Chrysler Group reported sales of 178,408 units in
July, an eight percent decline compared to July 2002, calculated on a
day-rate basis.
A number of Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles posted notable sales
results, including the all-new Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Town & Country
minivan, Dodge Ram pickup, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Wrangler.
The Chrysler Pacifica recorded sales of 6,857 units in July 2003, an
increase from June 2003, when 6,642 vehicles were sold. Chrysler Town &
Country minivan had the highest July sales volume in its history, with
12,148 units sold. The Chrysler Town & Country and the Dodge Caravan
recently reached a milestone of 10 million units sold worldwide since
Chrysler introduced the original minivan nearly 20 years ago in 1983.
Dodge Ram sales remain strong, according to the company. Ram volumes totaled 40,355 units last
month, a 15 percent gain over July 2002. Dodge Rams have been setting a
blistering pace not only in Dodge dealer showrooms, but also in the NASCAR
Craftsman Truck Series, where they've won eight of 13 events and lead the
series' manufacturers championship standings in 2003.
"We start the second half of the year with some encouraging results," said
Gary Dilts, senior vice president - sales, DaimlerChrysler Corp. "Despite
a less-than-robust economy, consumers remain resilient, our dealers are
working harder than ever, and the Summer Sales Drive is cutting through the
advertising clutter and getting shoppers into Chrysler Group showrooms."
"The market is definitely challenging," Dilts added. "There's no silver
bullet. Consumers are looking for value across all segments, and meeting
that requirement takes a combination of elements. We have that at the
Chrysler Group, including great product, our 7/70 fully transferable
powertrain warranty, competitive incentives and a bigger share of voice,
thanks to our national ad campaign."
Jeep Wrangler achieved a 14 percent sales gain over the same period a year
ago with 6,840 units sold. Jeep Liberty posted sales of 13,839 units, a
July volume record. Limited Edition Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Tomb Raider
models began arriving at dealerships in July, coinciding with the
theatrical release of "Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life." The movie
features a customized Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and stars Angelina Jolie as
Lara Croft.
The marketing launch of the all-new Chrysler Crossfire began July 7, and
the low-volume sports coupe is already making a splash with 612 units sold
nationwide.
"With the all-new Chrysler Crossfire coupe joining the Pacifica in Chrysler
dealer showrooms, we are steadily moving the brand in a more premium
position among volume manufacturers over the longer term," added Dilts.
"It all starts with product, and with nine new models set to be introduced
next year, we feel we are well positioned across all of our brands."
Chrysler Group finished the month with 472,850 units of inventory, a 69-day
supply.
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