Chrysler Group LLC Returns Second Shift Production to Illinois Assembly Plant

- Company will add 10,000 units to Dodge Caliber production this year - Responding to customer demand for Dodge's fuel-efficient compact car - Increase in Caliber production follows addition of 50,000 units at other Chrysler Group plants

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 2 -- Anticipating customer demand for the fuel-efficient Dodge Caliber, Chrysler Group LLC is returning the second shift of production at the Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant effective October 5, 2009.

The action will increase Dodge Caliber production by 10,000 units for the North American and international markets through the end of the year, while maintaining planned production levels of Jeep Compass and Patriot, the other fuel-efficient Chrysler Group vehicles built at the facility in Belvidere, Illinois.

"We are taking this action in response to increasing demand for our most fuel-efficient products," said Michael J. Accavitti, President and CEO, Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "However, we are cautious about the continued volatility in the industry and will monitor demand in order to respond to market conditions."

The increased second shift production will add approximately 850 employees at the Belvidere facility. This action is in addition to the more than 50,000 units added to production plans at other Chrysler Group plants, that was announced earlier this week.

The 2009 Dodge Caliber offers top government safety ratings, value, bold styling and many interior innovations in a compact car that combines Dodge attitude, SUV versatility, fuel efficiency and affordability.