Well after you pick yourself up off of the floor from laughing, it may not actually sound like such a silly proposition after all.
Chrysler could provide Toyota with immediate access to desperately needed assembly plants, and provide an established foothold into both the consumer and commercial truck markets, as well as future lock in the minivan market. Chrysler also provides several unique high performance models that could establish Toyota in the all important niche markets that they currently lack.
Purchasing Chrysler would also mean an instant American image for Toyota, that may help curb growing concern that its success was at the cost of the US Auto industry. Another factor to consider that Toyota would establish a direct pipeline into rural America where the domestics still dominate and loyalty is highest.
While we all can agree it would be an uphill battle for a while, we wonder what fruits a long term Toyota/Chrysler alliance would yield.
Imagine a Dodge V10 RAM with Toyota quality, or even Jeep 4x4 to compliment the Sequoia. Maybe a cool Hybrid SRT Nitro? If anyone has ever had the resources and expertise to turn Chrysler around it would be Toyota. With their advanced production and supply prowess as well the financial resources that many small nations envy, Toyota could possibly save an American icon.
What do you think?