As US slumps, Chrysler looks abroad; Avenger's debut in Paris showscases Dodge's export push.(DaimlerChrysler AG. Chrysler Group)

Byline: Bradford Wernle

As Chrysler group's sales in the US fall, the brand is looking to Europe for a boost.

The group's muscle brand - Dodge - is leading the push to boost sales outside North America.

Chrysler's international operations have been profitable since 2004, says Thomas Hausch, Chrysler group executive director of international sales and marketing.

The group, which includes the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeeps brands, sold 129,294 units outside North America through August this year - only 7.1 percent of its 1.82 million global total. But with the DaimlerChysler ...