DETROIT, July 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The following can be attributed to Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler Group CEO.

"Chrysler Group's decision to keep the Sterling Heights (Mich.) Assembly Plant (SHAP) open beyond 2012 and add a second shift of nearly 900 workers in early 2011 was reached in order to support the company's long-term product plan. After a careful review of all of our manufacturing operations, it became evident that more production capacity was needed and it made good business sense to extend the life of SHAP.

The Company values the strong partnership with the State of Michigan and the City of Sterling Heights. We appreciate the tireless support we have received from Governor Granholm and D. Gregory Main, Chair of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, as well as Sterling Heights Mayor Richard Notte and the City Council to retain jobs in Michigan.

Chrysler Group wishes to thank members of the Michigan delegation, particularly Senator Carl Levin, Senator Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Representative Candice Miller and U.S. Representative Sandy Levin, for their commitment to supporting future production at SHAP.

We also want to acknowledge Vice President and Director of the UAW's Chrysler Department General Holiefield for his work in fostering a culture of change throughout our manufacturing operations.

Maintaining production in Sterling Heights will be mutually beneficial for the City of Sterling Heights, the Company and the employees that work at the plant."

SOURCE Chrysler Group LLC

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