Jeep Grand Cherokee - It may be more civilized, but the new Jeep is tested to be tougher than ever

摘要

Consider the challenges Phil Jansen faced as chief engineer of the fourth-generation 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, He had to manage product development as Jeep's parent company, the Chrysler Group, went through three different owners in four years; he had to integrate more on-highway technology and convenience features into a vehicle brand traditionally marketed to the discriminating and demanding off-road consumer; and he had to develop and certify a vehicle that will be sold globally but manufactured at a single location. On top of this he had to ensure the platform is compatible with future corporate products built on the same assembly line, and improve on Chrysler's struggling reputation for initial quality and long-term durability In addition of course, the project had to come in under budget and on time, but most important, produce a sales and media sensation promoted as Chrysler's first all-new vehicle introduction following the highly publicized turmoil of bankruptcy, government bailout, dealer closings, and corporate reorganization.