Who is going to service and label sprinter [Archive]

rvdriverca

02-14-2007, 10:41 PM

MB wants to sell Chrysler, who is going to carry the Sprinter badge in the future????

DaimlerChrysler considering sale of Chrysler division
GREG KEENAN, Globe and Mail Update

DaimlerChrysler AG is considering selling its money-losing Chrysler division and undoing the largest merger in auto industry history.

The announcement came as the Chrysler Group said it will cut more than 13,000 jobs, or 16 per cent of its work force, as part of its long-awaited restructuring plan, including 2,000 jobs in Canada.

About 1,650 jobs will be eliminated in Windsor, Ont., and another 350 in Brampton, Ont.

“No option is being excluded in the interest of arriving at the best possible solution for the Chrysler Group,” DaimlerChrysler said in a statement Wednesday ahead of the release of full-year financial results and the restructuring plan for the troubled U.S.-based division.

DaimlerChrysler chairman Dieter Zetsche said later, at his company's annual news conference, that the Chrysler team had “worked out a comprehensive recovery and transformation plan using all resources within DaimlerChrysler.

“In addition to that and in order to optimize and accelerate the presented plan, we are looking into further strategic options with partners beyond the business co-operation partners mentioned. In this regard, we do not exclude any option in order to find the best solution for both the Chrysler Group and DaimlerChrysler,” he said.

The company added that far-reaching options are being considered by the DaimlerChrysler supervisory board to assist in the restructuring at Chrysler, including finding a partner for the division.

kkanuck

02-15-2007, 12:38 AM

Scary Thought!

I guess we might be servicing our own Sprinters? Via Help from this forum?

acvr4

02-15-2007, 01:24 AM

I wouldn't worry since there will always be those Sprinter Techs out there somewheres :thumbup:

frostback

02-15-2007, 03:01 AM

We are already the redheaded stepchildren in Mopar circles, now it looks like we're going to be orphans.:cry:

Maybe Freightliner will adopt us? :idunno:

sikwan

02-15-2007, 03:53 AM

This will be interesting!

Altered Sprinter

02-15-2007, 08:06 AM

'Marriage on the Rocks'

A break up would end the historic acquisition nine years ago
Of the Chrysler By Damlier-Benz of Germany
Which was promoted as a merger of equals
But has ended evolved into an unhappy marriage of the opposites
============================================
From the onset of the formation of the two organizational institutes, it was clear from the start, that there was not one management! But a synergies of company management structures in place a premeditated disaster from the start back in 1998.
Towards the end of the financial year, shareholders took action in the European courts as to the structure of the marriage of inconvenience that' is now the favorite catch cry, as to being misled on the voting of the acquisition of Chrysler. French courts are a little liken to the Spanish inquisition, "No holds bared."
In 2006 Daimler Chrysler US division reported a 1.5 billion loss , discounts of invoice pricing, zero interest if you had credit rating A, were on the go along with trying to move 128 days of inventory stocks, even today You have stock locked up, not sold in the holding yards.{Dated 2006}
Exclusion from the discounting were The Sprinter,with a range of trucks, as they were the bread of the profitable side of the companies products sold! "Or were They?''
With the Stock holder base of investors, who finance the corporations finances, it was to become evident as to collusion to collude with price fixing between countries of origin and or between boarders, this has cost the Damlier-Benz corporation millions of Euros since 1995, the last one was between The North American sector between large pricing discrepancies between Canada and the United States. NAFTA lodged a complaint under the free trade agreements with the European courts, under the anti-trade Sherman's act of price fixing and collusion to collude between boarders, with price fixing and restricting Franchises! 'To compete with The American side of the Boarders', where intimidation of threats, as to with-drawing a franchise agreement was proven."Look at the infighting with Dodge and freightliner". If the Franchise did not co-operate with DCX and Damlier-Benz depending on which franchisee was selling either Dodge or Mercedes products. It was proven! But due to the numbers of vehicles sold, the European court of Justice, was limited to handing out a slap on the wrist of a few million Euros, based on a figure of numbers of vehicles sold,that did not meet the criteria for Fraud related transactions by Corporate management CEO'S
With a further 13000 Jobs to go in The North American sector along with over one million auto workers in the N/American sector, this further erodes the confidence of Ordinary folk who now worry how to put food on the table and pay the mortgage off where there has been a 50% increase on mortgage defaults figures, in the US Housing sector in the last year.
With The announcement of the shake up in restructuring the financial side of the DCX group, shares have plummeted, as Damlier-Benz shares have increased with an expected decision that may well be foundered to 'Dumping' off the side of it's unprofitable operations mainly in the sedan manufacturing sector,speculators and future traders are having a ball.
Although the Damlier-Chrysler Division made an operating profit across the board in the N/American sector from All D.C investments 7.3 billion it's critical with the introduction of the New Sprinters and pricing today for it's continued association with the synergies of management to repair and turn around it's operating profits,with Mazda and Renault waiting in the backgrounds, like vultures looking for a quick meal,specialize in the manufacture of global small medium sized vehicles where profits lie not in a high Speed production 600HP Viper.
Mercedes is not a small car manufacture it specializes in the high end market place I guess it's saying enough is enough.
Links to pricing for the 2007 Sprinter
Dodge Announces Pricing for All-New 2007 Dodge Sprinter: Financial News - Yahoo! Finance (http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/070214/clw001.html?.v=81)

Chrysler V Damlier.jpg (http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1039&stc=1&d=1171529053)
With a marriage on the rocks, and the show room on the blocks
The question is Who will survive.?
'Lord won't you buy me a Mercedes-Benz'
Richard

Zach Woods

02-15-2007, 10:29 AM

Maybe Freightliner will adopt us? :idunno:

Howdy Frostback -

You might be correct about Freightliner.

Ironic given that the Sprinter was taken away from them and given to Dodge but if the merger is disolved Daimler will still likely have Freightliner and that would seem to be the logical place for Daimler to put the Sprinter (given the refusal by MBUSA to sell trucks).

The talk of disolving the merger first started up 6 months or so ago (at least in the US press). How recent is the article posted at the beginning of this thread?

Zach

Altered Sprinter

02-15-2007, 10:42 AM

Todays news I would think, this is hot news at the moment in Europe the stock markets,are sending the hedge fund operators into a frenzy, and up to date by the hour postings on business news .{Reuters}
I hope it settles down as to the saber rattles, it gets folk nervous.
If any one wants the info I can link them in.
Richard

Altered Sprinter

02-16-2007, 07:56 PM

GM to buy Chryslerhttp://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/images/icons/icon4.gif
Yesterdays news is always tomorrows news :thinking: as previously stated somewhere back in the pages that the the only ones after a quick buck to destabilizes the auto industry is the speculators in the stock market , playing the future markets , hedging against future stock profits:thumbdown: D.C Will continue to support to refinance the DCX Group the second time in six years, as a desperate but not impossible approach for it to become a profitable exercise for the stock holders, who have invested into the Damlier-Benz Damlier Chrysler group of subsidiary's over the last 10 years. The latest attempt is the final warning for the DCX group to get it right, with the management of the DCX group , retuning , the works, cut backs , in production in the engine plants and manufacturing plants for the Chrysler Vehicles in the N/American sector are only the first signs to indicate all is not well, with job losses totaling 13000 from blue color workers to administration through to out sourced company's supplying parts, this will have immediate ramifications throughout the Manufacturing industry, that has a flow on effect that ripples through out the States, in other sectors of the economics of the North American economy.

Seriously The Sprinter of 2007, Has more importance attached to the success of the Sprinter than has a 600HP Viper.
To indicate how a rummer can circulate to further erode confidence in a company that ultimately impacts upon it's day to day operations down to the bread and butter line of the show room floor, read this link below.
GM to buy Chrysler (http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/newsanalysis/automakers/10339450.html?cm_ven=YAHOO&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA)
Any comments?:professor:
Richard

sikwan

02-16-2007, 08:18 PM

Altered Sprinter

02-16-2007, 08:34 PM

I don't think this will happen due to GM's legacy costs. Even if it does, which I will be VERY surprised, the Sprinters will either leave the US market entirely or be distributed/serviced by Freightliner.

Seek
I agree its the sedan section thats losing money not the truck division, even if they did sell out, the Sprinter has too many advantages over locally built Van units. But think of this senerio IF GM :lol:did buy out the division! How long would it take for GM to bring the Iveco in ?
Richard

Zach Woods

02-17-2007, 12:28 PM

I agree its the sedan section thats losing money not the truck division, even if they did sell out, the Sprinter has too many advantages over locally built Van units. But think of this senerio IF GM :lol:did buy out the division! How long would it take for GM to bring the Iveco in ?
Richard

Howdy Richard -

I understand the market resistance issues (which Dodge has encountered with the Sprinter) but otherwise I don't understand why GM (or somebody else given the dissolution of the FIAT GM connection) hasn't already brought Iveco (in a big way) into the US.

Obviously there would need to be a dealer and service network to support any new brand introduced into the US (or any other market), and the US consumer can be very prickly (true in other countries also) about foreign brands, but I see solid technology and designs that are available elsewhere and that could at least serve a niche need in the US.

Zach

poolmike

02-19-2007, 10:05 AM

GM doesn't want to destroy itself by bringing the Iveco in the market. The only thing keeping the US auto industry alive is it's trucks.

Altered Sprinter

02-19-2007, 10:36 AM

Poolmike Both CM and Ford have one problem , and that is the billions that are involved with future advancement to technologies costings involved to produce a brand new safer and environmentally friendly truck for the U.S markets as to the pre production costings of setting up tooling for a new vehicle, Both Ford and GM are playing the game of finding alliances to share and reduce costings of manufacture to it's vehicles, both of the Big three have the same local problems either with sedans or SUV trucks etc, it's only the truck sales that are keeping the companies going, however share holder based investors and Banks make the final ultimate discussions, between the three main players, its a desperate chase to win back profitability, either these manufactures form an alliance with an another manufacture, or the Feds will have to to bail them out! At the moment it's anybody guess, as to speculation that's rife at the moment.
Richard

Altered Sprinter

02-21-2007, 09:40 AM

I don't think this will happen due to GM's legacy costs. Even if it does, which I will be VERY surprised, the Sprinters will either leave the US market entirely or be distributed/serviced by Freightliner.

Seek
Just simple a twist of fate!
Chrysler focuses on revised local targets

Chrysler media release Australia.
CHRYSLER'S Australian out post is convinced reports of takeover talks "have no substance" and will stick to it's task of meeting revised targets from a recovery plan unveiled last week
The plan, which cuts thousands of US jobs,"holds no negatives for us" said Damlier-Chrysler Australian spokesman David McCarthy, while an increased focus on international growth would deliver cars better suited to local buyers.
He expected revised targets for Australia to be "in-line with our ambitions"
but said "it's going to be a challenge to achieve them"
With just 16 per cent of current sales out side of the the US, the recovery plan aims to double global volume to 400,000 by the turn of the decade with 20 new vehicles and 13 face lifted models in Australia. Chrysler plans to double sales of it's three brands to 20,000 over the next two years with a roll out of at ;least 15 new or revised products.
This year alone, that will include three new Jeeps, a second Dodge model and two versions of the mid-size Chrysler Sebring.
" We've got a tough task ahead of us in the next couple of years" __it is our ambition for the Chrysler group to be a top 10 player in terms of sales " Mr McCarthy said"
"The recovery plan will help us do that because it focus the vehicles being produced ones that will be more successful in this country, there are products coming in 2008 that will be very solid for us and will provide growth that previously may not have been coming"
He said Australia was already one of the top ten international markets for the Chrysler group, and the local operation was performing well "We make a good contribution _ To profitability We punch above our weight. and run a lean operation. "he said"
With most of Chrysler vehicles built in the US, The Australian subsidiary benefited from bilateral free trade agreements which meant imports escape tariffs.
The new models , which begin arriving next month with the new generation Jeep wrangler and the new model Compass, would be "aggressively priced" to win buyers.
In last week's recovery plan the company detailed 13000 job cuts and a 400.000 reduction in production capacity following a $US 1.5 billion ($AU1.8 billion) loss by Chrysler last year.
The plan set a goal of returning to profit next year, but rumors that Damlier Chrysler would jettison the American company centered on an admission by chairman Dieter Zetsche "that all options are on the table"
Mr Mc Carthy poured cold water on the reports.
"There is nothing coming to me officially or unofficially that any of those rumors have substance" he said, although he admitted collaboration between the two on future models was possiable.
top level talks with General Motors over the future of Chrysler are thought to have started last December, although neither company will comment on the timing of the first meeting.
This week Times, London reported that an auction process for Chrysler had already began with information packs being sent out to potential buyers.
Speculation has linked Chrysler with Renault-Nissan, Hyundai, and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation and Chery in China.It is expected to be worth about US$ 7Billion.

Editorial Notation: With thought to watching and to reading reports based on fact and Myth the above narration from the Australian executive is the most factual information to date, as it alinement's to the fact the Damlier Chrysler Group is not about Dumping of a $36 million investment for one million at a fire sale. rather it is looking to alliances with other manufactures to cut costings by sharing technology and to future global growth in a very un easy market.
China is a large growth market Mercedes and Chrysler can provide vehicles for this market via licensing agreements with Chinese manufactures , this allows a competitive edge with Copy right design within China.
Merging with GM to share engine and SUV'S makes, reduce costings towards alliances, lessens competition , as to discounting "thus semi controlling prices that are economically viable"
Mercedes has an agreement with BMW and the VW group to share similar programs with each others makes, it does make sense.
In Australia Chrysler Vehicles are sold via the GM network of franchisees holders, it's worked well over the last ten years as to increasing sales and no losses.
Richard
DaimlerChrysler will import Dodge vehicles to China this year - AutoWeek (http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070216/FREE/70216002/1528)
Report: Chrysler and GM to team up for large SUV - AutoSpies Auto News (http://www.autospies.com/news/Report-Chrysler-and-GM-to-team-up-for-large-SUV-12639/)

xtraworx

03-20-2007, 09:24 PM

Local Dealer (Mac Haik in Temple TX) told me that the Chrysler sell off is a myth which started when DC, GM, Toyota and others had meeting last December to discuss a 'common gas engine manufacturing facility in US'. Seems they all use the same or similar engines so why not build them on the same line. Someone in press picked up on this and assumed DC was selling C to others!

frostback

03-29-2007, 02:20 AM

Pressure mounts for Chrysler sale.

http://www.spiegel.de/international/0,1518,474340,00.html

sikwan

03-29-2007, 06:15 AM

Man, this is going to be interesting.

This is certainly going to create an impact on the service centers for Sprinters in North America. If the sale of Chrysler goes through, I'd bet the new assembly plant...

http://www.internetautoguide.com/auto-news/25-int/27374/index.html

...which according to the article has officially kicked off production yesterday, will continue to build the Freightliner badged version. At least we'll still have Sprinters on the road.

Altered Sprinter

03-29-2007, 08:49 AM

I stand by post 15
The report is a mishmash of February's posts by DC
DC wants to solve it's problems that's for sure but it's no fool either, The strategy is to join forces with other manufactures to share costs and build towards a better future with the N/American sector.and it's long term strategy for engine production plants, and Blutec programs.
However the day of decisions are near, as to resolving the losses with the sedan sector! and how it's to be effectively managed? DC can't do it from Germany. And have never been good at it anyway, so the solution is to find equity partners to inject funds and a positive management team to run the U.S division, I would not rule out Blackstone from not entering the the sale but they would be only part of it, DC still needs to have manufacturing facility's and it also needs to resolve the union issue.
Freightliner truck division is in the black so that would stay , or at least remain in the shareholders portfolio, for the future.
Sprinters will remain as to there being no other vehicle being manufactured in it's class...
Speculation from the media is not helping as this puts a hick-up in place with sales, as to prospective customers waiting in line for a long term commitment.from DC or DCX.
April to May something will be said
But as the Dr said all proposal's and options are on the negotiating table, I guess we will all wait and see as to where the cards will fall.
Richard

rvdriverca

05-13-2007, 10:42 PM

Cerberus Capital could win bid for Chrysler over Magna
Last Updated: Sunday, May 13, 2007 | 5:06 PM ET
The Associated Press
Private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management LP may be the top contender to buy DaimlerChrysler AG's struggling Chrysler Group, according to a newspaper report.

Cerberus has been holding extensive discussions with DaimlerChrysler on a possible deal, the Detroit News said Saturday, citing people close to the sale process whom it did not name.

The newspaper said two other contenders — Ontario-based Magna International Inc. and a Blackstone Group-led consortium — have not been involved in advanced talks since submitting bids.

A decision could be made soon on a preferred buyer for Chrysler, the newspaper said.

DaimlerChrysler spokesman Han Tjan said he couldn't comment on the report.

In 2006, Chrysler lost $1.5 billion US and is undergoing a recovery plan that will cut 13,000 jobs in Canada and the United States, and pare back production.

In February, DaimlerChrysler announced that all options for Chrysler were on the table, including a sale.

Analysts have said that Magna, the Canadian auto parts supplier, is the front-runner in its bid to purchase a stake of Chrysler.

Among the others reportedly interested in Chrysler is the consortium of investors led by Blackstone. Neither Blackstone nor Cerberus has confirmed its interest. Billionaire investor Kirk Kerkorian, who tried to take control of Chrysler in the 1990s, also has said he would make a bid.

© The Canadian Press, 2007

Altered Sprinter

05-14-2007, 12:01 AM

US Vehicle sales continue to fall May 2007

Ford is meaner and leaner
GM is in a total Spin

Daimler has not dumped the Chrysler division
Local domestic vehicles are continuing to decline in the US Markets, this is a sure sign of a GDP fall off in reflection to economic uncertainty.

Imported vehicle sales increasing, Toyota now has No1 position in US sales.
The hard yards for cutbacks along with massive job cut backs to sustain! 'Is a reflection of decades of mismanagement's', lack of visionary projections to productivity, to sustain profitability.
Volume production, versus Quality!
Middle class, and the poor buy the bulk of vehicles! 'based on what one can afford', discounting is the norm! 'a precedent now mind set', in the sands of time.
Will the last person out, Please turn off the lights.
Richard

gerrym51

05-14-2007, 12:21 AM

MB will keep a minority interest in chyrysler.

i'm sure dodge will still sell the sprinter van

gerry

jdcaples

05-14-2007, 12:32 AM

How exciting!

sikwan

05-14-2007, 02:37 AM

Just heard it on the radio too, about 3 hours ago. The German principals are so entrenched (invested) in the Chrysler division that it would be a bad idea for them to lose such interests entirely.

:thumbup:

AVL_Sprinter

05-14-2007, 12:36 PM

Here is what I heard this morning.... Monday May 14th.

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=3171042&CMP=OTC-RSSFeeds0312

Altered Sprinter

05-14-2007, 01:50 PM

It was only This morning that I said will the last person that leaves the building!"
"PLEASE TURN OFF THE LIGHTS"
Official statement from Damlier Chrysler AG Germany
DaimlerChrysler - Investor Relations - News & Ad hoc - IR Releases - Cerberus Takes Over Majority Interest in Chrysler Group and Related Financial Services Business for EUR 5.5 Billion ($7.4 billion) from DaimlerChrysler (http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/dccom/0-5-7171-1-858192-1-0-0-0-0-0-87-7164-0-0-0-0-0-0-0.html)

Over the last few months I have stated that ultimately the Chrysler division was on the blocks no bars Hold.
The decision's was forced by investors, as to the continuing losses of the Chrysler US division
Plans were implemented to cut back on production, by six percent, and reconstruct the financial arrangement of Chrysler for a long term equity partnership, or alliances that are friendly towards the AG group.
In fact Chrysler basically gave the money to Cerberus to get it, to retire continuing debts in the N/American sector, It has retained a 19.9% interest in the Chrysler division which still leaves the AG Group with considerable influences, 'with decision making as to Chrysler's long term viability'.
It's main interest is in the trucking division which retains a 7% profitability in sales, it does not lose Money.
Personally as an investor with the group I consider this to be the only solution in the short term prospectus of the futures market, due to non a committable or transparent commitment to the US auto industry,with the US Government to play on a level playing field with the NAFTA free trade agreements.
When the take over starts in the next quarter, remember that there is a cost $$$$$ attached, This will reflect through management to production and credit facility's right down to franchise holders.
I have not had the time as this would take at least a month to try and project the New direction of unknown horizons the new Management will take in it's short term takeover or to it's longer term visions, of continuances with Chrysler's production
Question What stays in the US and what will be outsourced?
Question doesthis mean AG pulls back from the US to Germany as the head office! If so this means price increases as to the way Sprinters for example are sold.
Question Does the Dodge Sprinter remain in both Dodge and freightliner hands or does it mean Dodge is dumped in favour of freightliner? Hard call freightliner has only three hundred franchisees with a license to sell Sprinters out of the 400 Franchises in the N/American sector, parts are sourced from eight storage facility's this means even longer delays to obtain parts.
07 sales on hold as stated this had nothing to do with model years as the Sprinter is imported changes of upgrading in Europe was already on it's way .
Europe and the UK have a very strong economy and sales are exceptionally high for Commercial vehicles in Europe , which have a higher retail price attached to the Sprinter as opposed to the Sprinters being considerably cheaper in the States. Invoicing brand new models at dealers costs, out side of the States is unheard of.

Canada is another possibility of them being sold via Mercedes_benz franchises as there is a strong network of dealer ships in Canada the Vito is being considered as an import to Canada, to be sold via the M-B Network, this wont happen stateside as to the superstructure with the retained truck divisions.
Media reports will be rife, and I would not take much credence with what they may say as to biasness, due to advertising contracts with Chrysler.
At the beginning of the year I made the remark that the Sprinter was in an orphan year,in the US as to the way the engineering has been developed to the Sprinter, it's years in front with the standard Particulate filter and Bluetec , this has been a headache for the AG Group in Germany as to de tuning the Sprinter to met US emission controls.
The one bonus that will come out of this sell off is the Sprinter will hold it's value and continue to increase in holding future prices, with Summer on it's way and fuel prices going up towards 4 bucks a gallon , they will be a much sought after vehicle, in the year to follow.
I'm not making a negative remark, This was predictable, the US manufactures have to make a decisions as to it's viability in a very competitive world market.
Either it gets out of the industry altogether, or it starts to build quality instead of Volume.
The key to success is management and a loyal worker base, where a vehicle can be presented to the US buyers that have faith in its product, manufactures only have to look at what is imported to see what is being purchased , by the American public.
Richard

SprntrStkd

05-14-2007, 02:47 PM

Sounds like our NO. Amer. Sprinter's are becoming quite the commodity!

FYI - Diesel is now 20 cents below regular gas here in Socal!

xtraworx

05-14-2007, 09:18 PM

Central Texas is also 20 cents cheaper -- for the first time in years.

Texas is also considering repeal of state gas tax for the summer months = 20 cents / gallon.

Altered Sprinter

05-14-2007, 11:12 PM

Daimler Chrysler's explanation for selling
Future direction

Official reports
1863

1864
Richard
1865
1866
1867

BESLC

05-15-2007, 01:39 PM

I am a bit confused. So will MB now sell and service the Sprinter in the U.S.A. or will Dodge and Freightliner retain the sales and service?

Altered Sprinter

05-15-2007, 03:19 PM

I am a bit confused. So will MB now sell and service the Sprinter in the U.S.A. or will Dodge and Freightliner retain the sales and service?
It's mid-nite down under and the lights are full on, as the clock chimes out its warning.
MB is a privately owned consortium of franchise's they sell the Mercedes-Benz sedans only.
The Sprinter will be continued to be sold via Dodge and Freightliners dealer ships, there will be changes but this is to soon to speculate, on how it will be managed.
In short this is how it works Daimler Chrysler has off sold Chrysler to Cerberus at a give away price basically they have infinaced the deal.
It became obvious that although Daimler has spent a small fortune of monies to reconstruct the Loss making division of Chrysler, to a situation where there are now positive steps to wards its long term future , as out of the big 3 Chrysler has 31 new vehicles to sell and its has the youngest of vehicles on the US market for sale as opposed to both GM and Ford using the best part of thirty year old technology.
Daimler had the hopes of finding equity partners to merge with as an alliance to off set RD costings and share facility's to maximize profitability, unfortunately because of the health Plans and retirement packages in place this has been a major negative to move forward with as both Ford and GM have the same problem with the unions it's virtually non negotiable and a stale mate situation of no return, has finally came face to face with the reality, of the final show down in the US auto sector and Canada.
In less than five years the US automotive section will change forever The unions will take this to court and win on a high moral ground , but the inevitable will eventuate half the work force will go, work place contracts will become the norm, efficiency and profitability will return as a positive result, of future transactions with Management and the work force, health planes and pensions will also be reduced but with a trade-off with a higher wages for, productivity, this will not show in any media release until much latter on, by the time it does become common knowledge, the game play will be set and matched, there is no return to yesterdays games Check Mate.
Daimler Chrysler has basically given away 360 million dollars to avoid bankruptcy which would effect its share base.
The deal goes like this Cerberus a private equity company invests 5 billion 1.05 billion goes to the Chrysler Financial arm, and pays a further 1.35 billion to Daimler Chrysler. Daimler AG auto maker has brokered a deal to absorb 1.6 billion to refinance Cerberus to reconstruct Chrysler, in effect it has given away 400 Million but increases its share holdings of profitability by 30 to 40% in less than twelve months.
Daimler AG sells of the Chrysler's division thats losing money, it also gets rid of the Health care and pension liability of 18 billion to Cerberus, but retains 19.9 % equity in Chrysler, Daimler AG retains the truck division supply's parts fro Chrysler cars and finances Cerberus , It also retains 100% of the finance division in effect it is the main mortgagee.
This is historically the most complicated deal ever struck in the world today by a private equity company that usually buys at undervalued prices and strips and sells off the sections to make a profit, Cerberus has to make money! It says it's banking on a strong economy and what the Americans want from a vehicle.
I've seen this once before back in 1998 the exact same set up is on the agenda again today, except on a massive scale this time round, and its not going to be a happy marriage of convenience, the only way this can work is to cut the work force in half by negotiating with the powerful UAW unions IF a satisfactory compromise can not be reached Cerberus will declare insolvency, and declare Bankruptcy under Chapter 11, this will force the unions to accept the offers on hand and I have suspicions as to both Ford and GM watching like hawks who have the same problems, Unions have to accept the inevitable.They will have no choise loss entilemnts or accept the deal of losing half the work force and hard won rights, I don't agree with all of what unions want, but united they stand divided they fall and the managers know it.
Inside of five years Cerberus will sell for a handsome profit, there will be a domino effect to this plan and a China Melt down will result, if the game is played by the players in the direction I thinking they will take, if I am right in my analogy, the changes in the N/American sector will be massive, managment wins and wins, the workers rights will be degraded as a result but there will be growth in the economy, and growth drives wages up! 'in the long term;.
In brief to nite I looked at the Daimler AG strategy's and I found three synergies of management's playing the game of deceit, where production ,productivity and profitability via Management have joined as one team to achieve the ultimate goal.a lot of innocent folk will be hurt over this conspiracy to decive.
WHO OWNS CHRYSLER.
Richard

gerrym51

05-15-2007, 05:24 PM

My prediction,

the UAW will go on strike in september against chrysler.

Ford and GM will lockout their workers without a contract.

there will be no american cars built from september to february

before strike/contract settled

gerry

SprntrStkd

05-15-2007, 07:50 PM

I'd say Dr. Z looks a little confused...er....uh..concerned in that pic Richard posted...is he stroking his neck-rock?

Altered Sprinter

05-15-2007, 11:49 PM

Too soon for strikes, the transfer will take a full quarter, Cerberus will tread ground softly, softly, testing for the weakest points, forming alliances to left and right factions,finding safe ground, before the slaughter of the lambs begin.
look to the top end of town, watch and listen to who is burning the midnight lamps, and who's talking to WHO!
I smell a rat and it goes to the top of the Hill, This could very well be a conspiracy to change work place practices forever, to force the work force to toe the line.
Unions are still a major force to be reckoned with, to achieve a national change in work place practices, it will involve Government cooperation to succeed.
Revolution of the Masses! "Blood on the tracks"
Orginized unionized blockages of transport, and water front import export blockages hit and strike,A little bit of History repeating on itself'.
ACT ONE: The revolt of the masses
Scene 11: The gathering of the swarm .:wtf:
Richard.

jdcaples

05-16-2007, 01:54 AM

...

ACT ONE: The revolt of the masses
Scene 11: The gathering of the swarm .:wtf:

...
Richard.

Waiter!! I'll have what he's having - but make it a double

georgetg

05-16-2007, 02:22 AM

Richard,

I think you're thinking in the right direction.

My guess is the management types at the big three have been looking longingly at the playbook of the US airlines.
Using the cover of bankruptcy to shed legacy union contracts.

By the way, MBUSA is NOT a private company.
MBUSA is wholly owned by Daimler(Benz now I suppose)

MB has avoide selling MB commercial vehicles for marketing purposes and because of US import tarrifs of 25% for commercial vehicles.
Instead, MB has aquired US manufacturers like Freightliner Sterling Thomas, etc. to sell commercial vehicles in the US.

My prediction:
The Sprinter will not be pulled from the US market.
The Sprinter will once again be sold and serviced by Freighliner.
There is a slight chance Sprinter will become a "brand", just like what MB has done with the MB Unimog (sold as the Unimog "brand" in the US)

Cheers
George

gerrym51

05-16-2007, 02:53 AM

Richard,

Normally i would agree with you about being to soon for a strike.

However the union contracts expire in september.

so this issue will have to be dealt with then.

i still stick with my prediction.

gerry

sikwan

05-16-2007, 03:36 AM

:popcorn:

I'm almost giddy to see what happens next. I don't know why. It's not like I'm waiting for the real estate market to implode so that I can pick up some deals. :smilewink:

I'll throw in my :2cents: from what I've read here and elsewhere...

- Chrysler goes private
- UAW negotiations
- UAW Strike or
- Chrysler to file Bankruptcy
- Legacy costs go to the tax payer
- Chrysler is sold or becomes public

I'm sure the Sprinter will stay in the US regardless what happens to Chrysler. :D

jdcaples

05-16-2007, 05:50 AM

Misc thoughts.....

A few Freightliner tidbits, perhaps lost in the excitement

Sale (of Chrysler) won't affect Freightliner

http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/othercities/portland/stories/2007/05/14/daily5.html

Freightliner needs truck orders to keep employees

http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/othercities/portland/stories/2007/05/14/daily14.html

Those two articles aside, last Saturday I went to the Portland Freightliner Sales and Service facility. There is no shortage of trucks in for service and not many trucks on the lot - new or used - for sale. I saw at least a dozen people working on vehicles large and small.

I talked to one of the Sprinter-selling reps today. They're still swamped with Sprinter orders; lots of calls, lots of interest, lots of test drives, lots of research action items coming away from the sales process. I didn't ask about medium and heavy duty rig sales, though.

The service at that the Portland, OR site is better than some of the Frieghtliner (Sprinter) service I've read about in other parts of the country.

I don't have a sense of how much loyalty the medium and heavy duty owner/operators feel towards Freightliner. Most of the trucks I see around here are Freightliner, but I'm in the Pacific Northwest; in Freightliner's back yard.

To me it looks like Freightliner's healthy, but I know that's a slice of the Freightliner presence and experience, not a broad view.

Still, I'd welcome a wholesale adoption of the Sprinter and a general polishing of the service level across dealerships.

Expediters should have the same level of confidence that big rig drivers get for maint and repair: 7x24 and plentiful parts. It just makes sense.

I wouldn't mind seeing Dodge give the Sprinter up... Dodge is on every street corner, but not every Dodge dealership sells Sprinters. When I started shopping around, many Dodge sales drones weren't even familiar enough with the vehicle to know their dealership didn't sell 'em. Several people said, I can order one, only to come back and say, "sorry."

That's pathetic.

Who ever owns warranty, service and sales after the sale's complete has a chance to make it a booming success.

I'm excited and I'm on board for the long haul.
-Jon

Altered Sprinter

05-16-2007, 11:34 AM

================================================== ==========================================
Interesting comments from above
Fact Sprinters remain
September union contracts! Who's it with?
New entity, new players no Contracts
Legal questions Take time to resolve.
Stalling tactics, part of the game in play.

LLC has been financed via EUR to absolve Damlier Chrysler's AG free of debt with the Chrysler division.
UAW Ron Gettelfinger welcomes Cerberus on board Lunch has been arranged.for dialog:shifty:
I once met a man who wore a coat of decency! How be it can deceive. "when the truths in our hearts"!'Yet we still can not believe'????

Dr Dieter Zetche" All along the watch tower ,I shall watch and guard to preserve the truth.
1870
Who is Cerberus!
Quote:Act one: Revolt of the masses.
Scene Two: The gathering of the swarm.

Intermission
And Folks! :This ain't no missionary position.

Act Two:
"Welcome to your worst nightmare"
Let me introduce you to Cerberus
and the three head dog from the gates of hell
This is not a Greek Myth
------------------------------------------

1871

Ron Gettelfinger!'you are lunch'

1872
Scene 3
The slaughtering of the lambs

This has potential copy right
It could be better than Alfred Hitchcock's Physic !or the Birds?
After all we already have a cult following:professor:

Richard:popcorn:
I'll leave you with a hint
Patrick V Corriagan 1998
This resulted in world wide liner alliances
and changed the face of water front unions

GM and Ford :shhh:

gerrym51

05-16-2007, 12:53 PM

Richard,

the UAW contracts with the Big 3 expire in september this year.

gerry

kendall69

05-16-2007, 01:57 PM

If it was just the Auto workers that stood their ground then Cerberus, might have a chance, but all union workers would revolt and Cerberus, will go down in flames.

No trash pick up, no trucking to the plant, no electricians to repair the plant etc.etc.etc. Total freeze out, Cerberus will cave like a sand castle at the beach.

gerrym51

05-16-2007, 02:57 PM

antthing is possible,

but- when the contract expires chrysler will not have to pay
the workers if they are on strike or locked out.

since they are losing hundreds of millions in north america
chrysler will probably be losing no more than it does now.

other unions striking does not affect cerberus. they are only the car
company.

Public pressure would be on both the UAW and cerberus to agree
to a contract.

your kind of thinking is exactly why i think there will be a strike.

the UAW will cut off its nose to spite its face.

gerry

Altered Sprinter

05-16-2007, 03:19 PM

Richard,

the UAW contracts with the Big 3 expire in september this year.

gerry
OK Looking at the bigger picture.
I have a contract up for renewal with the UAW:shifty:
So rather than continue with tax liability's and continuing losses, I have to make amends to my investors and bankers.
I arrange to find a friendly corporation to trade with and retain equity, but at the same time absolve my principal company from contacted debts, and continuing health and pension benefit liability's of 18 billion dollars.
To retire debt! I need to sell of a loss making division, knowing I have invested in the company that has strong future prospects, I will advance the alliance company monies to help it along, in doing so Instead of a making a loss in the following year, I stand to reverse debt and make a tidy 40% gross profit.
By selling to another company I am no longer attached to ongoing debt as this is now part of the new companies debut structure.
Now bare this in mind, this was planed over a twelve month period before a timed sell off I need to increase our shares by future stock market speculations, did alright out of to, I don't mind saying:smilewink:
Lets say the company with three heads and no soul is set up to take control, It in effect has a inherited contract with the Union in place that coincidentally just happens to be up for renewal.
Negotiations are held, the union wants guarantees and no job losses and including wage increases for it's members.
The dog with three heads from hell says ! Half the force goes , full entitlements will be payed , then we will offer you a flexible work place contract with less benefits but higher wages in return for more productivity.
Talks break down, running strikes are interment, {Funny thing here, where was the money coming from to pay half the entitlements in the first place, this dog has no money to pay out this amount of 9 billion dollars????}
Seems its been under written and signed off by the Government! under the table deal no strings attached, just get rid of the Union.
Last minute offer Unions win the court cases, as to a conspiracy's to deliberately force closure of Contracts and work staff:thumbdown:
However the dog with three heads has this one already worked out, says to the union , if you don't agree to our terms we shut shop at 5'Oclock the banks are foreclosing thats Damlier AG barking at the dog with three heads, we declare insolvency and file for chapter 11 under the bankruptcy act,
I mean guys you have no forwarding orders,{PROCESS ALREADY IN HAND} hear in the wind the man in the brown coat from the feds been blowing too much soot at he freightliner division on emissions too,} and we can not afford to continue paying for you, you get no payouts, and lose your jobs in it's entirety, as we are now selling and striping the company assets off, by the liquidators.
The union has no where to go but except the new work place agreements, thus a New Chrysler is born free of debt.
This allows for future RD for the feds EMISSIONS controls and MPG restraints on fuel economy including the rebuilding of older superstructures.
I am a one minute manager with three strategies in mind, productivity Growth and wealth.
After all I'm a dog with three heads with an "Altered State OF Conscience" and I can no longer stand on my high moral grounds of right or wrong, because I'll be damed if I do and damed if I don't'
The rich get richer and the poor get poorer,
How do I get away with this.????
Protection from Lawsuits.
We live in a litigious society. Everybody wants a piece of your action. The rich hide much of their wealth using vehicles such as corporations and trusts to protect their assets from creditors. 'When someone sues a wealthy individual they are often met with layers of legal protection , and often find the wealthy person actually owns nothing. They control everything, but own nothing.The poor and the middle class try to own everything and lose it to the government or to fellow citizens who like to sue the rich. They learned it from the Robin hood story, Take from the rich, give to the poor.
It is not the purpose of this note, to go into specifics of owning a corporation, but i will say that if you own any kind of legitimate assets I would consider finding out more about the benefits and protection, offered by a corporation as soon as possiable.
Financial IQ is actually the synergy of many skills and talents. But I would say it is the combination of stratagems of eliminating threats to the wealth and liability of a corporation.that ultimately make up financial intelligence, to survive in a competitive market.:professor:
Seriously I make fun of editorials Been there done that, but There is truth behind this,think about it.
Now look at the biggest conspiracy of all, FORD and GM are in the same boat of no return.
IF GM and Ford as well as Chrysler were to fold, can you imagine, the ramifications that would rock through the entire N/American sector, even the Government could never afford to absorb to reconstruct the dinosaur companies who have squandered the wealth of the working Americans future, The Governments has no qualms about this, its a cheap way out for them to underwrite the Benefit issues, that are so close to exploding.
Richard

gerrym51

05-16-2007, 03:30 PM

I'll stand with my original prediction

september strike by UAW adainst chrysler
lockout by GM and ford

settlement in february 2008

gerry

Altered Sprinter

05-16-2007, 03:31 PM

BaywoodBill

05-16-2007, 04:10 PM

Altered Sprinter

05-16-2007, 11:24 PM

Richard, your comments are interesting and your output is prodigious. Your arguments are strong, especially when considered in the light of the 1998 waterfront dispute as you so aptly pointed out.

Save the economy by destroying it. http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/alles_moegliche/mixed-smiley-011.gif
Ha! That smiley was dead for a bit and I thought you meant the book of relativity {Save the economy by destroying it}
there is a free online ecommerce book on google search called
{ Economic theroy in retrospect} all 169 pages well worth a read seeing I'm a worm.
The water front dispute in Australia changed everything down under, we hurt for a few years but came through it strong, as unemployment is down to 4.4% of our GDP.
There is a down side as there is a posative side. to change, I guess this is why education now is so important, right down to highly trained and multi skilled workers.
No pain nothing gained.
Richard

michigandon

05-17-2007, 06:58 PM

There is a slight chance Sprinter will become a "brand", just like what MB has done with the MB Unimog (sold as the Unimog "brand" in the US)

'Mogs were sold by Case tractor dealerships :thinking: for a while back in the late '70s/early '80s.

Altered Sprinter

05-18-2007, 02:47 PM

Changing of the Guard:shifty:

About to sign off and go to la, la, land looking at the local news in the US and Canada.
I think my predictions were spot on , as the dog has already leashed out on reneging on its part of the deal.
Looking for Global partners! Thats a Joke, in part, Chery Damlier AG has already done this deal with China.

Richard
UAW cuts could be on the horizon (http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070515/AUTO01/705150377)
Backing sale was UAW's only option (http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070515/AUTO01/705150396)
Chrysler seeks global ties (http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070516/AUTO01/705160409)
1888

jdcaples

05-18-2007, 05:05 PM

Perspective Sprinter buyers can view models and options on the Dodge website, though you couldn't put together an actionable list until pretty recently.

There was no such analogue on Frieghtliner's website; no shopping/buying tools at all.

I noticed that today that Freightliner's announced a change to meet that deficiency.

http://www.fl-sprinter.com

(lower left corner of the home page).

Here's the pertinent text from the (not obvious "click on this graphic") link
---
"Coming soon"

With our new eQuip upfit option - the industry's first and only tool of its type - you can transform your new Cargo CUV into a work vehicle designed around your needs. Now you can customize your upfit package, choose form the most popular shelving or accessory upfit package for your business type or select a vocation-specific featured special.

To execute this pioneering tool, we've partnered with five of the leading upfit specialists to ensure your upfit components and installation meet the high demands of Freightliner Sprinter.

Both the eQuip tool and the Build & Price application will be fully operational shortly. If you'd like to be notified when they will be up and running, please provide us with your email address and we will send you a notification.
---

Altered Sprinter

05-19-2007, 12:03 AM

Well there you go Freightliner aliening with local manufactures
We've been doing this for decades, as to up selling added value, to wards a vehicle sale, more commission for the rep.

Now you know you have a local source, and your paying through the nose for the parts .
Think Smart and look about for a compatible products of similarity, and save thousands on your new vehicle purchase, added acc/ is where the most profit lies on a sale! You did the best deal on the unit price, and saved a buck.
Stop and think:idunno: "Your on the stealer-ships hooks", your being wound up hook line and sinker,for acc/s at above retail pricing, the savings have gone out the window! 'Your payments go through the roof!' , and that's real smarts:bash: when the first payment is due.
Salesman Say's because its an authorized item by Freightliners you have warranty,:professor: And you do have the same, if bought elsewhere:shhh: but don't let that one on, or you'll put the salesman on the poor mans list of a lower income.
Creative optioning, and financing.
The rich seduce the poor, and the poor are seduced by the rich.
Richard:tongue:

jdcaples

05-19-2007, 12:52 AM

Well there you go Freightliner aliening with local manufactures
We've been doing this for decades, as to up selling added value, to wards a vehicle sale, more commission for the rep.

I'm just glad Freightliner's making plans to make information available without using the voice of salesdrone.

I think it shows that someone at Freightliner is thinking that it's a good idea to help buyers by letting them think in privacy, not in front of a salesdrone. That there's a convenience of local upfitters that will help customize a vehicle is not, in itself, evil or predatory. Like all systems, it can be used, or ABused. "Buyer beware" is still prudent. If don't know that principle, you're vulnerable anywhere, buying anything.

-Jon

Altered Sprinter

05-19-2007, 05:05 AM

So true Jon
finding middle ground is the hardest part of forming a long term relationship,
Freightliner is thinking ahead, thats the difference between Dodge and Freghtliner, the future is bright if it's done right.
Richard.
ASK THE TREE OF LIFE,:bow: it stood, the test of time.:smilewink:
1889

codermotor

05-20-2007, 01:57 AM

Altered Sprinter

05-20-2007, 05:27 AM

So, what the does the future look like for the Sprinter?
Once the politics are sorted out, a better future than both Ford or Chev. you only have a choice of gas or diesel and one transmission
How difficult is it going to be to order one to spec, including engine and color?
If you want to special order to specs. place it with the dealer and wait.
Is the apparent scarcity pushing the price over MSRP?
Supply and demand dictates the end price, values of second hand sprinters world wide, have jumped by five thousand dollars on trade back. over the last six months.
If we have buy one out-of-state (we're in San Diego), what about service?
Not the answer you may like, If you don't buy from the dealer your going to have it serviced at, "Attitude" Well you didn't buy from us why should we bother to give you customer service, this has repeated time and time again on different forums, Buyer beware.

It almost seems there is less interest among dealers in selling these things than the market demands.[/quote]
This is a traineeships problem via management's, not unique to America , Sprinters seem to be the odd ball not a high volume seller as opposed to a quick turnaround on common make, Sales folk really get wound up when you question them as to their non existent intelligence base of vacant space up in the head depot, of no return.
Happy to sign you up on the spot! "no questions asked, Next"
In reality you have placed the salesman in an awkward position ! This pushes the salesman out of his comfort zone, they don't like being asked questions beyond color and acc/ anything mechanical and most run a mile, Call it Entrapment. or reverse psychology, in effect you have pushed the envelope outside of the square, in doing so by showing your interest based on knowlage you have consequentially taken control of the sale.
I'm not being smart, but think about it.
Learn about the product inside and out, be sure it is the best option for your requiremnts, and then take the time to which options! 'suite you best'.
Richard

jdcaples

05-20-2007, 02:47 PM

We will be in the market for a new van in the next 12-18 months. My wife is disabled, and we do transportation for other disabled friends, so we need an accessible full-sized van. The Sprinter seems to be the best choice - at least in terms of specs. Our preferences are a 170" WB, diesel passenger van, heavily optioned.

However, I'm getting the impression that not only may it not be possible get the options we want (esp. diesel), it may be difficult to impossible find one at all. If so, we'll end up getting a Ford E350 extended wagon instead (on which the diesel is no longer an option).

So, what the does the future look like for the Sprinter?
How difficult is it going to be to order one to spec, including engine and color?
Is the apparent scarcity pushing the price over MSRP?
If we have buy one out-of-state (we're in San Diego), what about service?

It almost seems there is less interest among dealers in selling these things than the market demands.

As Richard stated, being informed is the most important aspect of buying a Sprinter.
Best Choice: I think the Sprinter is the best choice out there.

Heavily optioned: order in the next 6 months if you want it in 12
I strongly recommend hitting a site like http://www.sprintercenter.com and

1) Using such a website to put together a “wish” list of Sprinter options (by order code and option “description”). I used such a site to determine mutually-exclusive options.
2) Writing down every question about every unclear option
3) Refer to that list when you find a dealer you want to visit in person

Dealers have a book of options, descriptions and pictures (for many, but not all options).

This is an option example:

CUN Overhead console with two reading lamps

Difficult to order: It is hard to figure out which options you want and to make certain you have ordered what you had intended. If you have a laundry list, like I did, it would be best to pick a time when the dealership is not swamped. Set the sale rep’s expectation that you have a list of (5, 10, 15, 20?) option codes and you’d discuss them and place an informed order. I explained it like this,

“Hi. I am interested in ordering a 2007 Sprinter. I have 37 option codes I would like to discuss and possibly order. This might be time consuming. What works best for you? Mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekdays or weekends?”

Engine and Color: Both diesel and gasoline engines are available this year. I would expect them both to be available for the 2008 model as well. There are many colors available. Some paint jobs add $1,000 to the price.

Price: The price was not over MSRP in March, but there was not much of a “discount” either. Call around. Get bids. Play dealerships against one another if you are able. In San Diego, Rancho Auto Group seems to have a monopoly, but maybe you can find a competitor in Los Angeles or somewhere between the two metro areas.

Dealer interest: They can sell more Chargers, Crossfires and Caravans than Sprinters. It costs dealers money to train technicians in the Sprinter-authorized dealer-investment. A dealership with a commercial customer base is more likely to sell Sprinters. No dealership is obligated to sell Sprinters.

Service: Any dealership that sells Sprinters should be able to service Sprinters, but you are wise to consider the ramifications of the DaimlerChrysler divorce. Many Dodge dealerships do not sell Sprinters. Rancho Auto Group, according to Dodge’s website, sells Sprinters. Rancho Auto Group’s website seems to confirm it (http://www.ranchoautogroup.com/dodge) and they are in the San Diego area.

You are seeking a Sprinter Wagon, 170-inch wheel base. This gives you an advantage over me because I wanted a cargo van. The cargo models have more options than the wagons.

Attached is a list of current wagon options. Use it to create your own list. Find someone to place the order for you. You might have to wait 4-6 months after placing the order for delivery. See your dealer for details.

-Jon

gerrym51

05-20-2007, 03:23 PM

jdcaples

05-20-2007, 04:05 PM

I have a different suggestion,

why not deal with sportsmobile of california. they understand and know
how to get sprinters, are not that far from you, and will build it
exactly as you want. isuggest you go to thier site. they also deal
with disability companies that can equip it

gerry

On the east coast, to borrow from the passenger side, rear view mirror: "objects on the map are closer than they appear."

On the west coast, there's something like 400 miles, aka 6.5 hours of driving between San Diego and Fresno.

Of course, breaking in a new Sprinter by driving through the Grapevine or down PCH has its appeal.

Another plus: Gerry's right. Sportsmobile would probably be able to pull off a graceful, reliable wheelchair lift and maybe even an electric slider door (which is described in my 2007 Freightliner Owners Manual, but impossible to order).

-Jon

BaywoodBill

05-20-2007, 04:14 PM

jdcaples

05-20-2007, 05:23 PM

Sounds like you have come up with the perfect solution for this man... an all-in-one one stop shop. :rad:

Well, codermoter expressed a concern about pricing in the climate of demand exceeding supply and perhaps driving prices over MSRP.

It's good codermotor gets to evaluate Sportsmobile, thanks to Gerry.

However, customization can be pricey, as Richard pointed out. Granted that's true about everything... it all comes down to value.

I still think an informed buyer will get the best deal, economically and the best deal from an engineering/function/suitable-to-task perspective.

However, if part of the "deal" is avoiding the headaches of option overload, avoiding ill-informed salesdrones and getting what you want at a price that won't bankrupt the family, an upfitter like Sportsmobile is a fantastic alternative.
-Jon

gerrym51

05-20-2007, 05:40 PM

Well, codermoter expressed a concern about pricing in the climate of demand exceeding supply and perhaps driving prices over MSRP.

It's good codermotor gets to evaluate Sportsmobile, thanks to Gerry.

However, customization can be pricey, as Richard pointed out. Granted that's true about everything... it all comes down to value.

I still think an informed buyer will get the best deal, economically and the best deal from an engineering/function/suitable-to-task perspective.

However, if part of the "deal" is avoiding the headaches of option overload, avoiding ill-informed salesdrones and getting what you want at a price that won't bankrupt the family, an upfitter like Sportsmobile is a fantastic alternative.
-Jon

just an added aside to your message Jon,

Codermotor:

i have been having some initial dealings with sportsmobile of
Indiana. Even though they have certain options supposedly already on
to be ordered cargo sprinters- this is not written in stone- they will
order it with any option wanted or deleted- as long as it does not
directly interfere with conversion

for example. i thought bi-xenon lights were pricey and unnecessary
they said they would order without if thats what i wanted.

i suggest you make any request you want. if its possible they will
attempt to accomodate you.

gerry

codermotor

05-20-2007, 08:04 PM

I appreciate all the suggestions and feedback. Thanks to all.

I would like to add a little clarification to my situation. I had already done a lot of research on vans to meet our needs before I posted here. That's how we decided on the Sprinter. I had also researched available options, including codes and pricing (both invoice and MSRP). I agree that the Option Code data is not very well organized, but I think I managed to nail it down by looking at several websites (including Dodge). So you can see, we already know exactly what we want. (BTW, the 144" WB is acceptable if cost or availability precludes the 170" - but we do need the high roof in any case.)

As for cost, my wife will be receiving funding through grant programs to pay for the van, lift, tie-downs, etc., up to about $52K. Full funding is expected to be available within 6 to 18 months. While it's not our money (the grants will pay for the van - we'll never see any of the money ourselves), we'd still like to get the most for the money, and funding organizations don't want to pay for more than necessary any more than anyone else.

So the gist of my previous questions had more to do with availability than configuration, options, function, or cost. I had gotten the impression that supply was tight on the Sprinter in the U.S., and that dealers, or even Dodge, might be unwilling to build to order by the time we are fully funded and ready to buy, and we'll either be stuck with a poor selection which barely, or even doesn't, really meet our needs. Worst case: we have to go with a Ford (which we've also researched thorougly).

We're just trying to get a feel now what the supply will look like when we are ready to buy, and if needs be, make contingency plans (e.g. look at other brands). I do have some technical questions, but I'll ask those in another thread.

Again, thanks all for the input.

(P.S. What's with this site timing my login out? When I try to actually preview or submit this, it says I'm not logged in.)

jdcaples

05-20-2007, 10:31 PM

I appreciate all the suggestions and feedback. Thanks to all.

I would like to add a little clarification to my situation.
...
I agree that the Option Code data is not very well organized, but I think I managed to nail it down by looking at several websites (including Dodge).

...
So you can see, we already know exactly what we want. (BTW, the 144" WB is acceptable if cost or availability precludes the 170" - but we do need the high roof in any case.)

... about $52K. Full funding is expected to be available within 6 to 18 months. While it's not our money (the grants will pay for the van - we'll never see any of the money ourselves), we'd still like to get the most for the money, and funding organizations don't want to pay for more than necessary any more than anyone else.

...
We're just trying to get a feel now what the supply will look like when we are ready to buy, and if needs be, make contingency plans (e.g. look at other brands). I do have some technical questions, but I'll ask those in another thread.

Again, thanks all for the input.

(P.S. What's with this site timing my login out? When I try to actually preview or submit this, it says I'm not logged in.)

Funding: It's good to know there is funding available for these kind of things. I had no idea.

I'm surprised there isn't some kind of competitive bidding process/justification but its absence promotes choice and I'm all for choice.

Data: Chrysler couldn't get the data processing from Germany right either. There's a letter on starparts.chrysler.com explaining that the Sprinter team went to Germany to figure out why the data processing failed so miserably and apologizing to the parts managers of dealerships.

Availability: I'm only familiar with the Cargo van information. The wagons come into Florida whole instead of in Cargo Van pieces (partially knocked down kits) into South Carolina for reassembly. South Carolina can pump 32,000 units a year. That's the bottle neck for Cargo vans. I don't know how many wagons are shipped to Florida or what governing choke-factors might exist.

Reauthentication: There's an OSI L7 authentication timeout in play. The work-around is to take the cookie that is part of the HTTP session, allowing for for automagic re-auth upon executing an HTTP method (GET/POST etc) to the (HTTP) server.

The cookie cost may not be worth it to you, in which case, you're paying the re-authenticate piper instead.

-Jon

Altered Sprinter

05-20-2007, 11:11 PM

Thanks Jon and Jerry
Quick point to the time out depending on the computer it may have a security automatic pop up that needs to be set to accept the site at the bottom of the screen there will be a small icon in red , if you point your cursor to this it will show in English [security report] this means your search engine browser is set for Goggle, in pop-ups OK it will show blocked in red reset it to accept the browser other search engines have similar like Symantec Security or VMN that has a globe with a key setting Auto sign in your online accounts etc.
Codermotor as both Jon and Jerry have said you have options to follow, My original statement of delays is because of the DIVORCE from Chrysler there will be unknown factors at play as to who has the Sprinter in different franchises .
As for those dam codes with different number sequences VW CRAFTERS sorted that out in plain English you order as to the description NO CODES, but dint tell Dodge please:cheers:
Thanks for your assistance Guys in helping Codermoter
Richard
VW have a brilliant set up unfortunately the dealers have no clue at all just like some dealerships , its a case of Duty of care to your customer base.:smilewink: 1898

1899