Chrysler is to add a second shift at Belvidere, Illinois to increase production of the Dodge Caliber to meet growing demand for this model which has just been announced in MY 2010 specification with an upgraded interior and a new engine option.

One of the first green shoots since the Fiat takeover is the news that Chrysler is to add a second shift at its Belvidere plant in Illinois to increase production of the Dodge Caliber to meet growing demand for this mid-size car which has just been launched in Model Year 2010 specification with an upgraded interior and a new engine option. The second shift will start on October 5 and employ an addition 850 workers at the plant. It means that an extra 10,000 Calibers will be assembled this year above the previous production target. The Jeep division's Patriot and Compass models which are also produced at Belvedere won't be affected by the production ramp up.

“We are taking this action in response to increasing demand for our most fuel-efficient products,” announced Dodge brand CEO Michael Accavitti. “However, we are cautious about the continued volatility in the industry and will monitor demand in order to respond to market conditions.” The Caliber was one of Chrysler Group's more successful cars during last month's U.S. government "cash-for-clunkers" incentive although no model from any of the carmaker's three brand managed to break into the top-10 most sold. In total this year's production of Chrysler Group vehicles will now be increased by around 50,000 units with a similar story of ramped up car building being announced recently by rival General Motors.

The new Model Year 2010 Caliber features interior improvements and a new Mercedes-Benz Euro V homologated engine with paired to the a six-speed manual transmission which produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 Nm (236 lb/ft), delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine. Forged steel connecting rods, aluminium head and pistons, and fourth-generation direct-injection system provide durability, weight reduction and performance. Passenger refinement also improves as dual balance shafts and sound-deadening materials reduce the diesel engine’s vibration and harshness by 25 percent compared with the previous Dodge Caliber CRD.

The new Dodge Caliber, which will debut at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt this month, also features a more refined interior although it still falls far short of the standards expected on a European car and demonstrates the huge amount of work Fiat will have to do at Chrysler Group. An all-new designed instrument panel features a more integrated look and includes additional cubby space, centre storage bin and larger climate controls. Bright satin silver accents add contrast to Caliber’s interior design, while chromed accents brighten heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) vents, shift bezel, door handles and cluster rings. New door-trim panels and centre console with armrest split-lid feature padded soft-touch materials for improved passenger comfort.