The manufacturer of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles saw a 9% year-over-year decline in U.S. sales in the first quarter, Q1 as weak market circumstances continue to affect deliveries.
Compared to the same period last year, Stellantis sold 368,327 cars in the first three months of the year. But, demand for Jeep SUVs, Ram pickup trucks, and other vehicles decreased as a result of rising interest rates, inflation, and recessionary fears among some consumers. Only Chrysler and Dodge, the two brands advertising the final model year of gas-powered vehicles in their lineup, experienced growth.
Sales of Jeep fell 20% year-over year with the Wrangler falling 17% and the Grand Cherokee down 27%. They were the top two best-selling PHEVs in the US, according to the company, citing S&P Global and highlighting the up to $7,500 EV tax credit that is available until April 17.
Its 4xe plug-in hybrid versions represented 38% and 13% of their sales, respectively, making them the number one In the U.S., despite Stellantis currently not offering any all-electric cars for sale.
According to a statement from Jeff Kommor, the U.S. head of sales, “As we continue to navigate the market conditions transpiring across the automotive industry, together with our dealer network, we are making the necessary adjustments to meet our customer’s expectations.”
After the automaker eliminated the third shift at Warren Truck Assembly Plant in October, due to a lack of parts. In order to resolve issues with quality and to increase production of the longer wheelbase models, sales of both the Grand Wagoneer and Wagoneer SUVs fell by 59%.
Meanwhile, Chrysler’s sales increased 10% in comparison to the Q1 of 2022, with the Pacifica minivan and 300 car increasing by 10% and 9%, respectively. Sales of the minivan were accounted for by 12% for the Pacifica Hybrid.
Nevertheless, General Motors revealed that Q1 sales increased by 17.6% year over year to 603,208. On Tuesday, Ford will also release its March sales data.
