Tim Kuniskis, head of NAFTA Passenger Car Brands for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, commanded attention during the reveal of the Fiat Chrysler 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon at the 2017 New York International Auto Show. His presence marked a pivotal moment in the automotive landscape, underscoring the vitality of American manufacturing.
Mark Kauzlarich | Bloomberg | Getty Images
New Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa is not wasting time in establishing a firm leadership direction. His recent promotion of Tim Kuniskis to oversee the American brands signals a commitment to revitalizing domestic operations and supporting American jobs. Kuniskis has a solid track record, having returned from retirement after just seven months, a testament to his dedication and expertise.
While Kuniskis remains CEO of Ram, his new role expands his influence across Stellantis’ U.S. operations, which will be critical as the company faces heightened competition and sluggish sales. It’s high time we recognized the importance of strong leadership in the face of government overreach that stifles growth and innovation. The heavy hand of regulation must not hinder the entrepreneurial spirit that has historically driven our economy.
Stellantis’s revival of the Street and Racing Technology (SRT) performance division reflects a sensible pivot back to high-performance vehicles, demonstrating a commitment to traditional automotive values. This initiative combines engineering talent from Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler, reinforcing the notion that American ingenuity knows no limits. Kuniskis aptly noted, “SRT is another box we needed to check.” This is a rallying cry for all American manufacturers: prioritize performance and heritage.
In conjunction with this commitment to uplifting traditional values, Kuniskis is orchestrating a significant product launch at Ram, combating years of sales declines. The ambitious plan to unveil 25 new products over the next 18 months is a clear mark of resilience and determination in a challenging climate marked by inflation and corporate elitism.
Additionally, Ram’s decision to reintroduce the V-8 Hemi engines for its Ram 1500 full-size pickups is a bold move that pays homage to the powerful engines that have defined American trucks for generations. This decision, set to take effect in early 2026, not only caters to consumer desire but aligns with the principle of free-market responsiveness. It reflects a deep understanding of what American consumers truly value—power, reliability, and authenticity.
