A Bright Outlook For Toledo's Jeep Plant

A number of possible outcomes may occur as a result of the sale of Chrysler automotive group to the private equity firm known as Cerberus. Toledo and its workers should come out ahead for one fundamental reason: The Jeep brand is Chrysler's most valuable asset.

While the uncertainty of the future has some workers concerned, the $7.4 billion deal for just over 80 percent of Chrysler should turn out for the best.

Jeep is a thriving auto maker whose brand is among the most recognizable on the planet. There is speculation - probably spurning the purchase - that Jeep, out from under the Chrysler corporate smothering, will gain from being able to focus even more intently on its mission.

Cerberus executives, including its chairman, Toledo native John Snow, told The Blade that "they are serious about developing their automotive units for the long term, and there is evidence to support that claim: The company already owns several parts makers and just last year acquired 51 percent of GMAC, General Motors' financing unit."

In any event, we should all look forward to watching Toledo Jeep grow before our very eyes!