Chrysler announced it is splitting its Dodge Ram brand into an entity separate from the Dodge car business. The new Dodge Ram Brand will be led by Fred Diaz Jr. as president and CEO.
“The brand-focused strategy has been refined further with the unbundling of the Dodge Brand, which now consists of the Dodge Ram Brand and the Dodge Car Brand organizations. This reorganization will allow us to protect and develop the unique nature of the product offerings within the Dodge Brand,” Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler Group CEO, said.
Chrysler is now owned by Fiat, which previously announced it would no longer sell the Dodge Sprinter van as the company tries to reposition Chrysler to compete in the U.S. auto market.
The company is also gearing up production of the Ram for 2010, causing Cummins to recall 270 workers to meet demand for the 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine in the truck.
The increase will mean a second shift of workers at Cummins' Columbus, IN, plant. The shift will remain in full operation until the end of the year.
A Chrysler spokesperson declined to comment on the need for the additional engines.
