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Chrysler 200 Helps Resurgence At Sterling Heights Assembly Plant

STERLING HEIGHTS (WWJ) -  Once slated for closure back in 2010, the Chrysler Sterling Heights Assembly Plant was the site of a celebration marking the 2015 Chrysler 200 midsize sedan product launch.

Chrysler Chairman Sergio Marchionne discussed the new vehicle during the launch Friday afternoon.

Chrysler 3-14-14 (WWJ)"The (Chrysler) 200 will redefine the Chrysler brand ... we are more confident that it will make a major contribution to our continued resurgence. We are making a big bet on its success," said Marchionne. " We have invested nearly a billion dollars in this facility."

Marchionne made an impassioned speech to the workers at the plant - praising the worker's "never give up attitude" as the best in the world.

"I believe that American workers can build vehicles with a level of quality as good as anyone in the world and I believe in you the men and the women of SHAP (Sterling Heights Assembly Plant). I want to thank you very much for what you've done , but more importantly, for what you are. Thank you very much," he said to rousing applause.

The investment in the plant makes the Sterling Heights plant one of the largest and most technically advanced manufacturing facilities in the world.

While Chrysler is not commenting publicly it is widely believed that the plant could accommodate a new vehicle launch in the near future.

More from Automotive reporter for WWJ Newsradio 950 and CBS Radio News Jeff Gilbert   [HERE]

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