Homologation of Fiat products for U.S could take up to 18 months

There are reports saying that about 20 engineers from Fiat have visited Chrysler headquarters to commence merging procedures for the departments of product planning. Within 18 months we will be seeing the present Fiat cars going on sale as Chrysler models after it meets US federal regulations on homologation.

Changes include the re-engineering of the airbag with consideration of passengers without seat belts, a modification of the bumper to withstand a 2mph impact without sustaining damage, powertrain adjustments for lower emissions, and impact retesting of the sides. Granted that Chrysler can come out of Chapter 11 there are currently six Fiat models set to be available in 2011, with 2012 as the year set for the arrival of volume products.
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NItePhire - 5/13/2009 4:07:07 PM

+3 Boost

Personally I don't think its up to 18mths its at least 18 months. There is no way they can do the safety and emissions regulations changes faster than that. Realistically there isn't much separating US from Europe regulations and I feel that the fastest best way to deal with this is for the US just to relax its regs for five years down to the Euro regs. This would for Ford and anyone else to be able to just bring their stuff over right now, within months.

NItePhire - 5/13/2009 4:09:41 PM

+3 Boost

Also one very important thing they are leaving out. In 18months the so called present cars of Fiat will be OLD.

Anthony - 5/13/2009 4:35:54 PM

+2 Boost

I really do feel for Chrysler. They went from products based on old Mercedes platforms to now products based on old Fiat platforms. Chrysler needs all the help it can get. First, I would recommend revamping the PT Cruiser and Dodge Caliber into something smaller and sportier with better quality. Let it be based on the Fiat in the picture if it must. Small cars are going to be key.

0to60 - 5/13/2009 10:17:42 PM

+1 Boost

I dont think the olf MB platforms were a bad idea. I think it works well for the 300, charger and magnum. They just dont need to let those models sit around forever without a revamp or redesign. Some of these car companies dont understand (Chrysler and Lexus and Scion to name a few) that sales will decrease over time if you dont offer a revamped product. Some people look to trade every 3 or 4 years, especially lease turn in's. Who wants to buy the same product again after turning in the exact same car. Sales will diminish that way. Look at the SC's sales. And the BMW 6. These brands should be able to estimate and realize when its time for a change.

andraz - 5/14/2009 4:16:40 AM

+1 Boost

not anymore... Fiat has come way up actually. Not my fav brand, but still.

And chinese cars? I believe you should come to europe and check them out if you can. Europe = paris for americans, right? Perhaps Venice and rome :)