New FIAT Doblò Cargo launched to media before hitting UK showrooms

• New FIAT Doblò Cargo launched to media before hitting UK showrooms
• In addition to its new exterior design, there are important technical enhancements for the 2015 model
• New FIAT Doblò also debuts ultra-efficient new “EcoJet” derivative
• The FIAT Doblò is the first vehicle to be badged “FIAT Professional”

The 2015 FIAT Doblò has been launched to the UK media at a special event staged in the Midlands. The new fourth-generation FIAT Doblò features a fresh exterior design, improved engine performance for key models and a new "EcoJet" version engineered to lower fuel consumption and reduce running costs even further. 

The new Doblò is also the first vehicle to wear the full “FIAT Professional” logo on its tailgate, a signature which will appear on all new FIAT Professional commercial vehicles from now on.

With 1.4 million sales and numerous award accolades, including International Van of the Year in 2006 and 2011, the new FIAT Doblò retains many of the class-leading traits that have defined its critical and commercial success, such as its excellent dynamics, comfort and best-in-class load and volume capacities. 

But for 2015 these attributes are further supplemented with significant improvements for the cornerstone 1.3-litre and 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engines, which benefit from enhanced responsiveness –  more torque from lower revs – and improved efficiency of up to 12 percent. 

In the case of the 1.3-litre MultiJet II engine, for example, this responsiveness has increased by approximately 40 percent compared to the model it replaces, resulting in greater flexibility for more relaxed and efficient driving as well as livelier performance when circumstances demand.

The 90hp 1.3 MultiJet II and 105hp 1.6 MultiJet II engines are also available in new “EcoJet” versions which offer a further reduction in fuel consumption and emissions levels thanks to the use of Start&Stop; low rolling-resistance tyres; low-viscosity oil; an ‘intelligent’ alternator; a variable-displacement oil pump and a new aerodynamic pack. All this makes it possible to achieve a fuel economy figure of up to 64 MPG (4.4 L/100km) and CO₂ emissions of just 115 g/km.

The technical improvements are only part of the story, of course. The 2015 FIAT Doblò Cargo also benefits from a complete redesign in line with the new, muscular design language first seen on the new FIAT Ducato. 

The sculpted bonnet and distinctive new headlamps combine with the bold new grille to add an air of sophistication and elegance to the 2015 FIAT Doblò’s design. The sleek new front bumper, lower air intakes and fog light shrouds adopt a more car-like refinement while also hinting at the new Doblò’s solidity and robustness, and at the rear new light clusters, with their sleeker shape and more sophisticated graphics, round out the Doblò’s style revisions for 2015.

Inside, Doblò retains its current interior, which is highly regarded amongst UK customers for its ease-of-use; ample storage space; high comfort and specification levels and its ability to shrug off the rigours of daily use with ease. Responding to customer feedback, the 2015 Doblò benefits from a lighter and more fluid clutch action coupled with a shorter and more positive gear change, while additional soundproofing has resulted in an average reduction of 3dB in the cabin.

In terms of safety, the Doblò’s safety credentials are enhanced by a full suite of standard driver aids including ESC (Electronic Stability Control), ABS brakes with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), ASR (Anti Slip Regulation), HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist) and Hill-Holder systems that help the driver during hill starts. 

A passenger airbag and lateral airbags, as well as TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) are part of theDoblò’s optional safety arsenal. Underpinning all of this, of course, is the FIAT Doblo’s class-leading chassis, the highlight of which is its sophisticated bi-link rear suspension which combines a smooth and quiet ride with sharp yet predictable handling, even when laden – an ideal set-up to prevent drivers getting into the trouble in the first place.

Naturally, the hugely versatile load compartment remains central to the vehicle’s appeal. With a payload of up to one tonne, the Doblò’s load bay is defined by a flat floor with minimal wheel arch intrusions and practical squared-off shape – again, thanks to the bi-link rear suspension! The load area, which can be specified up to 5m³, is accessed via rear doors which helpfully open to 180-degrees with hard-wearing and ergonomic handles (the rear door, for example, can be opened and fully extended using just your “pinkie” finger – perfect when holding heavy boxes).

New options for the 2015 Doblò include a new Gateway module for vehicle telematics, a power folding door mirror function, DAB preparation for aftermarket audio systems and, available shortly after launch, the Traction+ system which has already proved itself in the Fiorino and Ducato. Traction+ enables drivers to make sure-footed progress even on low-grip surfaces, such as snow or mud, without increasing the weight of the vehicle, thereby avoiding the increased running costs associated with full 4x4 systems.

Available to order in the UK now, the new FIAT Doblò Cargo range comprises four body-styles; two roof height options and two wheelbase lengths, with five engines, ranging from 90 to 135hp, and four trim levels available: Standard, EcoJet, SX and Tecnico.

Standard features on all FIAT Doblò models include adjustable-level headlamps, a full-size spare wheel, full bulkhead, overhead storage, electric windows, central locking, full wheel trims, side rubbing strips, full-height twin panelled rear doors; offside sliding side door, (plus a nearside sliding side door on Maxi and XL models) and a speed limiter (upon request). The EcoJet version adds smart alternator management, variable displacement oil pump, Start & Stop, low-friction oil, and low-rolling resistance tyres and a new aerodynamic pack.

The SX model adds bulkhead soundproofing and load area PVC lining, as well as front fog lamps; electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors with body-coloured covers; remote control central locking; height adjustable drivers’ seat with lumbar support; in-cushion storage in the passenger seat and an upgraded stereo with MP3 compatibility.

The range-topping Tecnico model includes air conditioning; rear parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, Start & Stop; remote steering wheel controls and a dealer-fitted satellite navigation system.

Dynamo joins forces with FIAT and the 500 X to tour the country.

• FIAT has partnered with famous magician Dynamo to star in the build up to the launch of the FIAT 500X in the UK in April
• The artist and the new crossover feature in an extraordinary 360-degree VR test-drive experience using special 3D headsets
• The tour visits six UK city-centre locations in February and March, starting today in London’s Covent Garden
• The VR experience is a collaboration between FIAT, Dynamo and Framestore, the British Oscar-winning SFX studio
• More information on the "The Power of X” initiative is available at the dedicated site:thepowerofXtour.co.uk

The "The Power of X” tour, featuring the FIAT 500X and world-famous magician Dynamo, kicks off in the UK. Having already visited 68 European cities, the UK leg of the tour brings the FIAT 500X and Dynamo’s immersive VR experience to London’s Covent Garden on February 13 and 14, before moving on to Cardiff (Queen Street, February 15), Birmingham (Victoria Square, February 21), Manchester (Piccadilly Gardens, February 22) and Newcastle (Grainger Square, February 28), before making its final stop in Glasgow (Silverburn, March 1).

Participants in the #ThePowerOfX tour are taken on a double journey to discover the new FIAT 500X: not only are they able to get up close and personal with the new crossover they can also take part in an immersive digital experience thanks to a special Virtual Reality headset, which reproduces a 360-degree environment in ultra-high resolution 3D. Users will be part of the first ever virtual reality magic experience, produced in collaboration with FIAT, Dynamo and Framestore - the two-time Oscar®-winning, British special effects studio.

Everyone is welcome to drop in and explore the “The Power of X” tour events but by registering online at thepowerofxtour.co.uk visitors will be given priority access at their chosen location, allowing them to skip the queues. Once there, they will be given a wristband with a unique chip which will not only allow them to gain access to the facilities, it will also enable the cameras installed at the event to recognise each individual and compile a unique and personalised video of their experience.

At the same time, dealers throughout the UK will host special preview weekends where people can enjoy the same VR test drive experience with Dynamo and see the FIAT 500X in the metal for the first time. The beginning of the tour also coincides with the official opening of the FIAT 500X order books, enabling the 82,000 “hand raisers” who have so far expressed an interest in the new crossover to create their perfect FIAT 500X using the online configurator and place their order for one of the most hotly-anticipated new cars of the year.

Visitors to both FIAT dealerships and city-centre tour locations will also be able to recreate Dynamo’s incredible virtual experience at home using a cardboard toolkit that will be given as a gift to all participants. Comprising a piece of carefully folded cardboard containing a pair of lenses and used in conjunction with a designated smartphone app, the headset becomes a virtual reality headset in its own right, allowing people to experience “The Power of X” in their own homes.

The arrival of “The Power of X” tour in the UK was marked by an exclusive event at the Copperbox Arena in London where Dynamo performed a one-off, never-to-be repeated illusion, making a FIAT 500X appear on stage in front of more than 1,000 astonished guests. 

Video of the illusion is available to view here:www.youtube.com/FiatUK

The FIAT 500X range at launch kicks off with the 140hp 1.4-litre MultiAir Popstar, priced from £17,595 OTR, when the first right hand-drive models arrive in showrooms nationwide on April 17. An entry-level 1.6 Pop joins the range shortly thereafter priced from £14,595 OTR. For more information visit 500x.FIAT500.com or search for #ThePowerOfX

JANUARY USA SALES - FCA GROUP - Every brand showed significant growth for January

• 58th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each post sales gains in January compared with same month a year ago
• Jeep brand records best ever January sales; Jeep Cherokee sales up 44 percent
• Dodge Challenger sales up 87 percent; best January sales ever
• Chrysler 200 turns in best January sales ever
• 10 FCA US vehicles set sales records in January

FCA US LLC today reported U.S. sales of 145,007 units, a 14 percent increase compared with sales in January 2014 (127,183 units), and the group’s best January sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in January compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep brand’s 23 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any FCA US brand and its best January sales ever. The group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 58-consecutive months.

“We kicked off 2015 with a 14 percent increase in sales and extended our year-over-year sales streak to 58-consecutive months,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “In spite of some tough 2015 comparisons, we remain confident in our ability to post year-over-year sales increases on the back of strong retail demand for our products.”

Ten FCA US vehicles set records in the month of January, including four of the five Jeep brand vehicles. The Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Patriot, and Jeep Compass each recorded their best ever sales in the month of January. Likewise, the Chrysler 200, Dodge Dart, Dodge Challenger, Ram ProMaster, Ram Cargo Van and Fiat 500L each logged their best ever January sales.

FCA US finished the month of January with a 101-day supply of inventory (563,575 units). U.S. industry sales figures for January are internally projected at an estimated 17.0 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

Jeep Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 23 percent, the brand’s best sales performance ever in the month of January and its 16th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep brand has set a sales record in each month dating back to November 2013. The Jeep Cherokee, Wrangler, Patriot and Compass each logged their best ever sales in the month of January. Sales of the Cherokee were up 44 percent, the largest percentage year-over-year sales gain of any Jeep brand model in January. The Cherokee Trailhawk – the most capable mid-size sport utility vehicle – was named “Four Wheeler of the Year” by Four Wheeler magazine in January, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel was named “2015 Green SUV of the Year” by the Green Car Journal. The Grand Cherokee had its best January sales since 2004.

Ram Truck Brand

Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 14 percent in January; its 57th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. It was the pickup truck’s best January sales since 1999. Ram Light Duty pickup sales increased 17 percent in January while Ram Heavy Duty pickups were up 1 percent. Ram Truck brand sales, which include the Ram ProMaster, Ram ProMaster City, and Ram Cargo Van, were up 21 percent, the brand’s best January sales since 2004. The ProMaster and the Cargo Van each recorded their best ever sales in the month of January. Sales of the ProMaster City, the newest addition to the Ram Truck brand product lineup, began in Ram Truck dealerships in January.

The Ram Truck brand unveiled the new 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in January. The Rebel brings a one-of-a-kind off-road design to the full-size truck segment.  The brand also announced that it will add a new, more fuel-efficient model to its half-ton truck lineup – the 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE – which will deliver the highest fuel economy among all full-size truck competitors.

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales increased 11 percent, the brand’s best January sales since 2008. The year-over-year increase was driven by the all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 sedan. Sales of the 200 were up 30 percent, the mid-size sedan’s best ever sales in the month of January and its seventh-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Sales of the new 2015 Chrysler 300 sedan began in January as the first shipments from the Brampton (Ontario) Assembly Plant in Canada began reaching U.S. dealerships. The new 300 sedan’s iconic and unmistakable exterior proportions are now crafted with even more sculptural and expressive style for 2015, with a bolder “face of Chrysler” front grille, signature LED lighting, unique finishes and new wheel designs. Sales of the 300 were up 1 percent in January, its best January sales in two years.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales were up 1 percent in January, compared with the same month a year ago. Two Dodge brand vehicles set sales records to start the year. Sales of the Challenger were up 87 percent, the muscle car’s best ever sales in the month of January and the largest percentage sales gain of any Dodge brand model in the month. Likewise, the Dart logged its best ever January sales with a 61 percent year-over-year sales gain. The Dodge Charger recorded its best January sales since 2008 with its 35 percent increase. The new 2015 Charger received a Best Resale Value Award in the Full-Size Car category in January from Kelley Blue Book.

FIAT Brand

FIAT brand sales, which include the Fiat 500 and 500L, were up 1 percent in January, the brand’s best ever sales in the month of January. Sales of the Fiat 500L were up 19 percent in January compared with the same month a year ago. It was the 500L’s best January sales since the model was launched in the U.S. in June 2013. The FIAT brand is coming off of a record year in 2014. The FIAT brand’s full-year sales were up 7 percent in 2014, compared with sales in 2013. It was the FIAT brand’s best annual sales since the brand was re-introduced in the U.S. in 2011. 

FCA US LLC Sales Summary January 2015
	Month Sales		Vol %	Sales CYTD		Vol %
Model	Curr Yr	Pr Yr	Change	Curr Yr	Pr Yr	Change
Alfa 4C	97	0	New	97	0	New
ALFA BRAND	97	0	New	97	0	New
500	2,386	2,493	-4%	2,386	2,493	-4%
500L	869	729	19%	869	729	19%
FIAT BRAND	3,255	3,222	1%	3,255	3,222	1%
200	14,157	10,912	30%	14,157	10,912	30%
300	3,192	3,145	1%	3,192	3,145	1%
Town & Country	6,044	7,056	-14%	6,044	7,056	-14%
CHRYSLER BRAND	23,393	21,113	11%	23,393	21,113	11%
Compass	4,317	4,068	6%	4,317	4,068	6%
Patriot	7,563	5,577	36%	7,563	5,577	36%
Wrangler	11,683	9,553	22%	11,683	9,553	22%
Cherokee	15,154	10,505	44%	15,154	10,505	44%
Grand Cherokee	12,806	12,207	5%	12,806	12,207	5%
JEEP BRAND	51,523	41,910	23%	51,523	41,910	23%
Dart	8,136	5,051	61%	8,136	5,051	61%
Avenger	242	4,795	-95%	242	4,795	-95%
Charger	7,025	5,200	35%	7,025	5,200	35%
Challenger	4,592	2,458	87%	4,592	2,458	87%
Viper	61	47	30%	61	47	30%
Journey	7,041	5,936	19%	7,041	5,936	19%
Caravan	4,665	7,290	-36%	4,665	7,290	-36%
Durango	3,585	4,128	-13%	3,585	4,128	-13%
DODGE  BRAND	35,347	34,905	1%	35,347	34,905	1%
Ram P/U	28,618	25,071	14%	28,618	25,071	14%
Cargo Van	1,101	355	210%	1,101	355	210%
ProMaster Van	1,580	607	160%	1,580	607	160%
ProMaster City	93	0	New	93	0	New
RAM BRAND	31,392	26,033	21%	31,392	26,033	21%
TOTAL FCA US LLC	145,007	127,183	14%	145,007	127,183	14%
TOTAL CAR	39,888	34,101	17%	39,888	34,101	17%
TOTAL TRUCK	105,119	93,082	13%	105,119	93,082	13%