Chrysler launches major cost-cutting initiative
DETROIT (Reuters) - DaimlerChrysler AG's (DCXGn.DE) Chrysler Group has tapped executives from its German parent's Mercedes division to work on a restructuring plan, including cutting $1,000 from the cost of each vehicle it makes, the company said on Friday.

"We are now putting a plan together to put Chrysler back on track," DaimlerChrysler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche told CNBC in an interview from Paris. "We first have an opportunity with eight new vehicle launches this year for the Chrysler Group, but we are also looking at the cost side."

The Wall Street Journal reported the study would also look at closing a Chrysler plant in Newark, Delaware, that makes the Dodge Durango and the Chrysler Aspen sport utility vehicles.

Sales of large SUVs have dropped this year because of higher gasoline prices. Chrysler said last month it misjudged demand for those vehicles and expected to post a loss of $1.5 billion in the current quarter as it slashed production to try to run down an inventory of unsold trucks and SUVs...
source (http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20061020/bs_nm/autos_chrysler_dc_4)

The $1,000 cut is in the cost for DCX to produce each vehicle. I'm pretty sure this does not mean a cut in the prices of the vehicles when sold to customers.

Maybe thats why they took that part of the website off where you can price one?

That would be pretty sweet if they lower the price some more. I think that may convince people who are considering not waiting anymore, to continue waiting. What a deal that would be!

I doubt it. Like Captain Crash said, I think they are just cost cutting. If I recall, hasn't DCX recently reported losses? They are probably just trying to cut the cost of production so they can get back into the black figures.

I can't see them cutting prices,no matter how nice that would be.In my opinion I thought the price of the Patriot was very reasonable compared to some other vehicles.

I can't see them cutting prices,no matter how nice that would be.In my opinion I thought the price of the Patriot was very reasonable compared to some other vehicles.

Yeah. $20k is pretty reasonable for 4WD, four cyl. with decent interior. Especially considering the standard safety features. It's union made, it's a trusted brand.

Let the company keep the extra grand and make some money for a change. Just don't screw me at the dealership.