Industry news: Chrysler and Fiat unveil five-year plan

November 4, 6:34 PMChicago Autos ExaminerTim Healey

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Chrysler/Fiat is busy unveiling its five-year business plan today, and from what we can tell, there are major changes in store.

First, the Dodge Viper sports car is on the chopping block--only 500 more units will be produced before the car is replaced by a Fiat-based product in 2012. Other changes? Well, Ram trucks will become their own brand, and the Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep brands will all undergo major changes.

As we reported earlier, several models will be dropped, and other models--such as the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300--are in for serious makeovers. We've also learned today that a small Jeep SUV is on the way, and that the Fiat 500 will arrive on our shores late next year.

There's more: Dodge will get a new full-size crossover SUV to compete with vehicles like the Chevrolet Traverse, and several models--like the Caliber--will get interior and/or exterior updates in the short term. Also, there is no hint of Alfa Romeo returning to the States at this time.

We'll bring you more during the rest of week, as we break down each brand's new lineups. Keep checking back over the next several days.

For more info: www.chryslerllc.com, www.jalopnik.com, www.blogs.cars.com