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| The 2004 Pacifica, loosely based on minivan architecture, is now being built in Windsor alongside Chrysler Group's popular people hauler. This photo shows the first Pacifica leaving the line. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
National CAW President Buzz Hargrove was also on hand during the proceedings. He said, "Chrysler Pacifica production at the Windsor Assembly Plant greatly contributes to the job security of the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) Local 444's membership and is a testament to this workforce's ability to assemble quality products."
The new model also conveys Chrysler Group's commitment to flexible manufacturing processes. "Flexible manufacturing efforts at the Windsor Assembly Plant have helped reduce capital expenditures for tooling and facilities by about 30 percent," commented Tom LaSorda, Chrysler Group Executive Vice President-Manufacturing. "This effort is just one example of how we are strategically implementing flexibility throughout our plants, while continuing to improve quality and productivity."
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| This photo of a pre-production Pacifica shows why industry analysts are so bullish about the model's success with North American customers. It's not only packaged right but its stylish design should woo potential buyers into Chrysler showrooms. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
The Windsor facility also produces the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans, making it the only Chrysler Group plant to manufacture multiple vehicles on a single assembly line. Total Pacifica yearly production is projected at 100,000 vehicles.
Just like the company changed the way North American's think of the automobile in model year 1984 with the launch of their now legendary series of minivans, Chrysler Group expects to attract a new group of "sports tourer" customers. Similar to a minivan the Pacifica offers three rows of flexible seating for up to six passengers as well as impressive cargo space, but it also sports all-wheel drive and the driving dynamics of a well sorted sedan. It derives its 3.5-liter V-6 engine from the company's flagship 300M sports sedan, resulting in 250 horsepower.
Zetsche also spoke about how the Pacifica fits into the Chrysler brand on the whole. "There is more to our game plan than building one great vehicle after another. We are spending more time building great brands as well. Chrysler brand core values are to be expressive, refined, confident and romantic. Pacifica scores on all counts."