Chrysler Group LLC Reports May 2011 U.S. Sales Increased 10 Percent, Best May Sales Since 2008

Chrysler Group LLC recently reported U.S. sales of 115,363, a 10 percent increase compared with sales in May 2010 (104,819 units), and the best May sales since 2008.

Chrysler Group’s all-new or significantly-refreshed 2011 models continue to drive monthly sales gains. The new 2011 Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan, the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango SUV, the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and new Jeep Compass, and the new 2012 Fiat 500 all significantly contributed to Chrysler Group’s 10 percent sales increase in May.

“Chrysler Group just posted its 14th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains, confirmation that our 2011 models continue to resonate with consumers,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO — Ram Truck Brand and lead executive for U.S. Sales. “Our retail sales were up 27 percent in May, driven in large part by our new models. Ram pickup trucks and all of our Jeep brand models posted sales increases in May, despite high, fluctuating gas prices.”

The Jeep and Ram Truck brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in May. The Jeep brand’s 55 percent increase was the largest of the Chrysler Group brands. The Ram Truck brand posted a 13 percent sales increase in May. Ram pickup truck sales were up 16 percent, compared with the same month in 2010. Both the light duty and heavy duty pickup trucks, along with the chassis cab, saw year-over-year sales gains. This was the brand’s 13th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

In May, the Ram Truck brand introduced the Ram “Long-Hauler” Concept Truck, a vehicle designed for hauling, range and comfort. On display at select events across the country, the Ram Long-Hauler is based on a Class 5 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab and is designed to tow multiple or heavy trailers and drive long distances. Designers upped the range between refueling stops with a mid-ship fuel tank. Combined with a second frame-mounted tank and a third, optional, bed-mounted auxiliary tank, total fuel capacity is 170 gal.

Also in May, Chrysler Group, working in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, delivered the first of a demonstration fleet of Ram 1500 plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) pickup trucks to municipal officials in Yuma, Ariz. The 10 PHEV Ram 1500 pickups are part of a national demonstration fleet of 140 vehicles that will be used during the next three years to evaluate customer usage, drive cycles, charging, thermal management, fuel economy, emissions and impact on the region’s electric grid.