Next-gen Jeep and Chryslers delayed, Alfas fast-tracked

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is reportedly delaying the introduction of key new models while it waits to find a suitable partner to merge with to share the costs of development.

The delays, which according to Reuters are said to affect more than a dozen current or new vehicles, are said to have been caused by FCA’s search for a suitable partner to merge with.

Suppliers also cited last-minute design and engineering changes also contributed to delays of well over 12 months on some FCA cars and trucks.

The changes are said to involve the replacement for the iconic Jeep Wrangler that originally was said to be made with aluminium panels at a new plant before FCA bosses backtracked and said it would be made out of more conventional materials.

The Wrangler was originally slated for production for July 2017 but now it’s uncertain where the new small Jeep will be made following a last-minute redesign. This has had a knock-on effect on the Range Rover-rivalling Grand Wagoneer seven-seat SUV that is also in development since it will share the Wrangler’s underpinnings.

According to suppliers, other models like the Grand Cherokee -- which was supposed to be replaced in 2017 -- are now running at least a year late, while the production of the Patriot and Compass replacement that should have begun in 2016 are now at least six months away.

The all-new Chrysler 300C, meanwhile, is now not set to be replaced until 2019 or 12 months later than scheduled.

The only FCA brands not hit by delays, according to suppliers, is Alfa Romeo, for which FCA is secretly adding new models that will both leapfrog other vehicles and go on sale earlier than planned.

Recently FCA boss, Sergio Marchionne, has stressed to importance of consolidation as a way to save costs.