Chrysler to Start Production of Two New Dodge Ram Models

Anthony Fontanelle
December 3, 2007

Chrysler LLC has recently announced that it will commence the production of the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs at the company’s Saltillo Assembly Plant in Saltillo, Mexico. The plant has been producing other Dodge Ram model variants like the Dodge Ram Mega Cab, Dodge Ram Power Wagon, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty 2500 and 3500 models.

Frank Ewasyshyn, Executive Vice President - Manufacturing commented: "A continuous showcase of advanced manufacturing capability and adaptability, the Saltillo facility is one of our most versatile plants and a great example of Chrysler's flexible manufacturing ability. Even with the added complexities of commercial vehicle production, we're not only able to adjust operations to better respond to customer needs, but we're also better positioned to build a positive business case for new products and derivatives as each plant is able to maximize production capacity."

Mr. Ewasyshyn added: "The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs not only continue Dodge's commercial vehicle expansion, but these powerful, capable work trucks fill yet another white space opportunity within the commercial vehicle market."

Chrysler LLC has recently invested about $48 million to support the production at the Saltillo Assembly Plant. This amount will add up to the previous investments last 2005 to produce the 2006 model of Dodge Ram Mega Cab. The Saltillo Assembly Plant now offers an additional 120,000 square-foot of expansion and includes 2,100 employees working on two shifts. Chrysler said that the plant's expansion allows the company to have an additional production capacity and enables the plant to manage the complexity of the new models to be produced including commercial-grade chassis and suspensions. The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs will be produced available in four wheelbase measurements including 144, 168, 192 and 204 inches. Four cab-axle lengths will be also manufactured including 60, 82, 105 and 120 inches. All of these models will come in regular cab and Quad Cab configurations with two-wheel- drive and four wheel drive models. The plant will produce three model trim levels for the lines 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs - ST, SLT and Laramie.

Like all other production facilities of Chrysler LLC, the Saltillo Assembly Plant also uses the company's Flexible Manufacturing Strategy (FMS). This method allows the company to manufacture high quality products faster and with lower cost. FMS uses the state of the art processing technology to produce the vehicles. FMS also allows the company to produce multiple vehicle models in one production line. Other American models like Acura (with Acura brake dust shields) should also start producing their new models to roll out in dealerships soon.

Source:  Amazines.com