Chrysler LLC Update Regarding Current Condition of Chrysler LLC Dealer Network

/PRNewswire/ -- The following are details on the current condition of Chrysler LLC dealer network.

Comments can be attributed to Steven J. Landry, Executive Vice President, North American Sales and Marketing, Service and Parts -- Chrysler LLC:

"The automotive industry cannot support the number of dealers currently in the marketplace. From 1990 until 2007, the industry averaged roughly 16 million new vehicles sold each year. In 2009, new vehicles sold are expected to be 10.5 million units.

"In 2008 Chrysler dealerships did not make a profit. The average loss was $3,184 per dealer.

"Chrysler is treating the rejected dealers fairly by assisting in the redistribution of remaining vehicle and parts inventory, paying incentive and warranty payments due.

"It was not an easy decision to ask the court to reject a portion of our dealer contracts, but the reality is Chrysler's viability depends on a vibrant, profitable dealer network. As presently configured, Chrysler's dealer network does not meet that test. If the sale to Fiat is not approved by the Bankruptcy Court, the stark reality is all 3,181 dealers will face elimination.

"The process to evaluate dealers was a thorough, rigorous process that used a data-driven metric that included the following factors:

-- Minimum Sales Responsibility
-- A scorecard that measured sales, share, shipments, customer
satisfaction index, service satisfaction index and warranty repair
-- Facility (capacity, Millennium II standards)
-- Location (optimum retail area)
-- Dual (Dealer is dualed with a competing manufacturer)
-- The market's total sales potential

"Under this plan, 2,392 dealers across the United States move forward with the new company. It doesn't mean that the 789 rejected dealers will close if this motion is approved by the Court:

-- 44 percent of the 789 "rejected" dealers are dualed with another
(competing) new vehicle franchise and can continue to sell those makes
of vehicles
-- 83 percent of the 789 "rejected" dealers sell more used than new
vehicles, many of these dealers will continue selling and servicing
pre-owned vehicles

"Chrysler began the process to consolidate dealerships and locate all three brands under one roof more than 10 years ago. The Company made the decision it was cost prohibitive to continue to manufacture and market overlapping products. Going forward, we will not do that, so it is critical the majority of our dealers offer customers all three brands under one roof."

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Chrysler LLC Receives Court Approval of 'First Day Motions'

/PRNewswire/ -- Chrysler LLC announced Friday that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court has granted the relief the company requested in a series of court filings known as "First-day motions." The orders issued by the court will help the company continue to operate its business during the reorganization proceedings.

Yesterday, Chrysler announced that, as a result of the comprehensive restructuring plan agreed to by many of its stakeholders, it had reached an agreement in principle to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat SpA. Chrysler filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to facilitate the restructuring and alliance.

First-day motions were filed to support Chrysler's employees, dealers, vendors and suppliers, together with its customers and other stakeholders. The Court granted approval for the company's request to continue payment of wages and health and welfare benefits to employees and contractors, and continue its customer warranty programs.

Bob Nardelli, Chrysler Chairman and CEO, said, "We accomplished a great deal today, including approval of certain First-day motions, which will enable us to transition into Chapter 11 and maintain normal operations as we move forward. Our focus now is on the next steps of this process, which we will pursue as efficiently and deliberately as possible."

The Chrysler Chapter 11 case was filed on April 30 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York. The case number is 09-50002, with the Honorable Arthur J. Gonzalez presiding. More information about Chrysler's restructuring is available at www.ChryslerRestructuring.com.

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Chrysler LLC and Fiat Group Announce Global Strategic Alliance to Form a Vibrant New Company

/PRNewswire/ -- Chrysler LLC today announced that, as a result of the comprehensive restructuring plan agreed to by many of its stakeholders, it has reached an agreement in principle to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat SpA to form a vibrant new company. It will allow Chrysler and Fiat to fully optimize their respective manufacturing footprints and the global supplier base, while providing each with access to additional markets. Fiat powertrains and components will also be produced at Chrysler manufacturing sites.

"This partnership transforms Chrysler into a vibrant new company with a wealth of strategic advantages," said Bob Nardelli, Chairman and CEO of Chrysler. "It enables us to better serve our customers and dealers with a broader and more competitive line-up of environmentally friendly, fuel-efficient high-quality vehicles. Benefits to the new company include access to exciting products that complement our current portfolio, technology cooperation and stronger global distribution."

Chrysler initiated discussions with Fiat more than a year ago to develop plans for a global product alliance. Over the past several months, these discussions have evolved and expanded. Chrysler and many of its stakeholders worked tirelessly to agree upon concessions that will result in a significantly lower cost base and enable fulfillment of a broader strategic alliance.

"We want to personally assure everyone that the new company will produce and support quality vehicles under the Jeep(R), Dodge and Chrysler brands as well as parts under the Mopar(R) brand. Chrysler employees will become employees of the new company. Chrysler dealerships remain open for business serving our customers. All vehicle warranties will be honored without interruption and consumers can continue to purchase our vehicles with complete confidence," explained Nardelli.

Despite substantial progress on many fronts, Chrysler was not able to obtain the necessary concessions from all of its lenders, which would have avoided the need for a bankruptcy proceeding. As a result, under the direction of the U.S. Treasury, Chrysler LLC and 24 of its wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries today filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.

"Even though total agreement was not possible, I am truly grateful for all that has been sacrificed, on the part of many of Chrysler's stakeholders to reach an agreement in principle with Fiat," said Nardelli. "My number one priority has been to preserve Chrysler and the thousands of people who depend on its success. While I am excited about the creation of the global alliance, I am personally disappointed that today Chrysler has filed for Chapter 11. This was not my first choice. "

Chrysler also will file a motion under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code requesting the swift approval by the Court of the agreement with Fiat and the sale of Chrysler's principal assets to the new company. The benefit of this type of filing is speed. It should allow a leaner new company to emerge in a matter of 30 to 60 days, well positioned for long-term viability.

Nardelli, who has been leading Chrysler since August 2007, also announced to Chrysler LLC's Board of Management and the U.S. Treasury his plan to leave the company following the emergence of the new company from Chapter 11 and the completion of the alliance with Fiat. He will return to Cerberus Capital Management LP as an advisor. "Now is an appropriate time to let others take the lead in the transformation of Chrysler with Fiat," said Nardelli. "I will work closely with all of our stakeholders to see that this new company swiftly emerges with a successful closing of the alliance."

During the restructuring process, the government will provide sufficient debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing to allow continuation of "business as usual." The company will seamlessly honor warranty claims, pay suppliers and keep our dealer body operating to continue to serve our valued customers.

"To create this vibrant new company, we are using this structured bankruptcy to rapidly implement tough but necessary changes, including: the agreed upon wage and benefit structure for active and retired employees that is competitive with those of transplant manufacturers; a reduction of debt and interest expense; the disposition of idle assets; a rationalized and more efficient dealer network; and sound agreements with our suppliers," said Nardelli.

Chrysler's Mexican, Canadian and other international operations are not part of any bankruptcy filing.

As part of the restructuring and with the backing of the U.S. Treasury, we have reached an agreement in principle with GMAC to become the preferred lender for Chrysler dealer and consumer business. GMAC will be able to offer the best long-term finance options for Chrysler dealers and customers with standard rate installment products.

When the transaction is completed, the Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) will own 55 percent of the new company and the U.S. and Canadian governments will own proportionate shares of a 10 percent stake. Fiat will initially hold a 20 percent ownership stake in Chrysler. Fiat will have the right to increase its ownership stake an additional 15 percent in three increments as it meets the following criteria: 5 percent for bringing a 40 mpg vehicle platform to Chrysler to be produced in the U.S.; 5 percent for providing a fuel-efficient engine family to be produced in the U.S. for use in Chrysler vehicles; and 5 percent for providing Chrysler access to its vast global distribution network to facilitate the export of Chrysler vehicles. Fiat cannot become a majority owner until after all U.S. government loans have been completely repaid.

As a part of the restructuring, most manufacturing operations will be temporarily idled effective Monday, May 4, 2009. Normal production schedules will resume when the transaction is completed, which is anticipated within 30 to 60 days.

"We want to recognize the Administration, the U.S. Treasury, President's Auto Task Force, as well as Members of Congress and representatives at the state and community level and Canadian Federal and Ontario Provincial governments for their energy and efforts in helping to move this new company forward," Nardelli said. "It is also important to acknowledge Cerberus and Daimler, which provided the foundation for the alliance as well as Chrysler's many other stakeholders including the UAW and CAW leadership, employees, dealers and suppliers. Without their deep sacrifices, unstinting loyalty and enduring belief in Chrysler, the alliance would not have been possible. We look forward to our new partnership with Fiat. To be sure, there will be many changes as we move forward to implement our plans. But today, from many great parts, we begin to build a vibrant new company with less debt, a stronger balance sheet, richer product portfolio, supported by a well-positioned finance company."

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Invest in America Offers Incentive for Credit Union Members’ Car Purchase

(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Wednesday, January 7, representatives of General Motors and Chrysler Corporations announced the expansion of the “Invest in America” pilot discount purchase programs to credit union members. These programs are being made available to the members of the nation’s 7,900 credit unions. GM’s “Credit Union Member Discount Program” extends to March 31, 2009, and Chrysler’s “Credit Union Member Cash” rebate program extends through June 30, 2009.

With a certificate and proof of membership, a credit union member can receive a discount of 4.5% off the MSRP in addition to other available discounts on most General Motors products. With proof of credit union financing, a member can receive a rebate of $500 to $1,000 as specified for most vehicles from Chrysler (dealer participation is optional). The details of both these programs can be found at www.lovemycreditunion.org.

Although obviously impacted by levels of employment and general economic conditions, credit unions remain well capitalized and ready to lend to their members. Credit unions have continued to make automobile loans, mortgage loans, and loans for many other purposes to members throughout the recent economic struggles. Credit unions continue to be an available source of low-cost loans and capital, as well as providing the opportunity for members to participate in these discount auto purchase programs.

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Thanks to the Tennessee Credit Union League for the heads up on this great news.

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Chrysler LLC Statement Re Federal Assistance Received

Chrysler Chairman and CEO Bob Nardelli said on behalf of the leadership team, that he was pleased to report that the Company's discussions with the Treasury Department have been completed, and that today (January 2), Chrysler received an initial $4 billion loan to help bridge the current financial crisis.

"We recognize the magnitude of the effort by the Treasury Department to complete the multiple financial arrangements and appreciate their confidence in Chrysler. We would like to thank the many constituents who worked with us to meet the loan requirements. This initial loan will allow the Company to continue an orderly restructuring, while pursuing our vision to build the fuel-efficient, high-quality cars and trucks people want to buy, will enjoy driving and will want to buy again."

Cerberus Capital Management, LP, informed the Company that productive discussions continue between Chrysler Financial and the U.S. Treasury Department regarding Chrysler Financial's loan and a closing is expected in due course.

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Ford Motor Company Welcomes Action to Provide Emergency Funding to GM and Chrysler

/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) said today that it welcomes action by the Administration to provide emergency funding for General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC.

"As we told Congress, Ford is in a different position. We do not face a near-term liquidity issue, and we are not seeking short-term financial assistance from the government," Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally said. "But all of us at Ford appreciate the prudent step the Administration has taken to address the near-term liquidity issues of GM and Chrysler. The U.S. auto industry is highly interdependent, and a failure of one of our competitors would have a ripple effect that could jeopardize millions of jobs and further damage the already weakened U.S. economy."

Ford recently submitted to Congress its comprehensive business plan, which details the company's plan to return to pre-tax Automotive profitability by 2011. In the plan, Ford said the transformation of its North American automotive business will continue to accelerate through aggressive restructuring actions and the introduction of more high-quality, safe and fuel-efficient vehicles -- including a broader range of hybrid-electric vehicles and the introduction of advanced plug-in hybrids and full electric vehicles.

"Ford has a comprehensive transformation plan that will ensure our future viability -- as evidenced by our profitability in the first quarter of 2008," Mulally said. "While we clearly still have much more work to do, I am more convinced than ever that we have the right plan that will create a viable Ford going forward and position us for profitable growth."

Ford is asking for access to a line of credit of up to $9 billion in bridge financing, but reiterated that it hopes to complete its transformation without accessing a government loan.

"For Ford, a line of credit would serve only as a critical backstop or safeguard against worsening conditions, as we drive transformational change in our company," Mulally said.

Ford reiterated that it is continuing aggressive actions to reduce costs and improve Automotive gross cash to fund its product-led transformation plan, despite the continued weakness in the global automotive market and economic environment. Ford said it is more committed than ever to deliver more of the safe, affordable, high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles that consumers want and value. The company's plans include:

-- Delivering best-in-class or among the best fuel economy with every new vehicle introduced.

-- Investing approximately $14 billion in the U.S. on advanced technologies and products to improve fuel efficiency during the next seven years.

-- Introducing industry-leading, fuel-saving EcoBoost engines on today's vehicles for up to 20 percent better fuel economy and up to 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions versus larger-displacement engines.

-- Bringing to market by 2012 a family of hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles.

-- Upgrading the Ford, Lincoln, Mercury lineup in North America almost completely by the end of 2010.

-- Bringing six European small vehicles from global B-car and C-car platforms to be built in Ford's North America plants.

-- Retooling three North American truck plants to produce small, fuel efficient vehicles.

-- Building on vehicle quality that is now on par with Honda and Toyota - and that consistently is being recognized by important third-parties like J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality Study - driven by Ford's disciplined and standardized processes for every product.

-- Building on vehicle safety leadership - with the most U.S. government 5-star safety ratings of any auto company and recently moving past Honda for the industry's most IIHS "Top Safety Picks" - plus new smart safety features, such as the industry-first MyKey technology that limits top speed and audio volume for teens and the first forward crash-avoidance system for mainstream vehicles.

-- Supporting Ford's products with a lean, flexible global manufacturing system on par with leading Japanese and European facilities.

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Chrysler LLC Thanks the Administration and Treasury for Their Confidence

/PRNewswire/ -- Chrysler LLC Chairman and CEO Bob Nardelli said on behalf of the men and women of Chrysler and its extended enterprise, that he would like to thank the Administration and Treasury for their confidence in the Company.

"A letter of intent was signed which outlines the specific requirements that must be achieved," said Nardelli. "These requirements will require consideration from all constituents, requiring commitment first in principal, leading to implementation this coming year. Chrysler is committed to meeting these requirements."

Nardelli said the Company would remain focused on its challenge and this initial injection of working capital would help bridge the liquidity crisis the industry is facing and assist in helping return Chrysler to profitability.

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Highlights of Chrysler LLC Plan Submitted to the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs and the House Committee on Financial Services

PRNewswire/ -- -- Chairman and CEO Robert Nardelli looks forward to testifying before the
committees later this week.

-- Chrysler will urge the immediate adoption of legislation that will allow domestic automakers to weather the current national economic crisis and continue to invest in industry-leading products, technologies and vehicles of the future.

-- The first question is, what changes has Chrysler made to help itself?

Since Chrysler became an independent company in 2007:
-- We eliminated over 1.2 million units of capacity, or 30 percent;
-- We reduced fixed costs by $2.4 billion and, separated over 32,000
employees - including 5,000 on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
And at the same time ...
-- We invested in product improvements - over half a billion dollars
in our first 60 days;
-- We improved our latest JD Power quality scores, and reduced our
warranty claims by 29 percent;
Part of our business model transformation includes alliances and
partnerships - for example - the agreements to produce vehicles
for VW and for Nissan. As a result, through the first six months
of the year, Chrysler met or exceeded our operating plan, ending
the first half with $9.4 billion unrestricted cash.

-- Why does Chrysler need the funding?

We need to address the unprecedented drop in vehicle sales caused by the financial crisis.
U.S. sales are down from a 17 million unit selling rate in early 2007, to an estimated 11 million unit selling rate for the fourth quarter of 2008 - a 38 percent decline. We lost 20 percent of our sales virtually overnight when the financial market crisis forced us out of the consumer lease business. With customers not buying ... with dealers not ordering ... with our plants not producing ... Chrysler's cash inflow has suffered.

-- So how will the bridge loan be used?

Cash will support ongoing operations as we continue to restructure the business, including in the first quarter alone:
-- $8.0 billion in payments to parts suppliers
-- $1.2 billion for other vendors
-- $900 million in wages
-- $500 million in healthcare and legacy costs
-- $500 million in capital expenditures

Without an immediate working capital bridge, Chrysler's liquidity could
fall below the level appropriate to ensure operations in the ordinary
course by the first quarter of 2009.

-- So, who is contributing to saving Chrysler?

First and foremost, Chrysler and its extended enterprise will. That starts with me. I receive a salary of $1 a year. I have no employment contract, no change of control agreement, no "golden parachute," and receive no health care or life insurance benefits from the company. We are committed to negotiate concessions from all of our constituents.

-- The next question - Does Chrysler plan to build cars and trucks that
consumers want to buy, and that support the country's energy security
and environmental goals?

Our product plan features 24 major launches from 2009 through 2012. For the 2009 model year, 73 percent of our products will offer improved fuel economy compared to 2008 models. We plan on launching additional small, fuel-efficient vehicles. ENVI is our breakthrough family of all-electric ... and range - extended electric vehicles - similar to the one parked outside. Chrysler's product plan includes the introduction of the Ram Hybrid and our first electric-drive vehicle in 2010 with three additional models by 2013.

-- Does Chrysler have a viable plan?

With our requested bridge loan - absolutely! I also believe that further partnership, restructuring and consolidation would make the U.S. auto industry even more viable and competitive in the long run. Further opportunities for technology sharing would provide fuel-efficient cars and trucks more cost effectively and faster to market. The three-company alliance that developed the dual-mode hybrid is a good example. As a Country, we should not trade our current dependence on foreign oil for a future dependence on foreign technologies.

-- The final question is, when will Chrysler pay back this loan?

We believe we will be well positioned to begin repayment of the federal loans -- in 2012. I recognize that this is a significant amount of public money. However, we believe this is the least costly alternative considering the depth of the economic crisis and the options we face.

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