DaimlerChrysler has decided to build a successor to the Mercedes Benz A-Class but cancelled plans to develop a small Chrysler passenger vehicle for the European market, reports Automotive News Europe (17/7/00).

The fate of the `baby benz` was sealed at a management board meeting on June 26 and 27, in Stuttgart. Disappointing profit margins was considered one of the factors for the A-class` demise, with the vehicle set to be replaced by 2004.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Quoting a DaimlerChrysler manager, the report says that the company is to offer a premium small car, alongside an extended Smart model range and small vehicles from Mitsubishi. The Group`s small-car plans for the European market will not involve Chrysler, says the article.

Just Auto Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Auto Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Continental has secured the Window Displays Innovation Award in the 2025 Just Auto Excellence Awards for its Window Projection solution, transforming side windows into dynamic, data-rich canvases. Discover how this compact projection technology and intelligent software are reshaping in-car UX and opening fresh revenue streams for OEMs and mobility providers.

Discover the Impact