Chrysler currently achieves 90% of its sales from North America, but if the newly private company has its way, it will double its international sales over the next four years as part of its plan to return to profitability.
Rising gasoline prices, declining home values, and general economic malaise have further hurt the company which, along with the rest of the American auto industry, is struggling to compete with lower-cost overseas competitors.
According to The Wall Street Journal (subscription required), "To aid its international-sales expansion, Chrysler boosted the number of products offered overseas to 20 from nine. In China, Chrysler said it is reintroducing Dodge-brand vehicles after a 62-year absence. The Caravan minivan is in production. The Caliber hatchback and Avenger sedan are also slated to be sold in that country."
I wish Chrysler the best of luck because they're going to need it. The same problems that are dogging the company here should be exacerbated overseas -- It's hard to imagine why anyone in China will pony up the extra money to buy a Chrysler when there are so many cheaper options available over there.
