BOLOGNA, Italy -- Fiat’s relationship with the independent parts and repair sector is known to be an amicable one with the European auto industry. What will this mean for the newly inked Chrysler deal?
If the automaker’s current programs are any indication, the company’s anticipated U.S. presence could mean one of collaboration for the auto aftermarket, but the level of control in this relationship is yet to be determined. And bankrupcty approval of this partnership is still pending.
At a European Automotive Aftermarket Symposium at the Autopromotec trade show, Fiat’s Pierre Fleck outlined the company’s link.e.service program, which the executive vice president of FGA parts and services describes as a fully integrated system with repair shops that handles everything from service appointments and schedules to training programs for the techs.
“Link.e.system is a completely integrated system that helps us manage the complete repair and service cycle,” says Fleck, who adds that Fiat was “green” before it became a fad. He quoted liberally from Pres. Obama’s push for a future that focuses on fuel-efficient vehicles.
Ecology has become a way of doing business, admits Fleck.
He believes Fiat’s strong message has led to partnerships such as the Chrysler deal, in which the sale is expected to bring the ailing company out of bankruptcy within 30 days of its April 30 filing.
The timeline for the Chrysler deal is especially critical as it was recently reported that if the company's sale of most of its operations to Fiat isn't approved by bankruptcy court, all 3,181 of its remaining dealers could face elimination.
Fiat has prided itself on its unique control of both the OEM and the aftermarket channels for its products and services.
The company has been a leader in natural gas technology for 10 years, Fleck says, adding the automaker recently introduced the "multiair" system, which will further help reduce the emissions of its vehicle fleet.
Fiat also offers a “green checkup,” a service that helps lower the environmental impact of the vehicles in operation.
Fleck offered attendees of the symposium this message: “Today, despite the fact that the automotive sector is going through the most difficult period in history, Fiat is a sound organization and is willing to look to the future with serenity.”
Check out more of our detailed coverage of Autopromotec 2009, which runs through May 24.
