MT CONFIDENTIAL

on BEV platforms. The all-electric EQC crossover that makes its debut in September is built using the MRA toolkit that underpins the E-Class, C-Class, and GLC SUV. That means it’s not a bespoke BEV architecture, so it from Cadillac in April surprised many. However, rumors of tensions between GM product chief Mark Reuss and the hard-driving South African had been swirling around Detroit for months. At issue were product development decisions de Nysschen believed hampered Cadillac’s comeback. For example, a flagship crossover based on the CT6’s Omega platform and AWD powertrain was nixed after GM engineering estimates showed it would have been too costly. Those estimates were reportedly later proven incorrect. More recently de Nyssschen had been dismayed to learn no provision had been made to package a more powerful engine in the new XT4, denying Cadillac the opportunity to create a V-Series crossover to compete with performance models from German rivals. in Sergio Marchionne’s latest five-year plan. Marchionne has made it clear FCA’s product push will be centered on Jeep, Ram, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo. He says Chrysler and Dodge are North American brands, and talk of major sales for Fiat in North America is “a waste of time.” Fiat’s focus will instead switch to hybrid and BEV powertrains for the 500 family and Panda in a bid to give the brand a more premium position in Europe. Under the plan Chrysler looks like its becoming a one-model brand, and there won’t be a single Fiat built in Italy.