Dodge Dakota Officially Axed
In not-so-shocking news, Chrysler has officially pulled the plug on the Dodge Dakota compact pickup’s production. The expected move will result in 39 temporary workers losing their jobs and could lead to additional layoffs at Chrysler’s Warren Truck Plant where the Ram 1500 pickup is also produced. The union currently believes that layoffs could reach 150 or more at the plant with the Dakota’s production now discontinued.
Chrysler spokeswoman Jodi Tinson did state that in the event of layoffs, many of those employees will be redeployed to other Chrysler facilities – perhaps some good news from all of this for the workers. It had already been announced back in May that Chrysler plans to replace the Dakota with a car-based “lifestyle” vehicle for the Ram brand, but no decision has been made as to where production will be done for that particular vehicle.
In 2000, Chrysler had sold more than 177,000 Dakotas, but when compared to last year’s sales of 13,000, it’s no surprise that the Dakota’s plug has officially been pulled.
[Source: The Detroit News]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Im sorry to hear about this. Im in the market for a new dakota. my 02 has 260000 miles and never had any motor trouble what so ever. Did replace the rear end twice tho. All in all pretty solid truck. Was hopin to see a new body style cuz the current one is one of the main reason for the decline in sales. That and the not so mid sized price for a mid size truck. Hope that dodge brings it back soon like the darango only better looking and slightly more affordable.
The Dakota is the right size - they just needed to increase the mileage with a better engine choice - perhaps a diesel option. I have a "Bed-Slide" in mine so I can haul full loads - guess I'll just keep the 2001 that I have. rls