Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is expanding its Jeep and Ram brands with new production capacities and facilities in Michigan. The updates are part of the company’s plans announced in 2016 to expand both fast-selling automotive brands for future production needs.
Two new Jeep branded “white space” vehicles, both bearing the name of the Wagoneer of old, will be introduced soon to compete in more upscale, large-format SUV segments. Electrification of current Jeep models is also underway via the expansion and upgrade plans, which include changes to current production facilities for that purpose.
Investments include a $1.6 billion upgrade to convert the Mack Avenue Engine Complex into a manufacturing site for a next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee and the new Wagoneer models to be introduced. This will add about 3,850 new jobs.
A $900 million investment at Jefferson North will retool and modernize the plant for continued production of the Dodge Durango as well as the next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee. This will add about 1,100 new jobs.
The Warren Truck investment made in 2017 will grow to $1.5 billion to add the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer to the production line alongside the Ram 1500 Classic already made there. This will add about 1,400 new jobs.
All three plants are being upgraded to accommodate plug-in hybrid powertrain options for the Jeep models in them, including flexibility to build battery-electric models in the future.
Further investment will upgrade the Sterling Stamping, Warren Stamping, and the Dundee Engine Plant (which will take on Pentastar production).
FCA says that the expansions will mean not only more jobs and production, but give the company the flexibility of production it needs to continue growth. Many of the planned updates and changes are contingent on land acquisition and commitments by the cities of Detroit, Sterling Heights, Warrren, and Dundee as well as the State of Michigan.
