Mauro Pino, Chrysler Group's Vice President of Vehicle Assembly Operations, and Dan Henneman, Jeep Unit Chairman of UAW Local 12, drove the black 2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition, bound for a customer in Sarasota, Fla., off the final line to the applause of employees.
"Every Jeep Wrangler sold to customers around the world is born in Toledo, Ohio," said Pino. "Since this facility opened eight years ago, the Toledo workforce has built every one of those million vehicles with pride, passion and a focus on quality. We all look forward to building the next million."
Since 1941, Jeep – the original sport-utility vehicle – has represented freedom, authenticity, adventure and passion. From its start, the Jeep brand has continued to stay true to its heritage with a commitment to providing leading off-road capability in all of its vehicles. The enthusiasm held by Jeep team members and owners for the unique lifestyle made possible "only in a Jeep" is supported by vehicles that are known as the "original fun and freedom machines."
"More than 600 UAW-represented workers at the Wrangler assembly plant come to work every day with a dedication unmatched in the industry," said Zach Leroux, Plant Manager – Toledo Assembly Complex, Chrysler Group. "We all understand that we are the keepers of the Jeep legacy and we take that role very seriously. The entire team is humbled to be part of this milestone moment."
Named after America's most demanding off-road trail, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition takes its place as the most capable production vehicle ever. The limited-production vehicle is loaded with hardcore off-road equipment for its enthusiasts including all-new steel winch-capable bumpers with removable end caps, additional ground clearance, new rock rails and BF Goodrich KM2 Off-road Tires.
"The Toledo workforce understands that the Jeep brand's success is directly related to the quality of their work," said Henneman. "They continue to rise to the challenge of meeting the demand for one of the most recognized sport-utility vehicles worldwide and demonstrating their commitment to millions of Jeep enthusiasts."
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler is recognized and respected by top automotive influencers, garnering numerous awards including Specialty Equipment Market Association's Hottest 4x4 SUV; Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road Magazine's 4x4 of the Year; Texas Auto Writers Association's Mid-Size SUV of Texas; Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Award for Compact Utility Vehicle; Kelley Blue Book's Top 10 Best Resale Value Award; Autobytel.com's SUV of the Year; and Four Wheeler's Four Wheeler of the Year Award.
Connected under one roof with the North Plant, where the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee will be built this year, the Toledo Assembly Complex's Supplier Park began production of the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited in 2006. Located on the same site as the former Stickney Plant, the complex includes body and chassis operations, produced in partnership with suppliers Kuka and Mobis, respectively. The Stickney Plant was built in 1942 and nearly two decades later, was converted to produce the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. The facility became the Toledo Assembly Plant when Chrysler Corporation acquired American Motors Corporation (AMC) in August 1987. In the fall of 1997, Toledo North was built for the production of the Jeep Liberty, which launched in April 2001, and later added production of the 2007 Dodge Nitro which launched in August 2006. The last Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro rolled off the line in August 2012 and December 2011, respectively. Toledo North will add 1,105 new jobs on a second shift in the third quarter, bringing total complex employment to more than 3,000.