Shake up aside, Chrysler to split up Dodge

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Chrysler Group said the departure of two top executives would not derail an announcement of long-range plans expected in November.

The five-year business plan may even be released earlier to quiet distrust that may have arisen from the departures of Peter Fong and Mike Accavitti, managers of the Chrysler and Dodge brands, both of whom were said to have left the company for personal reasons, The Detroit News reported Tuesday.

Along with the news of the departing executives, Chrysler said Monday it would divide Dodge into separate car and Ram truck divisions.

Chrysler said Fred Diaz Jr. of the Denver Business Center would oversee U.S. sales and Dodge Ram trucks. Dodge cars, including minivans, crossovers and sports utility vehicles, would be handled by head designer Ralph Gilles, the company said.