Production of the Dodge Hornet supermini may pass to Chinese manufacturer, Chery. Chrysler confirmed the partnership with Chery in February, and claims that it will give it a route into the hugely profitable global supermini and city car markets.The only certainty within the agreement, Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda claimed, was that the Dodge Hornet concept would not be produced in China. Now speculation from within the company is placing the Hornet as the only model confirmed for production there.It is rumoured that Chrysler will produce two models with Chery, both of which will sell across Europe and Northern America badged as Chryslers. The second of these models is unknown, but will almost certainly be a smaller, cheaper model than the Hornet.Allowing Chery to produce these key models is intended to be the simple route to a profitable future for Chrysler – a much less certain future since Daimler announced it might sell its unprofitable American arm. Whether it goes east or not, we reckon the Hornet should do well provided the muscular looks make production. As an answer to all Chrysler's problems it's a less convincing argument.
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