Jan. 30, 2026 | The week’s top stories and Chrysler’s Chris Feuell
About this episode
Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell discusses the surprising resurgence of minivan popularity, particularly among millennials entering parenthood. The episode highlights Chrysler's strategies to regain market share with models like the Pacifica and Grand Caravan, addressing inventory challenges and evolving consumer preferences. Feuell also touches on the brand's shift away from an all-electric focus, emphasizing affordability and new product offerings, including potential crossovers and a return to car models. The conversation provides insights into the future of Chrysler and the minivan segment.
RAV4 output ramps up; GM Oshawa cuts a shift; Century Auto expands. Plus, Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell talks about the resurgence of minivans, the future of the Chrysler brand, affordability, and the brand’s plan to enter the car market.
Toyota RAV4
"There's been a ramp up in Canadian RAV4 output. Toyota is dismissing tariff risks tied to Canadian production and is increasing production of the compact crossover. The automakers top selling North American model now in its sixth generation will be offered exclusively as hybrid."
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular small SUV that many families choose for its space and efficiency. The latest version is only available as a hybrid, which means it uses both gasoline and electric power for better fuel economy.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that has been a top-selling model in North America. The sixth generation of the RAV4 is notable for its exclusive hybrid offering, reflecting the automaker's commitment to hybrid technology.
hybrid
"The automakers top selling North American model now in its sixth generation will be offered exclusively as hybrid. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada President Tim Hollander says the automaker is demonstrating confidence in Canada with a $1.1 billion investment at the factory in Woodstock, Ontario."
A hybrid car uses both a regular engine and an electric motor. This helps save fuel and is better for the environment because it produces fewer emissions than cars that only use gasoline.
A hybrid vehicle combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows for better mileage compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
General Motors
"...Also in manufacturing news, General Motors is sticking to its plan and eliminating the third shift that Oshawa assembly plant..."
General Motors is a big car company that makes many different types of cars and trucks. They own brands like Chevrolet and Cadillac.
General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world, known for producing a wide range of vehicles under various brands, including Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...the shift reduction at the Chevrolet Silverado plant east of Toronto had been expected for more than eight months..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being strong and reliable.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its durability and capability. It's often used for both work and personal purposes, making it a versatile choice for many drivers.
Chrysler Pacifica
"...sales have surged in Canada, obviously led by the Pacifica and the Grand Caravan."
The Chrysler Pacifica is a family-friendly minivan that has lots of room for passengers and their stuff. It's popular because it has cool features and is comfortable for long drives, making it a great choice for families.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a versatile minivan known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. It has gained popularity in markets like Canada due to its practicality and comfort, making it a top choice for families and those needing ample cargo space.
Chrysler Grand Caravan
"...that's where the Grand Caravan is a really attractive option for customers as well as..."
The Chrysler Grand Caravan is a minivan that offers a lot of space and comfort, making it a great choice for families or people who need to transport large items.
The Chrysler Grand Caravan is a popular minivan known for its spacious interior and versatility, making it suitable for families and gig economy workers alike.
minivan
"Earlier this week I saw a video of a minivan with a Hellcat engine installed inside. Obviously these are gear heads and enthusiasts that are tinkering with product that is out there and available."
A minivan is a family-friendly vehicle that has lots of space inside and sliding doors, making it easy to get in and out. They're great for carrying kids and their stuff.
A minivan is a type of vehicle designed primarily for passenger transport, characterized by its spacious interior, sliding side doors, and higher roofline compared to standard cars. They are popular for families due to their practicality and comfort.
Hellcat engine
"Earlier this week I saw a video of a minivan with a Hellcat engine installed inside. Obviously these are gear heads and enthusiasts that are tinkering with product that is out there and available."
The Hellcat engine is a very powerful engine made by Dodge. It's famous for being super fast and strong, often used in their sports cars like the Challenger and Charger.
The Hellcat engine refers to a high-performance supercharged V8 engine produced by Dodge, known for its immense power output, often exceeding 700 horsepower. It's commonly found in models like the Dodge Challenger and Charger Hellcat.
overlanding
"Does any of this mean there's real potential for off-road upscale performance and overlanding? Is that realistic?"
Overlanding is a type of travel where people go to faraway places, usually in rugged vehicles, and often camp along the way. It's about the adventure of getting there, not just the destination.
Overlanding is a form of self-reliant travel to remote destinations where the journey is the primary goal. It often involves off-road vehicles and camping equipment, emphasizing adventure and exploration.
daily driver
"fact that it can be used as an overlanding vehicle or a daily driver, and it's just very appealing to those particular customers..."
A daily driver is a car that people use every day to go to work or run errands. It's usually a practical car that is easy to drive and reliable.
A daily driver is a vehicle that is used regularly for commuting and everyday tasks. It is typically practical, reliable, and comfortable for daily use, rather than being a specialized or performance-oriented car.
electric vehicle (EV)
"There was talk of the airflow concept coming to fruition as an EV. What's the future for the brand now and that product roadmap look like as you and I speak today?"
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a type of car that is powered entirely by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to traditional vehicles.
Chrysler Voyager
"...every price range that they can imagine from the Voyager and Grand Caravan at the value end of the equatio..."
The Chrysler Voyager is a more affordable minivan that still has plenty of room for families and their belongings. It's a good choice if you're looking for a practical vehicle that doesn't cost too much.
The Chrysler Voyager is a budget-friendly minivan that offers essential features and ample space, making it a practical option for families on a tighter budget. It is often compared to the Grand Caravan and is designed to provide value without sacrificing functionality.
Chrysler 200
"...affordability topic because Chrysler lacks what many would consider an affordable entry-level vehicle, but it used to have the Chrysler 200, the..."
The Chrysler 200 is a type of car that Chrysler made from 2010 to 2017. It's a sedan, which means it's a car with four doors and a separate trunk, aimed at families and everyday drivers.
The Chrysler 200 is a mid-size sedan that was produced by Chrysler from 2010 to 2017. It was designed to compete in the family car segment with a focus on comfort and technology features.
Chrysler Sebring
"...the Chrysler 200, the Chrysler Sebring."
The Chrysler Sebring is another car that Chrysler made from 1995 to 2010. It came in different styles, like a four-door sedan and a convertible, and was popular among families.
The Chrysler Sebring was a mid-size car produced by Chrysler from 1995 to 2010. It was available in various body styles, including sedan and convertible, and aimed at the family car market.
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