Autoweek. About 14,000 people have called, sent e-mail messages or written to the Chrysler group to express interest in the 2005 diesel-powered Jeep Liberty. That’s nearly three times Jeep’s anticipated 2005 production of 5,000 U.S. units, says Jeff Bell, Chrysler group vice president of Chrysler brand and Jeep marketing.

The diesel Liberty will be highlighted in advertising scheduled to begin in the spring, Bell says. The diesel will go on sale in 45 states in early 2005. The vehicle cannot be sold in California and Northeast states with similar emission regulations.

A 2.8-liter common-rail diesel engine coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission will be optional on 2005 4x4 Liberty Sport and Limited models. VM Motori of Italy supplies the engine. The Chrysler group has said it can increase diesel production based on demand.

Glad to see that last bit about the ability to increase production. With the diesel Liberty, Chrysler has a great marketing opportunity to establish the leadership position for diesel in the US. Furthermore, the Chrysler group could take a lesson from their overseas cousins in the Mercedes Group and combine the diesel Liberty with biodiesel demonstrations—those should go over well in soybean territory here. But Chrysler has to stop thinking of the diesel platforms (or the hybrid platforms) as low-volume products for a quirky few.