneurs, including Giovanni Agnelli. FCA US is a member of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) family of companies. (NYSE: FCAU/ MTA: FCA).

FCA is an international automotive group listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FCAU” and on the Mercato Telematico Azionario under the symbol “FCA.”
 
#19 ·
Toledo Machining Plant to Build Key Component for First Plug-in Hybrid Jeep®

FCA US Toledo Machining Plant to Build Key Component for First Plug-in Hybrid Jeep®

Ohio plant will build critical Power Electronics module for Jeep® Wrangler PHEV
Company will bring in new work, advanced technology to 54-year-old plant
Wrangler PHEV to launch in 2020; one of more than 30 nameplates with electrified solutions by 2022

August 16, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

FCA US announced today that it has awarded the production of the Power Electronics module for the Jeep® Wrangler PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) to its Toledo Machining Plant, positioning the 54-year-old Ohio facility to play a key role in helping the Company meet future regulatory requirements.

As part of the Capital Markets Day presentation on June 1, 2018, FCA committed to expanding its electrified propulsion systems in global architectures spanning the full range of vehicle segments. The Jeep Wrangler PHEV, which is expected to launch in 2020, will be one of more than 30 vehicle nameplates with electrified solutions by 2022.


“The insourcing of this highly advanced work to Toledo Machining is a reflection of the commitment the workforce has made to improving their processes through the implementation of World Class Manufacturing,” said Brian Harlow, Head of Manufacturing, FCA North America. “As the most iconic of the Jeep nameplates, it is critical that we flawlessly execute the launch of the Wrangler PHEV. The Toledo Machining employees have made a strong business case as to why we should put our faith in them to deliver a great product.”

The Power Electronics module for the Wrangler houses two key electrified powertrain components - the Power Inverter Module and the Integrated Dual Charger Module, which consists of the On Board Charger and the DC/DC Converter. The Power Electronics module is packaged in a protective structure under the vehicle between the exhaust and the prop shaft. Toledo Machining will assemble the sub-systems for the module, upload the applicable software for the Power Inverter Module, and also conduct final testing on the coolant and electrical systems. Finished modules will be delivered to the Toledo Assembly Complex where the Wrangler PHEV will be assembled.

Nearly 850 Toledo Machining employees currently produce steering columns and torque converters for a number of FCA production locations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

About Toledo Machining

Construction of the Perrysburg, Ohio, facility began in 1964 with production following two years later in 1966. Since 2011, the Company has invested nearly $92 million to produce steering columns, and torque converters for the eight-speed rear-wheel-drive and nine-speed front-wheel-drive transmissions in the 1.2-million-square-foot plant.

Toledo Machining was awarded silver status for its results in implementing World Class Manufacturing (WCM) in June 2018. WCM is a methodology that focuses on eliminating waste, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way. It engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants. Toledo Machining was awarded bronze status in September 2016.
 
#20 ·
Chrysler: Company boosts transmission production

Chrysler: Company boosts transmission production

09/03/2018

Out with the old. In with the new.

That’s the hope at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' Indiana Transmission Plant II on north Ind. 931.

In August, the 600,000-square-foot facility put out its last five-speed transmission after 15 years of production. FCA now has shuttered most of the plant that has manufactured the part for some of the company’s most popular vehicles.

However, a section of the factory is still being used by a small team of workers to produce components for eight-speed transmissions.

There were 491 hourly employees when the plant was producing the five-speed. Of those, 313 hourly employees have been transferred to other facilities since the wind down, and the remaining workers have stayed on at the plant making the components for the eight-speed.

Brian Harlow, head of manufacturing for FCA-North America and a Tipton County native, said the move to stop making five-speed transmissions has been in the works for some time.

“It’s been a very good transmission for us – the five-speed, four-wheel drive,” he said. “Those transmissions made lots of vehicles, but they’re just outdated.”


Harlow said the five-speed transmission was most recently used in the Jeep Wrangler, but a new version of the popular all-terrain vehicle is set to launch that uses an eight-speed transmission. FCA stopped producing the five-speed Wrangler in March.

But, Harlow said, the fact ITP II is no longer producing transmissions isn’t bad news. In fact, it could end up being a boon for the city.

That’s because FCA now has a large amount of factory space available in Kokomo that could be home to the company’s next new transmission line.

Harlow said what that production line might look like is still unknown, but it likely will be based on electric-vehicle technology or a move to reduce vehicle emissions.

“Whatever, in time, replaces our products, we need space to install the new,” he said. “This allows us now to do that, which is a good thing, because it reduces the investment for the next thing coming. The space already exists ... and we’ve got the people here.”

Construction of the ITP II facility began in 2002, and the plant launched production in November 2003.

BOOSTING OUTPUT

Harlow said, although the facility has been mostly shuttered, the number of workers in Kokomo and Tipton has actually increased, and the former workers at ITP II now have been transferred to one of the other plants to make more of the eight- and nine-speed transmissions, which this year are being produced at an all-time high for the company.

That’s thanks to record sales in July of both Jeep and Ram vehicles, which are powered by Kokomo-built transmissions.

SOURCE
 
#21 ·
FCA US Jefferson North Assembly Plant Earns World Class Manufacturing

FCA US Jefferson North Assembly Plant Earns World Class Manufacturing Bronze Award
Motor City’s Only Assembly Plant Awarded for Process Improvements and Employee Engagement


Bronze designation signifies a more flexible, efficient plant
Jefferson North joins 11 other FCA North American facilities in bronze ranks
Progress in WCM continues with six plants achieving award levels since January
More than 5,000 Jefferson North employees produce the Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT and Dodge Durango


November 15, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The Jefferson North Assembly Plant is the latest FCA US facility to be recognized for its efforts in eliminating waste, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety.

The only auto assembly plant located completely within the city of Detroit was awarded a bronze designation in the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) methodology on Nov. 14, 2018. It becomes FCA’s 12th North American facility to currently hold bronze and the Company’s sixth facility to reach an award level since January of this year.


The designation recognizes the long-term commitment of more than 5,000 Jefferson North employees to making significant improvements in how they build the Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT and Dodge Durango.

What is WCM?

WCM is a structured and rigorous production methodology designed to make plants more flexible and competitive. Its principles are applied to all aspects of the plant, from quality to maintenance, cost control to logistics, with the goal of reaching zero accidents, zero waste, zero breakdowns and zero inventory. The WCM methodology is unique in that it engages the workforce to create and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a sense of ownership. Independent audits are conducted throughout the year to assess WCM know-how and competence as demonstrated during employee-conducted presentations and a review of projects that have been executed across the plant.

Why is WCM Important?
Because the focus of WCM is to eliminate waste of all kinds, it is key to reducing the impact of the FCA production processes. It means using resources wisely, making all FCA facilities more productive and creating clean, ergonomically-friendly workstations for employees. WCM recognizes that the employees are important to achieving the Company’s business objectives.

Quotes
“Achieving bronze is a well-deserved honor for the team at Jefferson North. As we have been retooling and shifting production at other plants, Jefferson North has been running virtually non-stop to build some of our most popular vehicles. Our Jefferson North workforce is to be commended for its dedication to applying WCM principles to improve the plant’s operations and embracing it as a way of life.”

- Brian Harlow, Vice President – Manufacturing, FCA North America.

“Our Jefferson North workforce is the reason why this plant is being recognized with the WCM bronze designation. Their drive to continuously improve our processes to build the best vehicles possible for our customers speaks to the character of our employees.”

- Zach Leroux, Plant Manager – Jefferson North Assembly Plant, FCA US

“It’s a great achievement. It was a lot of hard work. Working together as a team, we achieved Bronze.”

- Wade Hills, UAW Joint Safety Pillar Lead – Jefferson North Assembly Plant, FCA US

“We engaged the employees. We had people on the floor asking how they can help the plant achieve Bronze.”

- Caron Recker, WCM Lead – Jefferson North Assembly Plant, FCA US

World Class Manufacturing Facilities
There are 10 FCA North American plants that have been designated silver, five* of which have been awarded in 2018:


Windsor (Ontario) Assembly Plant
Dundee (Michigan) Engine Plant
Toledo (Ohio) Assembly Complex
Saltillo (Mexico) South Engine Plant
Mack Avenue (Detroit) Engine Plant
Saltillo (Mexico) Van Assembly Plant*
Warren (Michigan) Stamping*
Toledo (Ohio) Machining*
Sterling Stamping (Sterling Heights, Michigan)*
Tipton Transmission Plant*


In addition to Jefferson North, there are 11 facilities that currently hold the WCM bronze designation:

Saltillo (Mexico) Truck Assembly
Toluca (Mexico) Assembly
Trenton (Michigan) Engine Complex
Brampton (Ontario) Assembly
Indiana Transmission Plant II (Kokomo, Indiana)
Belvidere (Illinois) Assembly
Kokomo (Indiana) Transmission Plant
Indiana Transmission Plant I (Kokomo, Indiana)
Kokomo (Indiana) Casting
Warren (Michigan) Truck Assembly
CPK Interiors, Port Hope (Ontario)

About Jefferson North Assembly Plant

1991: Began construction on the plant
1992: Produced the first Jeep Grand Cherokee
1999: Underwent an expansion
2010:
May: Started production of the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
July: Began second shift of production
December: Started production of the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango, the first Dodge ever to be produced at Jefferson North
2012:
January: Announced addition of a third crew (1,100 jobs)
October: Third crew began
2013: Celebrated the 5M vehicle produced, a Billet Silver 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which was donated to the USO
2016: Produced its 6M vehicle, a 75th anniversary 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee in Granite Crystal


About FCA US LLC

FCA US LLC is a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It designs, manufactures, and sells or distributes vehicles under the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brands, as well as the SRT performance designation. The Company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. FCA US is building upon the historic foundations of Chrysler Corp., established in 1925 by industry visionary Walter P. Chrysler and Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (F.I.A.T.), founded in Italy in 1899 by pioneering entrepreneurs, including Giovanni Agnelli. FCA US is a member of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) family of companies. (NYSE: FCAU/ MTA: FCA).

FCA is an international automotive group listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FCAU” and on the Mercato Telematico Azionario under the symbol “FCA.”

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#22 ·
FCA US Jefferson North Assembly Plant



Nov 15, 2018
Jefferson North is the latest FCA US facility to be recognized for its efforts in eliminating waste, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety.
 
#23 ·
Toledo Assembly Complex - North Plant, Toledo, Ohio



Nov 17, 2018

The Stickney Plant was built in 1942 and acquired from Autolite in 1964 for use as a machining and engine plant. In 1981, it was converted for vehicle production, building the Jeep Grand Wagoneer until the summer of 1991. The facility became the Toledo Assembly Plant when Chrysler Corporation acquired American Motors Corporation (AMC) in August 1987. In the fall of 1997, Toledo North Assembly Plant was built for the production of the Jeep Liberty, which launched in April 2001. The 2007 Dodge Nitro launched in August 2006 and the 2008 Jeep Liberty launched in July 2007. The last Dodge Nitro rolled off the line on Friday, Dec. 16, 2011. Production of the Jeep Liberty ended on Aug. 16, 2012. The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee began production on June 24, 2013. In November 2011, the Company announced that it would invest $500 million in the Toledo North Plant. A 260,000-square-foot expansion was added to the existing body shop and upgrades were made to all other areas of the assembly plant. In addition, a state-of-the-art, 26,000-square-foot Metrology Center was built to help improve vehicle quality by verifying key measurements to ensure accurate fit and finish. The Company also announced that it would add a second shift of production or about 1,100 jobs at Toledo North in the third quarter of 2013. The second shift began on Aug. 19, 2013. The Toledo Supplier Park was built in 2005 for the production of the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. The complex includes body and chassis operations in partnership with Kuka and OMMC, respectively, in buildings on the same site as Toledo North Assembly and the former Stickney Assembly. The paint shop was originally run in partnership with Magna, but in the first quarter of 2011, the Company assumed responsibility for paint operations. Production of the 2011 Jeep Wrangler began in August 2010. The last Wrangler JK rolled off the line on April 27, 2018, after building 2,165,678 of the iconic Jeep model. FCA US announced on July 14, 2016, that it would invest $700 million in Toledo's North plant to produce the next generation Jeep Wrangler. Approximately 700 new jobs will be added. To make room for the new Wrangler, production of the Jeep Cherokee ended on April 6, 2017. Since its introduction in 2013, 949,151 Cherokees rolled off the Toledo assembly line. Production of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler began in December 2017. On Jan. 8, 2017, the Company confirmed that it would invest another $1 billion to retool and modernize Toledo's South plant to build an all-new Jeep pickup truck as well as the Warren Truck Assembly Plant to produce the all-new Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. These actions are planned to be completed by 2020. More than 2,000 jobs will be added to support production of these models.
 
#24 ·
Mopar Virginia PDC Awarded Bronze Status

Mopar Virginia PDC Awarded Bronze Status in World Class Logistics

Mopar Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Winchester, Virginia, reaches Bronze status in World Class Logistics (WCL) program
Mopar Winchester PDC is second in North America to reach WCL Bronze status
WCL program recognizes facilities that meet set technical and managerial pillars in reducing waste and improving quality
Mopar PDC in Center Line, Michigan, also awarded WCL Bronze status earlier this year
Mopar Winchester PDC one of two opened in U.S. in 2017
Mopar global network features 50-plus PDCs worldwide


November 30, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

The Mopar Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Winchester, Virginia, recently received notification that the facility has earned Bronze status in the prestigious World Class Logistics (WCL) program, which recognizes facilities that achieve set technical and managerial pillars in reducing waste and improving quality.

The Mopar Winchester PDC is the second FCA distribution unit in North America to receive WCL Bronze status honors, and just the third worldwide to earn the prestigious honor. Earlier this year, the Center Line PDC, located in Metro Detroit, earned WCL Bronze level recognition.

The WCL methodology provides a blueprint, using 10 technical and 10 managerial key metrics, for FCA distribution operations to follow in order to function more efficiently and cost effectively.

“At Mopar, we hold ourselves to the highest standards and we are extremely proud of the employees at the Winchester PDC who contributed to reaching WCL Bronze status,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Parts & Service (Mopar) and Passenger Car Brands, FCA - North America. “Including our Center Line facility in Michigan, this is the second Mopar PDC in six months to earn WCL Bronze recognition, which is proof of our commitment to delivering the most productive parts distribution processes to better serve our dealers and customers.”

The Winchester, Virginia, PDC received the WCL Bronze Award following a two-day audit conducted by Thomasz Gebka, Lead Auditor and Plant Manager at Belvidere (Illinois) Assembly, along with co-auditor May-Leng Yau-Patterson, Head of Mexico World Class Manufacturing (WCM) Operations.

The Winchester facility has been able to reduce operating costs through continuous improvement projects and effectively expand its systematic pillars of Safety, Workplace Organization, Autonomous Maintenance, Professional Maintenance and Logistics & Customer Service, far exceeding the WCL Bronze level criteria of 30 percent extension. The Winchester PDC was also ranked high in benchmarking metrics in regards to the quality of warehouse parts “picking.”

The Winchester PDC, which opened in 2017, demonstrated rapid progression in earning WCL Bronze status. The quick recognition was thanks in the large parts to efforts undertaken during the construction and development phase of the PDC to ensure it was designed to meet WCL technical and managerial pillars.

The 400,000-plus-square-foot Winchester PDC represents more than 70 jobs over two shifts. The facility handled 386,951 inbound tasks and 2,066,681 outbound tasks last year alone. The Winchester location was one of two new Parts Distribution Centers opened in the U.S. in 2017, encompassing a combined investment of $22.6 million by FCA US.

The Mopar global network includes more than 50 PDCs around the world. The historic Fiat plant in Rivalta, located near Turin in Italy, was recently announced as the planned site of a Mopar PDC serving Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA) and additional world markets.

About Mopar

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) is the service, parts and customer-care brand for FCA vehicles around the globe. Born in 1937 as the name of a line of antifreeze products, the Mopar brand has evolved over more than 80 years to represent both complete care and authentic performance for owners and enthusiasts worldwide.

Mopar made its mark in the 1960s during the muscle-car era, with Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use, and expanded to include technical service and customer support. Today, the Mopar brand’s global reach distributes more than 500,000 parts and accessories in over 150 markets around the world. With more than 50 parts distribution centers and 25 customer contact centers globally, Mopar integrates service, parts and customer-care operations in order to enhance customer and dealer support worldwide.

Mopar is the source for genuine parts and accessories for all FCA US LLC vehicle brands. Mopar parts are engineered together with the same teams that create factory-authorized specifications for FCA vehicles, offering a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. Complete information on the Mopar brand is available at www.mopar.com.
 
#25 ·
FCA US Sheds Light on “Smart” LEDs

Brightening the New Year: FCA US Sheds Light on “Smart” LEDs

LEDs with wireless controls now at two manufacturing facilities, enabling automated energy management
More than half of its manufacturing facilities, two Mopar Parts Distribution Centers and 87 dealerships now lit with LED fixtures


January 7, 2019 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -

FCA US LLC rings in 2019 on a bright note after installing intelligent lighting systems in two metro Detroit operations, Jefferson North Assembly Plant and Warren Stamping Plant, helping drive down energy costs by at least 50 percent and improving employee productivity by making the spaces responsive to the needs at each workspace.

“Making the move now to the most advanced LED lights with wireless control capabilities gives us the ability to track our real-time consumption and react, respond and customize our energy use quicker than ever before,” said Kevin Dunbar, corporate energy manager at FCA US LLC. “LEDs also mimic natural light, which has shown to increase our employees’ comfort and productivity. This transition is just one element that helps modernize our operations while also reducing our environmental footprint and operational costs.”




The sensors “talk” with each other via a wireless network and can adjust illumination based on occupancy needs or the intensity needed in the specific location. The sensor-based digital network creates a smart building that runs on autopilot, reducing operating expenses and increasing business efficiencies for the operations teams.

Additional HighLIGHTS

The Company has now retrofitted more than half of its manufacturing facilities, two Mopar Parts Distribution Centers and 87 dealerships with more than 35,000 LED fixtures:

The 5-million-square-foot Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan is lit by 12,000 LEDs, making it one of the largest LED retrofits in the manufacturing industry. The installation reduced energy use by 34 percent.

Through the “FCA Bright Initiative” launched in 2017, the Company has now transformed 87 FCA dealerships with indoor and outdoor LED lighting solutions to provide customers and dealership employees with a brighter and safer environment at night. The initiative can slash a dealership’s total electricity costs by up to 50 percent.

The two newest U.S.-based Mopar Parts Distribution Centers in Romulus, Michigan, and Winchester, Virginia, use more than 2,800 LED lights.

Commitment to Energy Reduction
By 2020, FCA aims to achieve a 30 percent reduction in energy consumed per vehicle produced versus 2010 at mass-market vehicle assembly and stamping plants worldwide. By the end of 2017, FCA’s energy consumption was down 24 percent compared with 2010.
 
#26 ·
FCA Pentastar Production Hits 10 Million

FCA Pentastar Production Hits 10 Million

Award-winning Pentastar engine family comprises six variations in three displacements that power half of all vehicles produced for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram and Ram Commercial lineups
Soon to be available in 16 FCA models across five brands and 10 vehicle segments†
Highly flexible design has enabled timely evolution with seamless integration of advanced technologies – from two-step variable valve lift to hybridization
3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 contributes to 11 best-in-class U.S.-market fuel-economy ratings across four vehicle segments,† along with six unsurpassed ratings in three segments†
Best-selling engine in Canada, with its subarctic climate, for six years running
Introduced in model-year 2011, Pentastar replaced seven engine families, benefiting FCA with significant economies of scale


February 13, 2019 , Trenton, Mich. -

The 10-millionth Pentastar engine was produced here today at FCA US LLC’s Trenton Engine Complex.

Introduced as a 3.6-liter V-6 in 2010, the Pentastar engine family has accounted for six placings among the prestigious annual list of Wards 10 Best Engines and currently comprises six fuel-saving variations that feature technologies from Variable Valve Lift (VVL) to hybridization.

Acclaimed for it silky, torque-rich performance, today’s 3.6-liter Pentastar is the common denominator among 11 current best-in-class fuel-economy ratings for U.S.-market, gasoline-powered vehicles equipped with V-6 engines. (See below.) These are in addition to its ownership of the all-time minivan-efficiency mark, achieved in Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid.

Pentastars currently account for half the combined total of engines that power Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram and Ram Commercial vehicles. And with this year’s launch of the 2020 Jeep Gladiator pickup, they will be available in 16 models across 10 vehicle segments.†

“The Pentastar family has all the hallmarks of an enduring icon,” said Bob Lee, Head of Engine, Powertrain and Electrified Propulsion, and Systems Engineering, FCA – North America. “We upped the ante among high-volume, mainstream-market, V-6 engines. And our customers won big.”

Pentastar design distinguishes itself with innovative features ranging from a completely integrated exhaust manifold, to environmentally friendlier oil-filter cartridges made from paper. And with little or no modification, Pentastar engines can accommodate longitudinal or transverse mounting; front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive architectures; as well as automatic and manual transmissions.

Within four years of launch, this flexibility helped FCA replace seven six-cylinder engine families with a single V-6 design that lends responsiveness and fuel efficiency to every vehicle in which it is offered. These two attributes were key targets for the 2015 introduction of an upgraded 3.6-liter Pentastar, which boasts cooled exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) for greater efficiency, particularly under high load situations.

Further, the second-generation 3.6-liter Pentastar delivers a torque boost of up to 14.9 percent at engines speeds below 3,000 rpm – where torque really counts. FCA US also enhanced fuel economy and refinement with the addition of two-step variable valve lift (VVL).

Said Lee: “Pentastar engines do exactly what they were engineered to do. They deliver satisfying experiences in a wide range of driving conditions.”

In Canada, where most of the country’s climate is classified as subarctic, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 is the best-selling engine for six years running.

For the 2019 Ram 1500 full-size pickup, the second-generation 3.6-liter Pentastar was adapted to accommodate the eTorque mild-hybrid system. It not only adds fuel-saving stop-start functionality that is seamless, it increases available torque, in short bursts, by up to 90 lb.-ft.

The eTorque-equipped Pentastar is also the latest member of the celebrated V-6 family to be named one of Wards 10 Best Engines. The remaining Pentastar family members are:

3.6-liter V-6 hybrid in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
3.6-liter V-6 (first- and second-generation)
3.2-liter V-6, which is exclusive to the Jeep Cherokee
3.0-liter V-6, which is exclusive to China


FUEL-ECONOMY ACHIEVEMENTS

Among model-year 2019 U.S.-market gasoline-powered vehicles with V-6 engines, the 3.6-liter Pentastar contributes to best-in-class, miles-per-gallon (mpg) ratings in these vehicle segments†:

Middle Specialty Car

Dodge Challenger – combined city/highway cycle (23 mpg)
Dodge Challenger – highway cycle (30 mpg)

Large Regular Car

Dodge Charger/Chrysler 300 – combined city/highway cyle (23 mpg)
Dodge Charger/Chrysler 300 – highway cycle (30 mpg)
Dodge Charger/Chrysler 300 – city cycle (19 mpg)

Small Sport Utility

Jeep Wrangler – combined city/highway cycle (20 mpg)
Jeep Wrangler – highway cycle (25 mpg)
Jeep Wrangler – city cycle (18 mpg)

Middle Sport Utility

Jeep Grand Cherokee/Dodge Durango – combined cycle (21 mpg)
Jeep Grand Cherokee/Dodge Durango – highway cycle (26 mpg)
Jeep Grand Cherokee/Dodge Durango – city cycle (19 mpg)

Among current U.S.-market gasoline-powered vehicles with V-6 engines, the 3.6-liter Pentastar contributes to unsurpassed fuel-economy ratings in these vehicle segments†:

Middle Specialty

Dodge Challenger – city cycle (19 mpg)

Small Van


Chrysler Pacifica – combined mpg (22)
Chrysler Pacifica – highway mpg (28)
Chrysler Pacifica – city mpg (19)

Large Pickup

Ram 1500 (with eTorque mild-hybrid technology) – combined city/highway cycle (22 mpg)
Ram 1500 (with eTorque mild-hybrid technology) –city cycle (20 mpg)

† 2019 WardsAuto Segmentation

Pentastar Engine Program with Bob Lee


 
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