Marchionne Admits Fiat 500 Sales Target Was "Incredibly Naive"
The Fiat 500’s spectacular failure – selling less than 20,000 units in 2011, despite projections of 50,000 units sold- is quickly becoming the stuff of legend in automotive circles. Sergio Marchionne told CNN Money that the goal wasn’t really based on anything but wanting to beat Mini.
Marchionne dismissed Fiat’s failure as a “rounding error” due to Chrysler’s overall sales of 2 million cars in 2011. According to him, plans for further product roll-outs, as well as the inevitable delay of an Alfa Romeo introduction, is still in the cards.
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Americans don't want to buy a style over substance underpowered metrosexual city cruiser built by FIAT (a brand known for its rock solid durability) following a government bailout of Chrysler? I'm shocked and amazed! As for Marchionne, give the guy a job in DC. He makes a bold statement of moving 50k units, but when he fails to even reach half of that he attributes it to a "rounding error." Such incredible ineptitude with large sums seems to fit right in with our Congressmen and other numerically retarded elected officials. Next year what's the target? A billion?
Can't explain why, but the 500 is a hit in Palm Springs. Had no idea they came in so many colors/option packages. I like small cars, but a Fiat sold by Chrysler? Doesn't strike me as a good idea.
Fiat/Chrysler needs to put a Hyundai like warranty on this car ASAP
I cruise the highway in my company Transit Connect. I'm doing the limit or maybe a bit less. Smarts pass me all the time. I have seen a few 500s, but havent paid attention to their speed