Nissan to supply Chrysler with small cars

Posted on Thursday 10 January 2008


Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn has made no secret of his desire to form an alliance with one of America’s major carmakers, and now we have reports claiming Nissan and Chrysler have formed such a pact. In a recent announcement in Japan it has come to light that Nissan will supply Chrysler with small, fuel-efficient models powered by engines displacing no more than 1.8L.

Nissan and Chrysler are also in talks to supply cars, trucks and powertrains to one another in order to minimize development costs and reach larger markets. Ultimately the product sharing will benefit both companies, especially Chrysler who has been largely ignoring the demand for smaller more fuel efficient cars.

There has been little speculation on whether the new small car will be branded as a Chrysler or fall into one of the other brands under Chrysler’s portfolio but at this point it seems likely that it will be developed into a Chrysler model.

January 13, 2008

Chrysler and Nissan confirm product agreement for new sedan


Auburn Hills, Michigan - Chrysler LLC and Nissan Motor Company Limited have announced an agreement, under which Nissan will supply Chrysler with a new car for limited distribution in South America. Based on the Nissan Versa sedan, the new car will be supplied to Chrysler on an Original Equipment Manufacture (OEM) basis in 2009.

The OEM supply agreement is the second product exchange between the two corporations; Nissan affiliate JATCO has supplied Chrysler with transmissions since 2004. The two companies have also agreed to maintain an open dialogue to further explore product-sharing opportunities.

"This kind of tactical partnership allows us to maximize product offerings, yet minimize costly investments such as new plant infrastructure, tooling and R&D," said Tom LaSorda, Chrysler LLC President and Vice Chairman. "This partnership will give Chrysler nearly immediate access to vehicle segments in which we do not currently compete."