Chrysler currently builds the raider for Mitsubishi as a rebadged Dodge Dakota. The two automakers have a contract that expires after the 2010 model year, which Mitsubishi has declined to renew. Chrysler will continue to produce the Raider through mid-2010. Chrysler has a similar contract with Nissan-the next-gen Nissan Titan will be built by the Detroit automaker.
Mitsubishi sales declined 24.6 percent last year. President Osamu Masuko is pushing to have the company introduce smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles to the U.S. market in response to the shake-up that occurred last summer when gas prices soared. He also is seeking to replace the Galant mid-sized sedan with a smaller car.
Source: Automotive News