2018 Fiat 500 Lounge on 2040-cars

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Fiat Chrysler to recall 100,000 Ram ProMaster vans over engine fire risk

Fiat Chrysler is recalling nearly 100,000 Ram ProMaster vans sold in the U.S. to address an overheating issue in fan motors. The recall is limited to vans from the 2015 through 2018 model years equipped with air conditioning. The recall affects ProMaster vans equipped with 3.0-liter diesel or 3.6-liter gasoline engines. FCA says the engine cooling fans may seize up and the circuit breaker may not protect them from overheating, presenting a heightened risk of fire. That’s despite a warning-light illumination in the vans. FCA first opened an investigation in July after the U.S. Postal Service reported incidents where the engine compartment caught fire. It says it is not aware of any injuries related to the issue despite 21 complaints of smoke or fire and 13 reports from dealers. A remedy is still under development. The recall is estimated to launch in the first quarter of 2020. Separately, FCA says itÂ’s recalling an estimated 51,788 Fiat 500 compact cars from 2012 and 2013 in the U.S. to replace faulty shift-cable bushings that may degrade over time from exposure to heat and humidity. That could cause the shift cable to separate from the transmission linkage, making the shifter inoperable. The company says itÂ’s aware of three minor accidents that could be related to the issue, but no potentially related injuries. Affected customers may notice looser shifter movement, although the instrument cluster will always indicate the correct gear selected. Service will be provided free of charge, and customers will be notified. Owners with questions can also call 800-853-1403. The Fiat 500 recall also affects an estimated 10,627 models in Canada, 3,520 in Mexico and 6,826 outside North America.

Fiat 500 Cattiva and Abarth Tenebra concepts showcase design to enhance personality

Fiat brought out two new design concepts at the Detroit Auto Show, both intended to expand the appeal of its 500 Turbo and 500 Abarth models with upgraded and unique appointments inside and out.
First up is the Fiat 500 "Cattiva," based on the 500 Turbo, painted with a vibrant Rame (Copper) exterior with contrasting Nero (Black) accents. The turbocharged 500 features gloss Nero headlamp buckets, parking lamp bezels, tail lamps and a roof-mounted spoiler. Special 16-inch alloys, painted satin dark gray, hint at the sport-tuned suspension inside each fender. The appointments are continued inside its cabin with leather sport seating, Matte Nero instrument panel and other trim upgrades. Lastly, the sound package is the segment-exclusive Beats Audio system.
The Fiat 500 "Tenebra," based on the 500 Abarth, is painted in Matte Grigio (Gray) with Nero accents, just like its sibling. In addition to gloss Nero headlamp buckets, parking and tail lamps, it is fitted with 16-inch alloys with a Nero chrome finish. Setting itself apart, the signature Abarth bodyside stripes (and mirror cap) are Grigio in color and there is a large Abarth "Scorpion" logo on the roof. Inside the cabin, the Tenebra features performance seats with leather upholstery, a flat-bottom steering wheel and other cosmetic upgrades. Like the Cattiva, the Beats Audio system is standard.

Fiat Chrysler completes sale of Magneti Marelli

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles completed its sale of components maker Magneti Marelli to CK Holdings Co., Ltd., the holding company of Calsonic Kansei Corporation. The Japanese parts supplier paid $6.5 billion (5.8 billion euros), which is a bit less than the $7.1 billion deal that was initially announced in October of 2018. According to Reuters, the price was adjusted based on Magneti Marelli's estimated financial position as of the closing date. The influx of cash allowed FCA to offer a special cash distribution to its shareholders for the first time in a decade. At ˆ1.30 per share, the payout corresponds to a total distribution of approximately ˆ2 billion. The dividend will pay out on May 30. "FCA remains committed to Magneti Marelli, with the new company continuing as a key supplier," FCA CEO Mike Manley said in a statement. "This sale also recognizes the full strategic value of Magneti Marelli, improving our financial position, delivering value to our shareholders and allowing us to enhance our focus on our core product portfolio." Earnings/Financials Chrysler Fiat magneti marelli