Possible Third Shift Could be added to DaimlerChrysler's Brampton, Ontario Plant

As previously mentioned, Chrysler Group is playing catch-up to Ford and General Motors, which have been deeply embedded in the European market for decades, Ford with its

Chrysler is planning to launch the Dodge brand in Europe by 2006, with several vehicles that are volume products. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

blue oval badged brand, and luxury divisions Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo and Aston Martin originating in European/Scandinavian countries. GM owns the Adam Opel nameplate, very strong in Europe, plus its Saab division is relatively popular. The domestic automaker has made strong inroads with Cadillac and Chevrolet, the latter best known for its Corvette sports car.

Chrysler, on the other hand, only started selling cars outside of North America in 1996. Zetsche reiterated that his auto group would bolster its European presence with the Dodge brand in 2006.

"The actual launch of the Dodge brand in Europe will occur in principle in two years, with several vehicles that are volume products," he stated.

Clearly Chrysler Group is on a mission to increase its global presence.