Mopar Insiders Articles

During a significant meeting held on Friday in Rome between Carlos Tavares, the CEO of Stellantis, and Adolfo Urso, the Minister of Business and Made in Italy, exciting developments for the Stellantis Melfi Assembly Plant in Melfi, Italy were confirmed. Tavares expressed the automotive group’s commitment to reversing the declining trend in Italian car production, … (read full article...)

In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, the resurgence of compact trucks has been a significant trend. With Ford’s Maverick making waves in the market, there’s a spotlight on the potential success of smaller pickups. However, amidst this fervor, Ram seems to be missing a golden opportunity by not capitalizing on its compact Rampage … (read full article...)

A recent fire incident at the Chrysler Tech Center (CTC) in Auburn Hills, Michigan, involving an electric vehicle (EV) prototype has been reported. According to information from both the Auburn Hills Fire Department (AHFD) and Crain’s Detroit Business, the fire occurred at the first-floor testing center of the 5.4 million sq.-ft. facility on November 19th. … (read full article...)

A piece of automotive history is poised to make waves at the Mecum Kissimmee auction. The spotlight falls on Tom Hoover’s revered 1966 Dodge HEMI Coronet, a vehicle that transcends the boundaries of classic automobiles and embodies the legacy of one of the automotive world’s most influential figures. Tom Hoover, often hailed as the “Father … (read full article...)

Stellantis, the global automotive giant, has adjusted the restart schedule for its Cassino Assembly Plant in Piedimonte, Italy. Initially slated for resumption on Monday, January 8th, the production reboot will commence on Monday, January 15th, according to inside sources. The temporary shutdown on November 30th aimed to update the assembly line to integrate the enhanced … (read full article...)

According to AutosSegredos (Auto Secrets), the FIAT brand is currently considering sending its European-built 600e to Brazil. The new B-segment crossover could make it to South America by the end of 2024. The 600e was introduced last year in Europe and is currently produced on the e-CMP platform alongside the new Jeep® Avenger and the … (read full article...)

At the end of November, Stellantis (FCA US, LLC) filed a trademark request for the name “Nighthawk” with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). While it’s common for automakers to register names for various models or trims, this one caught us by surprise. FCA US’ Jeep® brand is known for offering several “hawk” models … (read full article...)

Revving up the anticipation for automotive enthusiasts, the forthcoming Mecum Kissimmee 2024 auction promises an electrifying spectacle with a standout star: a striking 1970 Plymouth Superbird. Set to cross the auction block without reserve on Friday, January 12th, 2024, this iconic Superbird is poised to captivate onlookers with its vibrant Panther Pink exterior and notable … (read full article...)

Heading to the Mecum Kissimmee auction in January is a stunning specimen from automotive history—the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona. This particular model, listed as No. 300 in the Charger Daytona Registry, encapsulates the essence of raw power and unmistakable design that turned heads then and continues to do so now. Under its hood lies a … (read full article...)

As the sun sets on the iconic modern-day HEMI® era, the automotive world bids farewell to an unparalleled legend—the Dodge Challenger (LA). In one of its final acts for the HEMI muscle car era, Mopar unveiled a limited-edition run of Mopar ’23 models for both the Dodge Challenger and Charger. The last call for Dodge … (read full article...)

Jeep® is poised to enhance the dominance of its three-row Commander (H1) in the Brazilian market by introducing the renowned Stellantis turbocharged 2.0-liter Hurricane4 inline-four-cylinder engine. The arrival of the Hurricane4 marks a pivotal moment for the brand’s expansion in Latin America, strengthening the Commander’s position within the D-segment (midsize) SUV domain. As a frontrunner … (read full article...)

Among the prized possessions set to grace the auction block at the upcoming Mecum Kissimmee event is a true gem in automotive history: the 1970 Plymouth HEMI® Cuda Convertible. This particular specimen stands as a testament to rarity, boasting an exclusive status as one of the limited 14 HEMI Cuda convertibles manufactured during the 1970 … (read full article...)

Lancia enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike have been eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the much-anticipated new Lancia Ypsilon, set to grace the stage in Milan this coming February. With recent teaser images released, a glimpse into the design ethos and innovative features of the Lancia Ypsilon Cassina Limited Edition—the vanguard model of Lancia’s bold foray into the world of all-electric vehicles—has been unveiled. The curtain has been pulled back on a meticulously crafted rear design, showcasing the car’s signature round LED rear lights. Inspired by the iconic Lancia Stratos, these lights evoke the spirit of Lancia’s storied rally history while … (read full article...)

Scheduled to cross the Mecum auction block on Friday, January 12th, 2024, is a pristine automotive specimen that stands as a testament to the inception of the modern Challenger movement—the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 Inaugural Edition. Embodying the fusion of heritage design cues and contemporary performance, this low-mileage gem presents an opportunity for enthusiasts seeking … (read full article...)

Maserati has unveiled its first all-new North American retail store concept at Boch Maserati in Norwood, Massachusetts, near Boston. The unveiling follows the global premiere of the concept last year in Milan’s historic Magenta district and marries the refinement of a tailor’s atelier (studio) with the rawness of an Italian officina (garage) to inspire customers … (read full article...)

In a groundbreaking settlement, engine manufacturer Cummins Inc. has agreed in principle to pay a staggering $1.675 billion penalty in response to allegations of breaching the Clean Air Act. The settlement, set to be the largest ever for a Clean Air Act violation and the second-largest environmental penalty, centers on the installation of emissions defeat … (read full article...)

Despite introducing the all-new compact Ram Rampage in Brazil, Ram continues working on updating its subcompact Ram 700 pickup. The 700, based on the highly successful Fiat Strada, is sold at Ram Truck dealers in six countries: Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Costa Rica. Our friends at the Brazilian automotive publication AutoSegredos recently … (read full article...)

As the curtain drew on the vibrant era of the B-body lineage, the 1979 Dodge Magnum GT emerged as a definitive culmination, embodying a blend of iconic Charger and Cordoba features. A cherished piece from The Jeff Sparks Collection, this particular model, set to grace the Mecum Kissimmee 2024 auction block on Thursday, January 11th, … (read full article...)

The world of automotive customization is a canvas for innovation, and YouTuber Westen Champlin is wielding his brush with audacious creativity. Champlin is leading the charge in transforming a Challenger SRT HELLCAT into a four-wheel-drive powerhouse that defies convention in a daring endeavor that blurs the lines between muscle cars and off-road beasts. For Champlin, … (read full article...)

The upcoming Mecum Kissimmee 2024 auction is set to showcase a standout automotive gem: the 1976 Jeep® Cherokee S 4×4. This particular model represents a captivating blend of rugged capability and distinctive design, embodying the essence of the iconic Cherokee lineage. Originally introduced as the sportier rendition of the revered Wagoneer, the two-door Cherokee was … (read full article...)