Fiat CEO Statement on Chrysler Alliance

MILAN, March 30, 2009; Nigel Tutt writing for Reuters reported that Italian industrial vehicle group Fiat SpA (FIA.MI) Chief Executive Sergio Marchionne statement issued on Monday:

* Thanks U.S. President Barack Obama for his encouragement for Fiat and Chrysler

* Says convinced Fiat's environmentally conscious technologies, small and medium car platforms to play key role in boosting Chrysler consumer appeal;

* Says alliance with Chrysler to make U.S. carmaker stronger financially, help preserve American jobs;

* Says talks with U.S. auto task force been "tough but fair";