Chrysler’s Imminent Demise: Can the Automaker Survive Just 2 More Years?
Stellantis’ Future: A Fork in the Road for Struggling Brands
As Stellantis, the parent company of iconic brands like Chrysler, navigates its five-year plan, known as Dare Forward 2030, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s in store for the struggling makes that haven’t quite made the cut? With an ultimatum from CEO Carlos Tavares to either shape up or ship out in a decade, the clock is ticking.
A Turning Point for Stellantis Brands
According to Tavares, Stellantis will review each brand’s performance about two-thirds of the way through its strategic plan, which translates to a timeframe of two to three years. This milestone may mark the point where the company decides to allocate further resources to under-pressure brands or, alternatively, make some tough decisions about their future. While Tavares didn’t specify what those decisions might entail, one thing is certain: the end is near for those that don’t meet expectations.
Chrysler’s Future in Question
Among the most imperiled brands is Chrysler, with only two models under its belt: the Pacifica minivan and a rebadged version of the last-gen Pacifica as the Voyager. The brand’s plans for an electric crossover based on the Airflow concept were met with poor reception, leading to a restart from scratch. The result was the Halcyon concept, which, if anything, looks far too radical for Chrysler to actually sell. But there are whispers of a Chrysler twin to the Charger Daytona EV, which, if true, could signal a return to the brand’s roots or send it off with a bang.
What’s Next for Stellantis?
As Tavares’ successor takes the reins, the company will have to grapple with the consequences of its decisions. Will Stellantis cull its struggling brands or continue to pump resources into them? Only time will tell. As the clock ticks, one thing is certain: the future of these iconic brands hangs in the balance.