Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda sent an e-mail to Chrysler employees attempting to counteract speculation on a possible sale of the auto maker and ease fears about the automaker's future, according to CNBC's Phil LeBeau.
Parent DaimlerChrysler is looking at all options for its money-losing U.S. business--which could include a possible sale--as part of a restructuring process that will include 13,000 job cuts, 16% of the workforce, by 2009.
In the e-mail, obtained by LeBeau, LaSorda told employees that information on voluntary separation and early retirement programs will be communicated in the next few days.
Media speculation about a sale of Chrysler needs to be kept "in perspective," LaSorda said, nothing that management has a duty to consider all options, but "can't comment on developments because of strict legal requirements."
He also touted the company's upcoming cars.
"We went through a restructuring in 2001, but our situation today is much different," LaSorda said in a statement. "For one thing, we're leaner. Another important difference is that we have a full product pipeline with at least 20 new and 13 refreshed vehicles on their way from 2007 to 2009."