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.
0 Comments