Leading position in growing and relatively recession-resistant global luxury vehicle industry; Leading position in global commercial vehicle industry; Broad product and geographic diversity in the automotive industry; and Above-average financial flexibility. Ongoing competitive pressures in the U.S. mass light vehicle market challenge Chrysler to maintain its market share without affecting profitability; Need to realize value from the numerous strategic alliances forged in recent years; and Leveraged capital structure, taking account of burdensome benefits obligations. The ratings on Germany-based automaker DaimlerChrysler AG reflect the company's position as a leading producer of passenger cars and commercial vehicles, and its moderate financial policy. DaimlerChrysler has a particularly strong global competitive position in luxury passenger cars sold under the Mercedes-Benz brand. Demand for luxury
