The Chrysler National Dealer Council, comprised of 17 Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers elected by the dealer organization to represent all dealers’ interests, sent a letter to customers last Tuesday stating support for the company’s organizational overhaul.

The letter states: On behalf of the Chrysler National Dealer Council and the vast majority of our membership, we would like to voice our strong support for the agreement Chrysler LLC has reached to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat to create a vibrant, new car company, and our gratitude for the strong support of the U.S and Canadian governments.

We fully understood that we had to join other major constituent groups -- including Chrysler’s employees, unions, suppliers and lien holders -- in making the sacrifices and concessions required to build the new Chrysler into a viable and highly competitive car company.

Unfortunately, that also means reducing the number of dealerships in the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge network, including some of our own. We regret any hardship our long-time Chrysler Dealer colleagues and friends face as we go through this process. While this is a painful and difficult step, Chrysler and its dealer body will assist with the redistribution of products from the dealers not moving forward with the new Company.

The move to a strong dealer body of 2,392 dealers strengthens growth to invest in facilities to make for a more delightful owner experience and improved customer service. Unfortunately because the industry has declined nearly 40 percent in the past year, there simply is not enough business to support more dealers.

Auto manufacturers and their dealer networks ultimately share a common fate. Our success or failure is always mutual. We need a healthy, profitable Chrysler. Chrysler needs a healthy, profitable dealer network.

Our customers can rest assured that a leaner, stronger Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealer network is emerging to better meet their needs. We continue to provide all warranty and service contract repairs for our customers. We have exciting vehicles to sell with the highest level of quality in Chrysler’s long history. And we offer extremely competitive prices and attractive financial incentives. Chrysler will communicate to all owners any dealership location changes for sales and service.

We remain profoundly grateful for the support of the millions of owners of Chrysler vehicles. We take enormous pride in the contributions we make to our communities, local economies and this great industry. We are honored by the trust you have placed with us and look forward to continuing to serve you for many years to come.