Fiat plans Polish expansion

Photo: Glowimages

According to the Puls Biznesu journal, Fiat wants to invest 2.36 billion zloty (564.6 million euro) in upgrading the Polish factory, with new production lines among other novelties.

3000 people are already employed at Fiat's factory in Tychy, and 420 further employees are set to be hired, according to a company report obtained by the paper.

96 percent of the cars produced in Tychy will be exported, including to North America.

Sales of Puntos, traditionally one of the companies biggest sellers, have been falling, hence the need for a replacement. In Europe alone, sales of the model dropped by 22 percent in 2013.

At present, the Fiat Punto is a 3-door vehicle, whereas its successor will have 5 doors.

The Fiat Punto is currently made in the Italian city of Melfi. It is understood that the Melfi factory will now handle production of the company's Jeep Renegade, while Tychy takes up the reins with the Punto. (nh)