Right now Stellantis/Ram have much greater issues than saying good bye to the Ram Classic. Sorry for not shedding tears.
So that said, how do folks respond about my latest brainstorm. Not again Mopar Willy, another “Willyism” ! Yes, sorry again. It revolves around the Belvedere plant announcement. Here goes....
The Belvidere issue serves two purposes. First, it uses the fear factor to foster reluctant support for the UAW, which behind the scenes is working to push Belvedere in a new direction after the dog and pony show of outrage and opposition is dispersed with regards to keeping the plant off line longer. Purpose two is to give Stellantis time to bring new products that features ICE and Hybrid power to the plant that might include a sedan and two SUVs, possibly built off a Peugeot spin off. That could give Dodge and Chrysler up to three or four models all built off this shared platform in about two years. The Ram mid-size truck can now be moved to Mexico quickly without major opposition. Sinister as that might seem, I present here my personal experience as evidence. I represented a major union organization in NYC and let’s just say our “working relationship” was a lot cozier and mutually beneficial than it often appeared on the surface. Our cooperative ability to solve issues that were face saving and self promotional for both parties was always part of what seemed publicly contentious labor negotiations. But, news flash, I can not tell you how many agreements were reached over lunch and cocktails rather at the negotiation table. This slight of hand existed during my whole twelve years of elected tenure. I played the game too, sorry again. I suspect the same dynamic with Belvedere, kind of a love-hate relationship, with benefits.
Well, do you guys thing this brainstorm is worth a thought or two?
Two years from now we will have our answer and I’m betting on three or four products coming out of Belvedere and not a truck in the mix.
Call me cynical, call me delusional, but this is my aging brain at work for your enjoyment. No time to say sorry.