Cairo, Egypt, Nov 13, 2008  -  Chrysler LLC and the Arab American Vehicles Company (AAV) today officially announced the manufacturing launch of the Jeep J8 multipurpose vehicle at AAV's Cairo assembly plant.

"We're pleased to recognize this important milestone and the role of both Chrysler and the Arab Organization for Industrialization," said Hussein Mustafa Mohamed, Chairman, Arab American Vehicles Co. "The launch of the incredibly versatile Jeep J8 and the anticipated demand for its export is an economically significant event for Egypt."

The Jeep J8 marks the Jeep brand's return to commercial and military vehicle production with a thoroughly modern vehicle designed to meet the needs of both non-government organizations and government agencies.

Originally unveiled at the 2007 Defence Systems & Equipment International military trade show in London, the Jeep J8 is available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle. It will be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right- or left-hand drive. The two-door version, for example, can be configured as a personnel carrier with seating for up to eight.

"The Jeep J8 combines legendary capabilities and dependability that makes the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited famous, with unmatched cargo capacity and an exceptional towing rating," said Thomas Hausch, Chrysler LLC Vice President - Europe, Middle East and Africa. "The Jeep J8 is also an exceptional value, priced below other vehicles designed for humanitarian and military work.

"Jeep vehicles debuted in 1941 as the workhorse of the military," added Hausch. "The Jeep J8 brings us back full circle. With a 67-year reputation for off-road capability and utility in both civilian and military applications, Jeep is the benchmark."