Plant Manager Michael Brieda at the launch of the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, May 6, 2016. (Photo by Maureen Revait) Plant Manager Michael Brieda at the launch of the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, May 6, 2016. (Photo by Maureen Revait)
Windsor

Hybrid Model Bringing Excitement To WAP

Challenges lie ahead for the Windsor Assembly Plant, as different versions of the Chrysler Pacifica roll off the line.

Plant Manager Michael Brieda says 2016 was a busy and exciting year with the launch of the new van.

"It doesn't get any easier for us. It's the end of the year, now we start building the plug-in electric hybrid version of the minivan," he describes. "So more complexity, a new challenge, but something we're excited to be a part of -- building electrified minivans -- you know, we're the only ones that build them."

Since its launch in May, Brieda says Fiat-Chrysler's been focussed on selling the Pacifica in North America.

"Six months ago it was rare to find one [driving on local roads]. But now it's like, I must have seen about three or four just driving home yesterday, in the city [of Windsor]," he explains. "That's very encouraging."

In the new year, with the addition of the hybrid model, he believes there's going to be a strong international push.

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