Tata Motors and Fiat Chrysler Automobile (FCA) association is not new and until now have been known for their joint manufacturing initiatives. This time around, both the companies intend on strengthening their partnership to enhance technology, engine and transmission sharing between the two. The stronger association will also strengthen FCA plans to generate volumes from the Jeep brand in the country. Increased localisation will mean that upcoming models from Jeep will be competitively priced.
As indicated in reports, Tata Motors and FCA might share 2.0-litre diesel engine which can be used in the Jeep Compass or any other future product from the company. FCA plans on locally manufacturing the Jeep Compass at the Ranjangaon facility in Pune which may begin production sometime by second half of 2017. This will be the automaker’s fourth manufacturing plant with the other three based in - China, Brazil and Mexico.
Jeep Global Head, Mike Manley declined to comment on it during the LA Auto Show as the plans are in initial stages for now. However, it is clear that both the companies stand an equal chance to benefit from this association. The upcoming Jeep Compass is expected to be priced up to Rs 25 lakh. For the Indian market, it is expected to be offered in Fiat sourced 2.0-litre Multijet diesel engine which develops 165bhp of power and 360NM of torque and a 1.4-litre Multi-air petrol engine that generates 152bhp and 230Nm of torque. More details about the collaboration will be known in the coming days.
