^ Because the Daimler side of the partnership didn't really care what happened to the US company. Daimler wanted a way to jump on the SUV/ truck explosion of the late 90's without having to take years and years to develop their own vehicles. Daimler threw some used parts at Chrysler to make them feel like they got something out of the deal. As soon as Durangos, Dakotas, Rams, Grand Cherokees, and Libertys stopped selling Daimler pulled the plug.