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Slumping Sales Trigger Layoffs at Dodge Dart Factory

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV has temporarily furloughed 325 workers at its assembly plant in Belvidere, Ill., because of sagging demand for the Dodge Dart small cars made there, the Rockford Register Star reports.

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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV has temporarily furloughed 325 workers at its assembly plant in Belvidere, Ill., because of sagging demand for the Dodge Dart small cars made there, the Rockford Register Star reports.

U.S. sales of the Dart plunged 37% in February. Chrysler says the layoffs, which may last only one week, are necessary to balance production and sales.

The Star notes that true demand for the Dart is being obscured by hefty sales incentives on Chrysler's larger Dodge Avenger sedan. That model has been discontinued. But the discounts on remaining inventory has narrowed the price gap between the two models to roughly $1,200.

One analyst tells the newspaper that true market demand for the Dart may not become apparent until Avenger supplies are cleared out several months from now.

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