CHRYSLER Jeep in the UK has been given a vote of confidence by company chiefs as the financially troubled American manufacturer bids to break even next year. Following the unveiling by DaimlerChrysler company bosses of a long-awaited three-year recovery plan, the UK operation has been hailed as a 'benchmark of excellence'.

And part of plan will see the ambitions of Chrysler Jeep UK boss Simon Elliott realised as more right-hand drive vehicles are launched. Chrysler Group chairman and chief executive officer Dieter Zetsche told Fleet NewsNet: 'We intend that our new products - if they are not pick-ups for the US market - to provide for right-hand drive.'

Last year UK sales were the second highest on record at 16,500 - 22.2% up year-on-year - and hopes are high that this year sales will reach 19,000 units. The recovery plan - the closure of five American factories and the axing of 26,000 jobs was announced in January - is expected to see the return to profitability of Chrysler Jeep in one year