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Fiat Targets US Return with Fuel-Efficient European Models

Following the major strategic alliance signed with Chrysler, Fiat aims to take full advantage of the agreement and prepares to launch a series of fuel-efficient models in the United States that would mark its return into this side of the market. Obviously, the infrastructure Chrysler currently owns would represent a major advantage for the Italian carmaker that would be able to distribute its models using a large number of Chrysler dealerships across the country.

The United States re-debut may occur in approximately one year, a Fiat insider told Autonews, with Fiat 500 and Alfa Romeo 940 likely to be the first models to be sold to Americans. Fiat recently announced it will debut the Convertible version of Fiat 500 at the Geneva Motor Show in March, but it's not yet clear whether the Italian company plans to bring it in the United States.

In essence, Fiat models would be sold through Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealers, Autonews wrote quoting the same source, with the first series of models to be distributed in the US to include only a few models. Basically, Fiat only aims to test the market before starting selling a higher volume in mid-2011.

It was only a matter of time until Fiat decided to step into the United States, with both companies confirming these plans in January at the time of signing the partnership.

“This initiative represents a key milestone in the rapidly changing landscape of the automotive sector and confirms Fiat and Chrysler commitment and determination to continue to play a significant role in this global process. The agreement will offer both companies opportunities to gain access to most relevant automotive markets with innovative and environmentally friendly product offering, a field in which Fiat is a recognized world leader while benefitting from additional cost synergies,” CEO of Fiat Group, Sergio Marchionne said.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
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Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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