US: GAZ to buy Sebring/Stratus assembly line from Chrysler

By just-auto.com editorial team | 18 April 2006

DaimlerChrysler has announced that it will sell the former Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus assembly line to Russian carmaker GAZ.

The sale will be conducted through a US-based exporter, East Coast Trading Company (ECTC).

The equipment will be shipped from Chrysler's Sterling Heights plant, which is currently benefiting from a $US278m investment program to install flexible manufacturing systems.

GAZ will have full vehicle production and sales rights in Russia and other CIS countries. It told Associated Press it will build up to 65,000 cars annually.

GAZ will also purchase 2.4 litre engines from Chrysler's Saltillo, Mexico, plant for use in the Chrysler-based cars, as well as its Volga and Gazelle vehicles.

Sectors: Emerging markets, Vehicle manufacturers, Vehicle manufacturing

Companies: Chrysler, GAZ, Dodge