Chrysler Powertrain Chief Quits

Mircea Gradu, who led transmission, powertrain and driveline engineering at Chrysler Group LLC, has abruptly left the company.

Chrysler named Robert Lee to assume Gradu's duties on an interim basis. Lee will continue as head of engine, powertrain and electrified propulsion systems engineering.

Gradu's group was responsible for developing the complex 9-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive disconnect system for the all-new Jeep Cherokee. Problems with the system's control software caused costly delays in the SUV's launch. When deliveries finally began in mid-October, Chrysler initially tested every Cherokee it released.