FCA Canada News :

Fiat Chrysler, Union Avert Canada Strike With Tentative Deal
Work stoppage threatened to ripple across the auto maker’s North American operations

Oct. 15, 2020

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV and the union representing about 9,000 workers at its three Canadian factories reached a tentative agreement late Wednesday night, averting a strike that threatened to ripple across the auto maker’s North American operations.


Unifor, the Canadian union, said it would share details about the deal at a media briefing Thursday morning in Toronto. Representatives for Fiat Chrysler didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.


Before the Wednesday night deadline, Unifor had warned members to prepare for a strike, saying talks had bogged down on issues related to wages, health-care benefits and investment commitments at the Canadian factories.

A work stoppage would halt assembly of the company’s Pacifica and Voyager minivans, Dodge Charger and Challenger muscle cars, and a Chrysler sedan. It would also stop production of aluminum die castings for several Fiat Chrysler models, including highly profitable Jeep SUVs and Ram pickup trucks built outside of Canada.

The auto maker is pushing to improve its financial performance ahead of a planned merger with France’s PSA Group. The Italian-American auto maker needs to preserve cash to pay a dividend of $3.44 billion (reported as €2.9 billion) to its shareholders ahead of the closing of the deal early next year. That dividend was reduced last month in a cost-cutting move.


Fiat Chrysler’s cash reserves have already been dented by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic; the company stopped production at its factories in Europe and North America in the spring to curb the spread of the virus. The North American business has long contributed most of the auto maker’s earnings, and another work stoppage in the region would add to pressures on Fiat Chrysler’s bottom line.


Unifor reached a new labor deal with Ford Motor Co. last month, securing a nearly $1.5 billion investment in two plants and a commitment to build electric cars at a plant near Toronto. As is typical in pattern bargaining, Unifor used that agreement as a template for its talks with Fiat Chrysler.


Last year, Fiat Chrysler negotiated a new contract in the U.S. with the United Auto Workers that included wage increases and improved health-care benefits.

FCA to Invest up to $1.5 Billion to Build EVs in Windsor

2020-10-16

The Canadian auto industry received some needed good news yesterday when it learned that the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Group will invest between $1.35 and $1.5 billion in its Windsor, Ontario assembly plant to build electric vehicles.

The news came as part of an interim agreement with Canadian auto workers (Unifor), announced by the union’s national president Jerry Dias on Thursday.

The auto union said FCA will invest in the development of an advanced vehicle platform that will allow for the assembly of plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles, and that at least one new model will be available by 2025.

The agreement comes less than a month after Unifor said Ford committed to investing $1.46 billion in its Oakville and Windsor plants.

Said Jerry Dias, “Not only is Fiat-Chrysler maintaining the current portfolio but they will be investing three derivatives to enhance the current portfolio.”

The Unifor boss added that the union expects FCA to extend the life of the Chrysler 300, as well as introduce a number of Dodge Charger and Challenger variants.

The union says up to 2,000 jobs will be added to the Windsor plant by 2024.

On Thursday, Market forecasting firm LMC Automotive predicted that, in the wake of the ongoing pandemic, U.S. vehicle sales won’t recover to the levels of 2019 (when they amounted to 17 million units sold) until 2024.

Meetings to ratify the agreement between the union and the FCA group will be held over the weekend and members will vote on accepting or rejecting it on Sunday.

Unifor is then expected to begin negotiations with General Motors' Canadian division next week.

Unifor workers overwhelmingly ratify new FCA contract

Oct 19, 2020

Unifor workers at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CA Canada voted 78 per cent in favour of ratifying a new contract paving the way for what union and automotive officials predict will be a bold step into the industry’s electrification generation.

The 8,400 workers voted online beginning Sunday morning with the results being released Monday.

“It’s been a roller-coaster ride of emotions these past few months, losing the third shift,” said Unifor Local 444 president Dave Cassidy.

“We won’t flip a switch and everyone comes back to work. But there’s a future for them and the Windsor Assembly Plant.”

This is great news for Windsor Essex and our entire region

Click to expand...

Production workers at the Windsor Assembly plant, which will receive $1.3-$1.5-billion in new investment, voted 86 per cent in favour of the deal while 89 per cent of the skilled trades voted in favour.

Pending an agreement for government funding for Windsor Assembly, FCA Canada will make the plant the first known facility capable of producing internal combustion, hybrid and battery electric vehicles under the same roof in North America.

The flexible assembly lines will allow for products ranging from small cars to SUVs to medium-sized pickup trucks.

FCA’s Brampton plant will also get a $50-million investment to produce three new versions of the Challenger and Charger and continue to produce the Chrysler 300.

The Etobicoke Casting plant will also get $14 million to produce two new products.

“FCA has maintained a strong footprint in Canada for nearly a century,” Mark Stewart, chief operating officer for FCA North America, said in a statement.

“Over the last decade, we have invested over $4 billion in our Canadian manufacturing facilities, more than any other OEM in the country and it is our intention to maintain this leadership.

“This agreement bolsters our global competitiveness and positions us for future growth with new product investment and new jobs, while also demonstrating our commitment to our employees, their families and the communities we represent.”

The company also confirmed its intention to add 2,000 new jobs in the next three years with the return of a third shift at Windsor Assembly.

“This puts Windsor at the centre of the next generation of Canadian mobility,” Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association president Flavio Volpe said.

“It’s been a helluva of a month to be in the automotive business in Ontario and there is no place where that’s more prevalent than Windsor Essex.”

Cassidy said retooling of the Windsor plant would begin during the lifetime of the new three-year deal. A battery electric vehicle will be produced for the 2025 model year.

Cassidy dismissed concerns that the provincial and federal governments might not find the money to close the deal with FCA Canada or that the company might have a change of heart prior to the next round of negotiations.

“We have a binding agreement and I know what the position of the governments are,” Cassidy said.

“I talked with Premier Ford last week and he told me he has our back on this. Minister (Navdeep) Bains (Ministry of Innovation, Science and Industry) also has said he has our back.

“I know the government funding will be there.”

Cassidy said no figures have been bandied about publically, but he expects it to be similar to the $590 million the province and feds will be giving to the Ford Motor Company for the electrification of its Oakville Assembly complex.

Volpe also dismissed concerns about the solidity of FCA’s commitments to the investments.

“You don’t put your tires out there in public to be punctured,” Volpe said. “We are way past that point of concern.”

New Unifor-FCA Collective Bargaining Agreement Strengthens Commitment to Canadian Operations With Investment and Jobs

• New agreement includes up to CAD $1.58 billion in total investments and creates 2,000 new jobs
• Windsor to be retooled to produce electrified vehicles
• Brampton and Etobicoke to receive investment for new products
• Agreement firmly establishes FCA as the leading automobile employer in Canada

October 19, 2020 , Windsor, Ontario - FCA Canada confirmed today that its Unifor-represented workforce has ratified a new three-year agreement that builds on the Company’s commitment to grow its Canadian manufacturing operations by providing total investments of up to $1.58 billion and creating 2,000 new jobs.

“FCA has maintained a strong footprint in Canada for nearly a century. Over the last decade, we have invested over $4 billion in our Canadian manufacturing facilities, more than any other OEM in the country and it is our intention to maintain this leadership,” said Mark Stewart, Chief Operating Officer, FCA North America. “This agreement bolsters our global competitiveness and positions us for future growth with new product investment and new jobs, while also demonstrating our commitment to our employees, their families and the communities we represent.”

Working in collaboration with Unifor, as well as both the Federal and Provincial governments, the Company has committed to install a new multi-energy vehicle architecture, including Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) and Battery Electric (BEV) vehicle capability, and at least one new model on that architecture at its Windsor Assembly Plant. The value of this investment ranges from $1.35 billion to $1.50 billion.

Additional investments include $50 million for Brampton Assembly, which will introduce three new variants of the popular Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger muscle cars, in addition to continuing production of the Chrysler 300. The Etobicoke Casting Plant will receive two new products with an investment of $14.4 million, which includes a workforce increase of 22 percent. FCA’s transport operation (FCAT) also will receive $14.3 million in equipment upgrades.

The new agreement follows the previously established pattern on economics and benefits.

FCA Canada continues to employ more people and build more vehicles than any of the domestic three automakers. The new agreement covers more than 8,400 Unifor-represented manufacturing employees across the country.

FCA Canada
Founded as the Chrysler Corporation in 1925, FCA Canada Inc. is based in Windsor, Ontario, and celebrates its 95th anniversary in 2020. FCA Canada is a wholly owned subsidiary of FCA, a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan and member of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) family of companies. FCA Canada has approximately 440 dealers that sell Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo products, as well as SRT performance products. The company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. In addition to its assembly facilities, which produce the Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Chrysler Voyager and Chrysler Grand Caravan (Windsor) and Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger (Brampton), FCA Canada operates an aluminum casting plant in Etobicoke, a research and development centre in Windsor, and has sales offices and parts distribution centers throughout the country.

Canada: Fiat Chrysler Expanding Online Shopping Options To Include Used Cars

10/22/2020




Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is expanding its online shopping system in the coming months to allow dealers to list their used cars and "certified pre-owned" vehicles on FCA's E-Shop.


That expansion, which by December will also include test drive scheduling, online chats and refundable vehicle reservations in connection with a PayPal account, is part of the company's push to improve its online vehicle retailing, an area that has been growing in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Early next year, Mopar accessory shopping will also be added.


FCA, in a news release, said online shopping traffic across its dealer network is up more than 65% since the launch of its online service now known as E-Shop earlier this year.


"Six months ago, we pulled ahead of the launch of E-Shop to help our dealers who were attempting to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic," FCA U.S. Head of Sales Jeff Kommor said in the release. "Little did we know what a powerful tool E-Shop would become. About 45% of FCA's monthly sales originated from an Internet lead. Last year it was about 25%. Consumers say E-Shop gives them more transparency while dealers say the entire process—including home delivery—allows them to create a strong bond with the shopper."


Customers can complete an entire vehicle purchase through E-Shop, including e-signing paperwork and scheduling home delivery. It's available through FCA brand websites—Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat and Alfa Romeo—as well as participating dealer sites and social media applications, FCA said in the release.


"We had always envisioned E-Shop as a digital backbone onto which we could bolt new and cutting-edge elements that put the customer first. Ecommerce continues to be an integral tool in our marketing suite, providing audiences the ability to experience and shop our brands from the comfort of their homes. We're only getting started," Marissa Hunter, head of marketing for FCA North America, said in the release.

Another Shutdown Coming for Windsor Assembly Plant

Windsor Assembly Plant will have an additional shut down next month.
According to a tweet from Unifor Local 444 announced production has been cancelled from Nov. 2 to Nov. 9. — workers are already coming off a shut down from Sept. 28 to Oct. 16
There are roughly 4,500 workers at the Windsor Assembly Plant since the facility moved to a two-shift operation in July.
The layoff comes just weeks after the ratification of a new three-year deal with Fiat Chrysler Canada that promised a new product line in the plant by 2024.

Another Shutdown Coming for Windsor Assembly Plant

The shutdown runs from Nov.2 to Nov.9, according to Unifor Local 444

www.iheartradio.ca

Jeep Could Lose $100 Million Because Of Canadian Supplier

FCA sues over breach of contract.

12/24/2020


Automakers rely on a vast chain of supplier networks in order to keep production running on schedule. Any sort of disruption may not only stem the flow of new vehicles but also cause millions of dollars of lost revenue. The pandemic's effect on suppliers is just one example, though there was no one to blame. That's not always the case. The Detroit News reports Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has sued Canadian engine block supplier Martinrea International Inc. in US federal court because it allegedly "improperly and unilaterally" reallocated one of its engine-block manufacturing machines in Mexico to another customer.

That machine is needed to build the engine blocks for the hot-selling Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and Chrysler Pacifica, among others. The supplier signed a contract with FCA to build 13,021 engine blocks for the Pentastar V6 weekly at its facility in Queretaro, Mexico.



Now that's been allocated for use elsewhere, Martinrea can only promise FCA 6,247 blocks every week. "The insufficient supply will inevitably require FCA US to shut down production of six top-selling vehicle platforms in at least six of its plants," the lawsuit states. "Each hour Martinrea fails to meet fully FCA US's releases is already resulting in monetary damages to FCA US of thousands of dollars, plus other incidental and consequential damages. And this amount could continue to climb to hundreds of thousands of dollars per hour."
All told, FCA says it can potentially lose over $100 million because of the shortage.

Martinrea, however, blames the automaker for its own problems, claiming FCA began insourcing around a third of casting production from a plant in Indiana. In addition, it says the automaker didn't provide sufficient tooling.

"Martinrea was disappointed that FCA chose to in-source a significant portion of the casting production but, Martinrea relied on, and reallocated, the open casting production capacity created by FCA's decision," the supplier said. "FCA is now suddenly demanding that Martinrea produce 13,000 parts per week - for a period of time - a weekly volume that FCA has never come close to demanding for many years."

Fortunately, FCA dealerships are not lacking inventory and, so far, there are no known production issues. Fingers crossed it stays that way.

Chip shortage hits Windsor Assembly; Chrysler Pacifica minivan plant to be down for month

03/26/2021

The global chip shortage slamming the auto industry will shutter the Windsor Assembly Plant, which has more than 4,500 workers, for a month, according to the union representing employees there.

Unifor Local 444, in a Facebook post Thursday evening, said the plant, which produces the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, would shut down beginning Monday and urged workers to take direction from their supervisor. The plant is part of Stellantis, the company formed earlier this year from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot-maker PSA Group.

"(The) union has received word that the shortage of microchips crippling almost every auto company is now impacting us here at the Windsor Assembly Plant. Because of the shortage, our plant will be down for the next four weeks starting on Monday, March 29," according to the union's post.

Messages seeking comment were sent to spokespeople for Stellantis.

The news prompted an outpouring of comments on the post, most asking how the shutdown would affect employee time off but also some showing excitement about the prospect of an unexpected break. The situation, of course, won't just affect the workers at Windsor.

An unexpected month-long shutdown will also be felt by the plant's suppliers and their employees.

The announcement from Windsor follows news earlier in the week that a different Stellantis plant near Detroit, Warren Truck Assembly, is also being affected by the chip shortage. Ram 1500 Classics, the older version of the popular pickup, are being held at Warren and at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico unfinished until parts become available.

FCA Canada Reports First-quarter 2021 Sales Results

• Retail sales up 28%
• Total sales up 4%
• Strong sales results for Jeep®, Ram, Chrysler and Alfa Romeo brands

April 1, 2021 , Windsor, Ontario - FCA Canada today reported first-quarter 2021 total sales of 46,077 vehicles, an increase of 4% from 44,140 sold in Q1 2020. For the calendar year, retail sales are up 28% versus this time last year.

“As the new sales year opened, our dealerships nationwide remained focused on customer care, safety and enhanced sales and service convenience, as evidenced by a double-digit boost in retail sales,” said David Buckingham, President and CEO, FCA Canada. “Jeep® and Ram brand vehicles led the way for Canadian consumer interest. Jeep will continue to be a driving force throughout the year, with the arrival of several new models, including the brand’s first plug-in hybrid, Wrangler 4xe.”

For Q1 2021, Jeep brand total sales of 14,955 represent a 33% increase compared with the prior year. Jeep Cherokee, Gladiator and Wrangler saw sales increases of 80%, 64% and 23%, respectively. Looking specifically at Jeep brand retail sales, there was an increase of 49% for the quarter.

The all-new Jeep Wrangler 4xe, the brand’s first plug-in hybrid, as well as Jeep Grand Cherokee L, will arrive in dealerships in the second quarter. In the second half of 2021, the all-new 2022 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will arrive in the large SUV segment as a premium extension of the Jeep brand.

Ram brand started 2021 strong with total sales up 8% for the quarter with 22,110 trucks sold, compared with 20,530 sold in the same timeframe of 2020. Looking specifically at Ram pickup trucks, there was an 11% increase in sales with 21,367 trucks sold, compared with 19,179 sold in Q1 of the prior year. In terms of retail sales, Ram brand sales were up 13% from the same time in 2020.

Ram 1500 was awarded Best Full-size Pickup Truck in Canada for 2021 by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) and Ram 1500 was the only pickup to earn a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick rating.

Chrysler brand sales were up 170% in Q1 with 2,360 vehicles sold compared with the prior year.

Alfa Romeo brand sales of 173 vehicles, represent a 50% increase compared with Q1 results from the prior year.


FCA Canada
Founded as the Chrysler Corporation in 1925, FCA Canada Inc. is based in Windsor, Ontario, and celebrates its 96th anniversary in 2021. FCA Canada is a wholly owned subsidiary of FCA, a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan and member of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) family of companies. FCA Canada has approximately 440 dealers that sell Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo products, as well as SRT performance products. The company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. In addition to its assembly facilities, which produce the Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Chrysler Voyager and Chrysler Grand Caravan (Windsor) and Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger (Brampton), FCA Canada operates an aluminum casting plant in Etobicoke, a research and development centre in Windsor, and has sales offices and parts distribution centers throughout the country.

Canada: Chrysler Pacifica Named AutoGuide Family Vehicle of the Year for 2021

• 2021 Chrysler Pacifica, which reinvents the minivan segment with an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology, new available AWD and bold styling, awarded Family Vehicle of the Year in 2021 AutoGuide Awards
• 2021 Chrysler Pacifica family-friendly features include new FamCAM interior camera, which allows parents to view child seat occupants in the rear, Uconnect Theatre with built-in games and available Wi-Fi to keep children occupied, new Uconnect 5 system and much more
• 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offers 116 standard and available safety and security features, the most in the industry, and available AWD paired with Pacifica’s class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go seating
• Chrysler Pacifica, the most awarded minivan over the last five years, has now earned more than 145 honours and industry accolades
• Chrysler Pacifica and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid are made in Canada at the Windsor Assembly Plant

April 28, 2021 , Windsor, Ontario - The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica has been named the 2021 Family Vehicle of the Year by AutoGuide in the automotive website’s annual awards and further adds to its accolades as the most awarded minivan over the last five years.

The AutoGuide team drove well over 100 new models this year and judged 34 finalists in six overall categories on many attributes, including value, innovation, user-friendliness, technology, safety and more. The overarching theme in their judging criteria was “fitness for purpose.” The best vehicles didn't just excel in their particular category, they set new standards, even beyond their own class.

AutoGuide’s judges noted Chrysler Pacifica's unmatched blend of practicality, safety, space and style that edged it ahead of the other competitors.

“The Pacifica is the latest evolution of the origins of the species. This made-in-Canada people-mover carries the spirit of the original Caravan, loaded with practical, family-friendly features,” said AutoGuide Editor Kyle Patrick.

Contributing writer Matthew Guy, added: "It invented the segment and continues to do so by offering (features) like Stow 'N Go seating even on the all-wheel-drive model when its competitors can't even figure out how to make their middle row of seats disappear."

“All-wheel drive returned to the Pacifica menu this year, giving the Pacifica added foul-weather capability," said Patrick. "Chrysler also added a lux Pinnacle model this year, which dials up the interior ambiance with creamy caramel leather. This year's update also introduced a revised Uconnect 5 system. This 10.1-inch infotainment system builds on one of our favourite examples in the market, with crisper graphics, quicker responses, and the ability to create multiple user profiles.”

2021 Chrysler Pacifica offers an unmatched amount of family-friendly features that include:

• New FamCAM interior camera that allows parents to view child seat occupants in the rear and even zoom in on passengers
• Uconnect Theatre with built-in games and available Wi-Fi to keep children occupied, with four new games for 2021: Concentration, chess, Chrysler Says and backgammon
• New Uconnect 5 system offers a 10.1-inch touchscreen, the largest standard touchscreen in its class, and many more connected services and features
• New segment-first USB Type C ports charge devices up to four times faster than standard USB outlets, keeping all family members connected while on the go
• More standard and available safety features than any vehicle in the industry
• Available new all-wheel drive (AWD) to assist in transporting children in any kind of weather, paired with Pacifica’s class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go seating
• Stow ‘n Go second-row in-floor storage bins also allow additional space for storing toys, schoolbooks, groceries and more
• Stow ‘n Vac helps clean up any kid-generated messes

Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler brand continues to set the pace for the minivan segment with the new 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The first-ever minivan to offer both gas and hybrid powertrains, Chrysler is elevating its minivan game to new levels, creating a new top-of-the-line Pinnacle model in the segment, offering AWD capability paired with Pacifica’s class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go seating, more standard and available safety features than any vehicle in the industry, new FamCAM interior camera, wireless charging, next-generation Uconnect 5 connectivity, an athletic new look and loads more creature comforts and interior storage for the 2021 model year. The Pacifica Hybrid delivers more than 2.9 Le/100 km [80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe)] in electric-only mode, an all-electric range of more than 50 kilometres (30 miles) and a total range of more than 800 kilometres (500 miles).

The Chrysler Pacifica continues to hold its status as the most awarded minivan five years in a row with more than 145 honours and industry accolades. As the first company to introduce the minivan and through six generations of the vehicle, 116 minivan firsts have been produced, including nearly 40 minivan-first features on the Pacifica. The company has sold more than 15 million minivans globally since 1983, twice as many as any other manufacturer over 37 years.

Chrysler Brand
The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, intuitive innovation and technology since the company was founded in 1925. The Chrysler Pacifica continues to reinvent the minivan, a segment Chrysler invented, with an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology and bold styling. The Pacifica Hybrid takes this revolutionary vehicle a step further with its innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain. It’s the first electrified vehicle in the minivan segment and achieves 2.9 Le/100 km [more than 80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe)] in electric-only mode, an all-electric range of more than 50 kilometres (30 miles) and a total range of more than 800 kilometres (500 miles). Chrysler Grand Caravan offers families a budget-friendly option while delivering an exceptional driving experience. The Chrysler 300 lineup delivers on the brand’s promise of iconic and elegant design executed with world-class performance, efficiency and quality – all at an attainable value. Chrysler is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Stellantis
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) is one of the world’s leading automakers and a mobility provider, guided by a clear vision to offer freedom of movement with distinctive, affordable and reliable mobility solutions. In addition to the Group’s rich heritage and broad geographic presence, its greatest strengths lie in its sustainable performance, depth of experience and the wide-ranging talents of employees working around the globe. Stellantis will leverage its broad and iconic brand portfolio, which was founded by visionaries who infused the brands with passion and a competitive spirit that speaks to employees and customers alike. Stellantis aspires to become the greatest, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders, as well as the communities in which it operates.

FCA Canada Reports Second Quarter 2021 Sales Results

• Total sales up 20%
• Strong sales results for Jeep® brand; up 37%
• Ram brand posted 8% year-over-year sales gains

July 2, 2021 , Windsor, Ontario - FCA Canada today reported second quarter 2021 total sales of 40,490 vehicles, an increase of 20% from 33,718 sold in Q2 2020. For the calendar year, sales of 86,567 represent an increase of 11% versus this time last year.

“Despite all of the challenges facing our industry, Jeep recorded double-digit sales increases for nearly all of its nameplates,” said David Buckingham, President and CEO, FCA Canada. “2021 is a big year for Jeep as we add new models like the all-new Grand Cherokee. It is a transformational year as well, as the brand enters a new premium space with the extension of the Wagoneer brand and lays the groundwork for more electrification following the successful implementation of Jeep Wrangler 4xe.”

Jeep brand total sales of 14,297 in Q2 represent a 37% increase compared with the prior year. At retail, the increase is 43% when measured against Q2 of 2020. Within the brand, Cherokee sales of 2,955 are up 111%, Compass sales of 1,114 are up 47%, Grand Cherokee sales of 4,162 are up 51% and Wrangler sales of 5,084 represent an increase of 19%.

As the brand continues its 80th Anniversary this year, it is elevating its capability game yet again with the introduction of the new Jeep Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package. With 35-inch tires straight from the factory, this latest Wrangler brings improved approach angle, departure angle, ground clearance and water fording capability. It debuts July 14 at the 2021 Chicago Auto Show, alongside the new 2022 Jeep Compass.

Wagoneer will follow in the second half of 2021. A premium extension of the Jeep brand, it is designed and engineered to compete in the heart of the large SUV segment, appealing to the classic, ever-growing North American family and the couple that has it all. The ability to seat up to eight passengers and carry everything that comes with them is what the Wagoneer experience is all about.

Ram brand sales are up 8% for the quarter with 19,238 trucks sold, compared with 17,731 sold in the same timeframe of 2020. Looking specifically at Ram pickup trucks, there was an 8% increase in sales with 18,417 trucks sold, compared with 16,993 sold in Q2 of the prior year. In terms of retail sales, Ram brand sales were up 2% from the same time in 2020.

Just this week, Ram brand commemorated a decade of luxury pickup truck leadership by introducing the new 2022 Ram 1500 Limited 10th Anniversary Edition. The ultimate combination of capability, luxury and refinement, the Crew Cab 4x4 features an available exclusive Blue Shade exterior colour and a new Indigo/Sea Salt Grey interior colour and much more. The Limited 10th Anniversary Edition features unique technology, materials and storage solutions, plus a well-crafted, high-quality feel and appearance.

Chrysler, Dodge and Alfa Romeo brands each recorded increases this quarter. Individual nameplate increases were reported for Chrysler 300, Pacifica, Dodge Charger, Challenger, Durango, Alfa Romeo Giulia, 4C and Stelvio when compared with results from Q2 of 2020.

Stellantis will provide a holistic view of its electrification strategy on Thursday, July 8 at 2:30 p.m. CEST / 8:30 a.m. EDT. during its EV Day hosted by Stellantis Chief Executive Officer Carlos Tavares along with other executive management team members. Details for accessing the event, along with the supporting materials for the event, will be available under the Investors section of the Stellantis corporate website at www.stellantis.com. A recorded replay will be accessible on the Group’s corporate website (www.stellantis.com).

Sales Chart - Q2 2021:

Stellantis
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) is one of the world’s leading automakers and a mobility provider, guided by a clear vision to offer freedom of movement with distinctive, affordable and reliable mobility solutions. In addition to the Group’s rich heritage and broad geographic presence, its greatest strengths lie in its sustainable performance, depth of experience and the wide-ranging talents of employees working around the globe. Stellantis will leverage its broad and iconic brand portfolio, which was founded by visionaries who infused the brands with passion and a competitive spirit that speaks to employees and customers alike. Stellantis aspires to become the greatest, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders, as well as the communities in which it operates.

Why the Stellantis plant in Brampton, Ont., might be without product in 2024

July 16, 2021


Stellantis’s assembly plant in Brampton, Ont., might not have anything to build beyond 2023 as the automaker plans to move production of the Dodge Charger and Challenger muscle cars to the U.S. the next year, according to AutoForecast Solutions, a leading forecasting and consulting firm.


“Analyzing the Stellantis portfolio… across North America, one of the things we see is the Charger and Challenger potentially going to the United States, leaving a void at Brampton starting in 2024,” AutoForecast Solutions CEO Joe McCabe told Automotive News Canada when asked about the automaker’s electrification plans.


McCabe’s comments came after Stellantis’ EV Day earlier this month, when the automaker said it would introduce a battery-electric muscle car to its lineup in 2024. Stellantis has not said where that car would be built.


Brampton Assembly currently builds the gas-powered Charger and Challenger cars, as well as the Chrysler 300 sedan, which is expected to be phased out by 2023. The Charger and Challenger are believed to be highly profitable vehicles for Stellantis, but it has remained unclear what the company’s long-term plans are for the Brampton factory especially as the automaker embraces electrification and software development to the tune of $35 billion through 2025.


A request for comment from a Stellantis Canada representative was not immediately returned.

Unifor Local 1285 President Danny Price said the union has received “no indication at all” that the automaker would stop building the Charger and Challenger at Brampton. Local 1285 represents about 3,000 hourly workers at the plant.


“Our products right now are paying the bills for Stellantis,” Price said. “Our days of order right now are higher than when we launched these vehicles years ago… You don’t close a plant that’s got product that’s paying the bills for the rest of the corporation.”


Price said Brampton will be in line for electric muscle-car production.


“As long as we’re selling those vehicles, we’re making them,” he said. “That’s been our agreement since we launched those vehicles. We’re the sole provider. If they want to start to electrify them, we will be building them.”

AFS’ forecast does not necessarily mean Brampton Assembly will close. The forecasting firm said in 2020 that Ford Motor Co.’s Oakville Assembly in Ontario would no longer build Ford Edge and Lincoln Nautilus crossovers beyond their current life cycles, leaving the plant with no product mandate in the long-term.


That AFS forecast, first reported by Automotive News Canada, brought new urgency to that year’s negotiations between Unifor and Ford. They later agreed to a C$1.8-billion investment ($1.4 billion U.S.) in the plant that will eventually bring EV production to Oakville, replacing the outgoing Edge and Nautilus.


Unifor and Stellantis are set to negotiate a new contract in 2023. A request for comment from Unifor President Jerry Dias was not immediately returned.


During the 2020 negotiations between Unifor and Fiat Chrysler, Stellantis’ predecessor, the automaker agreed to invest C$50 million ($40 million U.S.) in the Brampton factory to introduce new derivatives of the Charger and Challenger during the life of the agreement.


But long-term questions about what the plant would build beyond 2023 were left unanswered, standing in contrast to investment plans worth up to C$1.5 billion ($1.2 billion) that the two sides agreed to at Windsor Assembly, which builds minivans for Stellantis. The automaker plans to build at least one new electrified model there by 2025.


Stellantis plans to introduce four EV platforms in the coming years that will have ranges from 300-500 miles. The company said 98 percent of its models in Europe and North America will be electrified by 2025, and it set a goal of having more than 40 percent of its sales in the U.S. being EVs by 2030.


Dodge, long known for its high-powered internal combustion engines, is along for the electrified ride.


“If a charger can make a Charger quicker, we’re in,” Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis previously told Automotive News.

Dodge, Ram Vehicles Named Winners in 2021 Vincentric Best Fleet Value in Canada Awards

• 2021 Dodge Durango SXT AWD, 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn Crew Cab, 2021 Ram ProMaster 1500 and 2021 Ram ProMaster 2500 awarded in 10th annual Vincentric Best Fleet Value in Canada Awards
• Awards recognize the specific vehicle and trim with the lowest total cost of ownership in the greatest number of 24 different lifecycle cost scenarios

July 15, 2021 , Windsor, Ontario - Four vehicles from the Dodge and Ram brands are being recognized with 2021 Vincentric Best Fleet Value in Canada awards, announced today. 2021 Dodge Durango SXT AWD, Ram 2500 Big Horn Crew Cab, Ram ProMaster 1500 and Ram ProMaster 2500 are all taking home top honours in their respective segments.

• 2021 Dodge Durango SXT AWD: Large SUV/Crossover segment (fourth time win for Durango SXT)
• 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn Crew Cab SWB 2WD: Full-size 3/4-Ton Pickup segment (third time win for Ram 2500)
• 2021 Ram ProMaster 1500 Std Roof 118 WB: Full-size 1/2-Ton Cargo Van segment (fourth time, third consecutive win for ProMaster 1500)
• 2021 Ram ProMaster 2500 Std Roof 136 WB: Full-size 3/4-Ton Cargo Van segment (second consecutive year win)

"All of Stellantis’ award winners were repeat winners in their segments for this year,” said David Wurster, President, Vincentric . “The Dodge and Ram brands demonstrated the value they bring to the Canadian fleet market by winning multiple segments, and also by earning best-in-class claims like the Lowest Depreciation Costs in its Class for the ProMaster 1500 and 2500, and the Best Fuel Economy in its Class for the ProMaster 1500 and Durango."

Now in its 10th year, the annual Vincentric Best Fleet Value in Canada Awards recognize the specific vehicle and trim with the lowest total cost of ownership in the greatest number of 24 different lifecycle cost scenarios.

Dodge Durango
Dodge Durango, the ultimate no-compromise SUV and the Charger of the three-row SUV segment, raises the bar for 2021 with new aggressive exterior styling, a new interior with a Challenger-inspired cockpit and more performance than ever with six distinct models – SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T, SRT 392 and the new 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat – the most powerful SUV ever.

Ram 2500 Heavy Duty
The Ram 2500 Heavy Duty blends extreme performance and towing capability with the segment’s most refinement and operator comfort features. The 2021 Ram Heavy Duty offers a towing capacity of 16,828 kilograms (37,100 pounds) and a payload capacity of 3,484 kilograms (7,680 pounds). Driving it all, the pickup segment’s first 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque engine – the available Cummins I-6 Turbo Diesel. The Ram Heavy Duty also sets benchmarks in comfort, luxury materials, innovation and technology extending well past any competitive offerings. Class-leading ride and handling are accomplished via a class-exclusive link-coil rear suspension system with optional rear air suspension. Giving maximum effort all day, every day with confidence, the Ram Heavy Duty line of pickup trucks steps forward with the full force of modern capability for businesses and individuals alike.

Ram ProMaster
The Ram ProMaster is Ram Commercial’s entry for the Class 2 full-size van segment. The Ram ProMaster full-size van benefits from an exclusive front-wheel-drive (FWD) system, reducing weight and complexity by locating all components beneath the cab. This keeps the cargo-load floor height and step-in height very low, which is a great ergonomic feature for the person getting in and out of the van all day. It also helps in low-traction surfaces, like snow, since there is always weight on the front wheels to provide traction. The result is a purpose-built, highly customizable van designed to exceed the demands of commercial customers and upfitters.

Vincentric
Vincentric provides data, knowledge, and insight to the automotive industry by identifying and applying the many aspects of automotive value. Vincentric data is used by organizations such as the Canadian Automobile Association, Automotive Fleet Magazine and many others as a means of providing automotive insight to their clientele. Vincentric, LLC is a privately held automotive data compilation and analysis firm headquartered in Bingham Farms, Michigan, USA.

Stellantis
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) is one of the world’s leading automakers and a mobility provider, guided by a clear vision to offer freedom of movement with distinctive, affordable and reliable mobility solutions. In addition to the Group’s rich heritage and broad geographic presence, its greatest strengths lie in its sustainable performance, depth of experience and the wide-ranging talents of employees working around the globe. Stellantis will leverage its broad and iconic brand portfolio, which was founded by visionaries who infused the brands with passion and a competitive spirit that speaks to employees and customers alike. Stellantis aspires to become the greatest, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders, as well as the communities in which it operates.

Chip crunch halts Chrysler minivan production another week in Windsor

01/20/2022

Production of the Chrysler minivans will be down an additional week next week in Windsor, Ontario, because of a shortage of microchips.

The plant that makes the Pacifica and the fleet-only Voyager hasn't run since the holiday break before the new year as a part of Stellantis NV's efforts to align production with sales. That's despite the plant being down for much of last year because of the chip shortage and a layoff expected in April of the roughly 1,800-person second shift in Windsor. Pacifica minivan sales, however, did increase 5% in 2021.



The chip shortage continues to cause halts to production throughout the industry, which has decreased dealership inventories and increased prices amid robust demand. President Joe Biden pleaded on Friday for Congress to pass $52 billion in funding for domestic semiconductor production.

Along with Windsor, Stellantis previously said Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario, home of the Dodge muscle cars and Chrysler 300 sedan, will idle through Jan. 26. The plant producing the Ram ProMaster vans in Saltillo, Mexico, is being retooled through Feb. 10.

Stellantis Announces $3.6 Billion CAD Investment for Its Canadian Operations to Accelerate Electrification Plans, Secures Future of Windsor and Brampton Plants

• • Announcement supports company’s long-term strategic plan Dare Forward 2030 and its $45 billion CAD investment in electrification and software globally
  • Represents transformation in Canadian operations to achieve electrified future
  • Brings company’s total investment in Canada to $8.6 billion CAD, including recently announced Stellantis-LG Energy Solutions EV battery plant
  • Windsor Assembly to add all-new, flexible multi-energy vehicle architecture in addition to current product portfolio
  • Brampton Assembly to introduce all-new, flexible architecture and build at least one all-new electric model
  • Assembly plants expected to return to three-shift operations
  • ARDC to house first Stellantis battery lab in North America, expand expertise in product development engineering to support growth in electrification
  • Announcement doubles Canadian investment outlined in 2020 Unifor Collective Bargaining Agreement

May 2, 2022 , Windsor, Ontario - Stellantis today announced plans to invest $3.6 billion CAD ($2.8 billion USD) to secure the future of its Windsor and Brampton (Ontario) Assembly Plants and to expand its Automotive Research and Development Centre (ARDC) to accelerate the company’s move to a sustainable future. This announcement also supports the company’s Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan and its long-term electrification strategy to invest $45 billion CAD ($35 billion USD) through 2025 in electrification and software globally.

Stellantis North America Chief Operating Officer Mark Stewart, alongside Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, made the announcement during an event at the ARDC, which was also attended by Ontario Premier Doug Ford; Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry François-Philippe Champagne; Ontario Minister of Economic Development Vic Fedeli; and Unifor Assistant to the National President Shane Wark, as well as other elected officials and community leaders.

“These investments reaffirm our long-term commitment to Canada and represent an important step as we move toward zero-emission vehicles that deliver on our customers’ desire for innovative, clean, safe and affordable mobility,” said Stewart. “We’re grateful to both the federal and provincial governments for their shared vision to create a sustainable future. And, to Unifor and our workforce for their support in helping ensure the viability of our Canadian operations for the long-term.”

Today’s announcement increases the company’s overall investment in Ontario to $8.6 billion CAD when combined with the Stellantis-LG Energy Solution joint venture battery plant, which will create 2,500 new jobs in the province. It also doubles the investment commitment of $1.5 billion CAD made during the 2020 contract talks.

“Today’s deal on made-in-Canada electric vehicles is yet another investment in our workers and in our future,” said Prime Minister Trudeau. “We’re building a world-class Canadian auto industry, an innovative economy and a clean, strong future for everyone. This is what a healthy environment and a healthy economy looks like.”

“Today is yet another example that our plan to build Ontario is delivering huge wins for workers and communities all over this province,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “Ontario has everything it needs to be North America’s auto manufacturing powerhouse once again. Where other governments stood by and watched jobs flee this province, we are getting it done and ensuring that cars of the future are made in Ontario by Ontario workers.”

Facility Investments
The Windsor Assembly Plant will be transformed to support production of a new multi-energy vehicle (MEV) architecture that will provide battery-electric (BEV) capability for multiple models. The plant will have maximum flexibility to adjust production volumes as needed to meet changing market demand over the next decade. Retooling is expected to begin in 2023.

The Brampton Assembly Plant will be retooled and fully modernized, beginning in 2024. When production resumes in 2025, the plant will introduce an all-new, flexible architecture to support the company’s electrification plans.

With this announcement, both Ontario assembly plants are expected to return to three shift operations in order to support the demand for these new products. The company will announce product allocation at a later date.

The Windsor-based ARDC will expand its talent pool by adding more than 650 highly skilled engineering jobs in various areas to support Stellantis’ growth in electrification. It will expand North American capability related to the transition to EV with a focus on core technology areas: electrified propulsion systems, including batteries, power electronics, electric machines, motor controls, energy management and embedded software.

The ARDC also will become the first battery lab in North America, following the company’s announcement to establish a similar centre in Turin, Italy. The Battery Lab will be a state-of-the-art technology centre for the development and validation of advanced BEV, PHEV and HEV cells, modules and battery packs. This in-house capability will rapidly accelerate Stellantis’ EV best-in-class performance. The new 100,000-square-foot facility will be added to the existing building with completion expected by the end of 2023.

In March, Stellantis and LG Energy Solution announced the formation of a joint venture company to establish the first large-scale, domestic, electric-vehicle battery manufacturing facility in Windsor to support the company’s electric battery development. With an investment of $5 billion CAD ($4.1 billion USD) and the creation of an estimated 2,500 new jobs, the joint venture company will produce leading edge lithium-ion battery cells and modules to meet a significant portion of Stellantis’ vehicle production requirements in North America.

Stellantis Pushes Electrification At Dodge Challenger And Charger Plant

Thu, May 5, 2022

Steven Symes
Thu, May 5, 2022, 3:00 PM


⚡ Read the full article on Motorious

This is the future of Mopar muscle or something…

I hate to say it, but the era of modern Mopar muscle looks to be atrophying, if not completely dead. A recent announcement from Stellantis details out an electrification plan for the Brampton Assembly Plant, currently the home of the Dodge Challenger and Charger, plus the Chrysler 300. The announcement was made by Mark Stewart, Stellantis North America Chief Operating Officer, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario Premier Doug Ford at his side.

Many statements were made at the media event which in summary go on about how the future is electrification and so Stellantis is investing in the future of Canadian manufacturing. We hear this stuff all the time with few questioning this myopic view of what’s coming in the next several years or so.

Under this plan, the Brampton Assembly Plant will be undergoing some big changes, including a full modernization and retooling by 2024. Considering the current cars being made there are going to either be eliminated or completely redesigned from the ground up, this really isn’t a shock in the least. Stellantis says production will resume in 2025.

Stellantis is anticipating big demand for whatever will be rolling off the line at Brampton. It expects three shifts will be working to crank out the new products. In other words, they’re super confident everyone will want what they’re offering.

The thing is the Dodge Challenger and Charger haven’t exactly been slow sellers. They’ve consistently clobbered the Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang in sales, like in 2021 when over 78,000 Chargers and over 54,000 Challengers were sold. But Stellantis believes whatever is coming down the pipe will be more popular.

Perhaps the plan is to make something that competes against the Toyota RAV4, which racked up over 407,000 sales last year? If that’s the move, why would people choose a Dodge crossover versus a model that’s more established? Sadly, the strategy will probably be to load up on “attitude” with aggressive styling and a marketing campaign that tries convincing people they’re getting a “muscle crossover” or some such nonsense.

Parts shortage halts production at Chrysler plant

05/13/2022

A shortage of a part from an external supplier halted production at the Chrysler minivan plant in Windsor, Ontario, this week, Stellantis NV confirmed on Thursday.

The shortage isn't related to a scarcity of microchips, which idled the Jeep Cherokee plant in Belvidere, Illinois, and two Ford Motor Co. plants this week. Stellantis didn't specify the part that was affected.

Production of the Chrysler Pacifica at Windsor Assembly Plant was down Wednesday and Thursday, the automaker confirmed. It had canceled the day shift at the two-shift plant on Friday, as well.

Both Windsor and Belvidere are scheduled to resume production next week. Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, which makes the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs, is down for retooling until late May.

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares earlier this week warned about the potential for future supply-chain disruptions if domestic production of electric-vehicle batteries and needed raw materials isn't encouraged.

Arbitrator orders Stellantis to end vaccine mandate in Canada


06/20/2022
Chrysler and Dodge maker Stellantis NV must end its COVID-19 vaccine mandate for Canadian employees after an arbitrator determined the policy is now unreasonable because of waning efficacy against the omicron variant.

The decision issued Saturday has the potential to affect more than 300 employees who have been placed on unpaid leave since January for being unvaccinated or declining to disclose their vaccination status, according to the arbitrator's decision.

After Stellantis announced the requirement for employees and visitors at its Canadian facilities in October alongside General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co., it implemented it starting Dec. 17 after discussions with the Canadian autoworkers union Unifor. Unifor Local 444 and Local 1285, which represent employees making the Chrysler Pacifica minivan at Windsor Assembly Plant and Dodge muscle cars and Chrysler 300 sedan at Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario, respectively, filed a grievance over the policy.

Arbitrator Marilyn Nairn determined the mandate was "reasonable" when the policy was put in place, but ordered Stellantis end it starting June 25.

"After careful review and not without considerable personal reservation," she wrote, "I hereby find that a COVID-19 vaccine mandate defined as requiring two doses (of a two-dose vaccine) is no longer reasonable based on the evidence supporting the waning efficacy of that vaccination status and the failure to establish that there is any notable difference in the degree of risk of transmission of the virus as between the vaccinated (as defined in the Policy) and the unvaccinated.

"Rather, the evidence supports a conclusion that there is negligible difference in the risk of transmission in respect of Omicron as between a two-dose vaccine regimen and remaining unvaccinated. There is, under the definition in the Policy, no longer a basis for removing unvaccinated employees from the workplace."

The arbitrator also noted the Canadian federal government was lifting its own mandate effective Monday.

Almost 95% of the workers at Windsor and Brampton assembly plants are vaccinated. There were 262 unvaccinated employees, including 123 who were seeking a medical or religious exemption. Three people had been granted a medical exemption. Another 71 workers declined to disclose their vaccination status.

Stellantis Canada spokeswoman LouAnn Gosselin said in a statement the automaker is reviewing the decision before determining its next steps.

"We are very pleased with the Arbitrator’s decision that the Stellantis vaccine policy is reasonable," she said. "Stellantis takes its obligation to provide a safe and healthy working environment for its 9,000+ employees throughout Canada seriously."

Local 444 President Dave Cassidy said the union would be in talks with the automaker this week ahead of the mandate's end.

"It's been very hard on a lot of people," Cassidy said in a video posted on the local's Facebook page on Saturday. "There are going to be those who say, 'I didn't want to take the shot, but I was forced to, the company forced me to do it.' Like I said many times, this is such a divisive issue that we've been dealing with. But I can tell you, your local, your leadership believed no one should lose their job because of a choice, and people should always have a choice."

Between the spring of 2020 and April 2022, there were at least 1,096 known positive cases of COVID-19 among employees at the two plants, 817 of which were reported after Jan. 1, according to the arbitration decision. Across Stellantis' Canada operations, there were 1,221 cases. There was one known workplace outbreak, though three notifications at Brampton and seven notifications at Windsor were sent to the Labour Ministry for workplace exposures since 2020.

Stellantis never instituted a vaccine mandate for bargaining-unit employees in the United States, as it was subject to the United Auto Workers, which held the decision should be a choice for workers.

It had announced in November a mandate for U.S. nonunionized salaried employees, but suspended that policy in January after the U.S. Supreme Court blocked a federal emergency temporary standard from the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration from taking effect. The standard would've required employers with 100 or more workers to ensure their employees are vaccinated or tested weekly. At the time, 97% of the affected 14,000 employees had gotten the vaccine or a medical or religious exemption.

Windsor-made Pacifica helps improve overall sales for FCA Canada





July 4, 2022

Record sales in the second quarter for Windsor-made mini-vans helped improve overall sales for FCA-Canada.
Grand Caravan, Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid experienced total sales of 3,227 units, more than doubling second-quarter results for Chrysler brand minivans from 2021.

David Buckingham, president and CEO of FCA Canada credited the determination of employees who dealt with supply chain and shipping challenges to deliver vehicles to customers.

"Demand continues to be very strong for our vehicles, as evidenced in the second quarter by sales increases for the Chrysler, Jeep, Ram and Alfa Romeo brands,” Buckingham said.

Jeep brand sales increased in Canada for the second quarter of 2022 with 18,374 vehicles sold, representing a 29 per cent increase over the second quarter of 2021. Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Wrangler saw record retail sales in Q2, alongside record Jeep Gladiator total sales of 1,708 units sold.

Windsor Assembly Plant workers step up amid set backs



Workers at Windsor Assembly plant filled six Chrysler Pacificas with toys to be donated to Sparky’s Toy Drive in Windsor, Ont. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022.

Dec. 14, 2022

Workers at Stellantis stepped up in a big way to help Sparky's Toy Drive despite continued setbacks at Windsor Assembly Plant due to parts shortages.

“They're extremely generous people that work at our plant and in our community,” said John Scott, people cevelopment coordinator for Unifor Local 444.

According to the union, Windsor Assembly Plant was closed for 17 weeks this year, but workers dug deep. Factor in retirees and layoffs and logic says much was not to be expected.

Last year workers filled two Pacificas. This year they filled six.

“They realize they need to give back. To whom much is given much is required. That's something we really believe in,” Scott said.
Sparky's Toy Drive isn't the only charity benefitting from Unifor Local 444 workers generosity. “We also support several other causes like the food bank. Coats for kids. The poppy drive."

Windsor Assembly Plant fill six Chrysler Pacificas with toys | CTV News