Marchionne Vows New 5-Year Plan for Fiat

Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne says he is working on a new five-year strategy for Fiat SpA that includes another effort to revive the company's ailing Alfa Romeo brand.

Marchionne tells analysts they can expect to hear details of the Alfa plan in late March and the new Fiat strategy about one month later.

Alfa sold about 102,000 vehicles last year only one-fifth the volume Marchionne predicted by 2014 when he unveiled the original Alfa revival scheme three years ago. That plan has been delayed by redesigns and the sluggish European car market.

Fiat has been developing a new rear-drive/all-wheel-drive platform to carry a variety of Alfa, Chrysler and Dodge vehicles, according to Automotive News Europe.

The online newspaper says the adaptable chassis will be used for at least four Alfa models, including a midsize SUV, large sedan and the next-generation midsize Giulia sedan and wagon. The first of the new Alfas is due in about two years.

ANE cites unnamed sources who say the platform also could carry replacements for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans and Dodge Challenger coupe.