Marchionne Taps Fiat Talent Pool for Chrysler Powertrain Chief

Chrysler Group LLC appoints Paolo E. Ferrero to lead its powertrain organization, the auto maker says.

Ferrero, who will report directly to Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne, will “focus on technology sharing” with Fiat Auto SpA’s powertrain organization, Chrysler says in a statement.

Marchionne’s goal is to bring Chrysler’s powertrain operations “under a single point of responsibility,” the auto maker adds.

Ferrero, who had been vice president-product engineering at Fiat, will provide indirect oversight of powertrain manufacturing, testing, quality and international operations, while also ensuring integration and alignment between Chrysler’s vehicle engineering organization and supporting operations.

Bob Lee, appointed head of Chrysler powertrain in June, remains with the company. How Ferrero’s appointment will affect Lee’s role is undetermined.

The move comes on the heels of last week’s unveiling at the Frankfurt auto show of new engines featuring Fiat’s fuel-saving MultiAir technology.

MultiAir is an electrohydraulic valve-management system that controls air intake using the inlet valves, independent of the throttle.

Earlier this month, Chrysler acquired the Global Engine Mfg. Alliance plant in Dundee, MI, by buying out partners Mitsubishi Motors Corp. and Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd.

The plant produces 4-cyl. engines for Chrysler vehicles ranging from the Chrysler Sebring midsize car to the Jeep Patriot cross/utility vehicle.