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Chrysler Replies to Fiat's Threats

As we told you yesterday, Chrysler's difficulties into reaching a convenient agreement with unions from both Canada and the US have placed future-maybe-partner Fiat in a defensive stance. Fiat's CEO, Sergio Marchionne was not afraid to say yesterday that the Italians are prepared to walk away from the proposed alliance, should an agreement between Chrysler and the UAW and CAW will not be reached by the end of this month.

"Absolutely we are prepared to walk. We cannot commit to this organization unless we see light at the end of the tunnel," said the CEO.

Today Chrysler released a statement in which he reacts to Fiat's comment's. "React" is somewhat of an overestimated term, as the release is rather a pale attempt to state the company's position and what it must accomplish to meet the US government's deadline. Below is Chrysler's release, as it was published by the manufacturer.

"As outlined in Chrysler LLC’s February 17th submission, the Company has been and remains committed to working with the Administration, U.S. Treasury and the Presidential Auto Task Force to secure the support of the necessary stakeholders."

"As a requirement of Chrysler’s loan agreement, the UAW must agree to a 50 percent reduction in its VEBA and match the transplants hourly labor costs in the U.S. The Canadian Government has taken a similar position, as it relates to the CAW."

"All parties have complete understanding that Chrysler must achieve the necessary concessions and restructuring targets that have been established. As it moves through this process, the Company believes it is important to keep all options open but Chrysler’s goal is to reach a conclusion by April 30 that the Government deems viable, given the guidelines that have been set."

The negotiations between the CAW and Chrysler will resume on Monday, but it is highly unlikely they will agree to the cut measures reqired by the American manufacturer. If a deal is not reach and Fiat doesn't partner with Chrysler, the April 30th deadline will be the "make-it-or-brake-it" time for the Detroit Three member.
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About the author: Daniel Patrascu
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Daniel loves writing (or so he claims), and he uses this skill to offer readers a "behind the scenes" look at the automotive industry. He also enjoys talking about space exploration and robots, because in his view the only way forward for humanity is away from this planet, in metal bodies.
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