WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Candice Miller (MI-10) today with the Michigan Congressional Delegation held a meeting with Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne to discuss the ongoing restructuring of the company and the future of the Sterling Heights Assembly plant (SHAP). After the meeting, Representative Candice Miller released the following statement:

“I am glad that the Michigan delegation today had an opportunity to discuss the future of Chrysler with CEO Sergio Marchionne. Our entire delegation is united in our effort to assist Chrysler to ensure that this iconic American company comes through the painful restructuring stronger than ever.

“Of great importance to me is the future of the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in my district which had been slated for closure during bankruptcy proceedings. Due to the fact that SHAP produces the Chrysler Sebring, which is one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in Chrysler’s lineup, and SHAP is one of the most productive plants in the company, I asked Mr. Marchionne about both the future of SHAP and the Sebring.

“Mr. Marchionne indicated that the Sebring would be a big part of Chrysler’s return to profitability and will require the operation of SHAP into 2011. He also indicated at that point Chrysler will evaluate where future products would be produced, but that he expected future versions of the Sebring would be built in the United States.

“My colleagues and I committed to Chrysler that we would work with them to make the best case possible that future versions of the Sebring should be built in Sterling Heights as this decision making process goes forward.

“The employees at the SHAP clearly are among some of the best in the company and have proven that they can build the highest quality vehicles in an incredibly efficient manner. I look forward to working with them as we work to convince Chrysler management to keep this work in Sterling Heights.”

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