Chrysler Recognizes Outstanding Performance by its Minority Dealers

-- Chrysler minority dealers recognized for retail performance and community service participation

-- Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman and President Jim Press delivered keynote address

AUBURN HILLS, Mi - February 12, 2008: Chrysler LLC recognized the retail successes and community contributions of its minority dealers at the annual meeting of the Chrysler Minority Dealers Association (CMDA), held in conjunction with the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) conference in San Francisco.

The average annual throughput of 574 units for minority dealers is 46 percent higher than the annual throughput of 394 units for the overall dealer body. Collectively, Chrysler minority dealers employ more than 5,000 people nationwide.

"Our minority dealer partners continue to work hard in the retail marketplace and that hard work is displayed in the results obtained in 2007," said Cecil Ward, Senior Manager - Network Diversity and Dealer Development, Chrysler LLC. "Organizations like the Chrysler Minority Dealers Association are great resources for helping our minority dealers compete effectively in today's retail market."

Dealers were also recognized for their dedication to superior customer service as determined by surveys submitted by customers after an experience in a dealership. On average, 58 percent of Chrysler minority dealers are certified as Five Star dealers, compared to an overall average of 56 percent.

Several minority dealers in attendance received special recognition for their commitment to community service where they have distinguished themselves within their communities. They are: Carlos Hildago of Folsom Lake Dodge, Folsom, Calif.; Jay Rivchin, South Dade Dodge, Miami; and John Roy of Southland Chrysler Jeep, Southhaven, Miss.

Chrysler Vice Chairman and President Jim Press

Chrysler Vice Chairman and President Jim Press treated attendees to a keynote address where he outlined the importance of the minority dealer body, their retail sales contributions and the importance of the CMDA organization to the future success of Chrysler.

"The dealer body is Chrysler's hidden strength," said Press. "The hard work and commitment of our minority dealers in particular generated over $7 billion in retail sales last year and employed more than 5,000 people."

The 184 minority dealers that sell Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge products represent 5 percent of the total dealer body, but contributed 7 percent of the company's retail sales in 2007.