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Production has begun in Toluca on the new
Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible. The PT Cruiser era began at
Toluca Assembly in February 2000 with the introduction of the
segment-busting vehicle.
“We
are pleased with the smooth production launch of the Chrysler PT
Cruiser Convertible,” said Tom LaSorda, executive vice
president-manufacturing, Chrysler Group. “The employees’
dedication to customer satisfaction and the application of
proven manufacturing processes and technologies have created a
vehicle with the highest levels of quality and head-turning
style that is part of the PT Cruiser heritage.”
A
cross-functional launch team for the convertible was able to
maintain production of the Chrysler PT Cruiser sedan while
managing the plant changeover required for the launch. The
rolling changeover, which generally involves the addition of new
assembly equipment and tooling, quality verification of the
equipment and training for new manufacturing processes, was
implemented in between the first and second shifts, as well as
on weekends. Both the customer and the company benefit from this
approach because it enables a faster ramp-up of production and
reduces program expenses usually caused by down time.
“The
entire team at the plant contributed to the successful
operations we’ve seen at Toluca Assembly,” said Roberto
Gutiérrez, vice president-Mexico Manufacturing Operations,
Chrysler Group. “From the ongoing production of PT Cruiser to
the rolling changeover, we achieved positive gains in
productivity and quality, without missing a day of production.”
Quality systems
Through the application of team-based operating principles and
dedication to continuous improvement, the Toluca Assembly plant
has earned a reputation for producing high-quality vehicles with
world-class efficiency. Numerous in-plant quality systems,
several of which are interconnected, support this effort.
Every area of the plant’s operations uses a
consistent, quality verification system. This system confirms
that the highest level of quality is met at each work zone
before a vehicle moves to the...
...Continued
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