Fiat cars are displayed at a retailer in Milan, Italy, in this April 2011 file photo.Fans of Italian cars can pick up a new Fiat at Crown Fiat of Chattanooga starting immediately.
The new dealership, adjacent to the current Crown Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram dealership on Chapman Road, "is now greeting customers for vehicle sales, factory trained service and parts," the company said Monday.
The dealership offers Fiat's European sales model, which provides shoppers detailed customization options for new vehicles and guaranties delivery with 60 days.
"The interest in Fiat from the Chattanooga area community has been outstanding," said Tim Roussell, Crown Fiat general manager. "People are really excited that new Fiats are now available in the U.S. for the first time in decades."
Crown will officially open the dealership in 2012 when the new facility is complete, said spokeswoman Amanda Tossberg. Crown Fiat will also offer the Italian luxury brand Alfa Romeo in 2013.
The dealership is now hiring, and will add 10 employees before Jan. 1.