Deweyp

Chrysler Travesty Hearings Continue

This day was written in the wind over 20 years ago and as many predicted it has happened. As to F having superior products in the pipeline while GM and C have not, I question who would have that true knowledge, as these are very closely guarded secrets, unless already announced. What may be the probable outcome of all of this is C and GM, unencumbered of the debt that drags any development of future products down, brings forth the great products they have had in the pipeline, while F stumbles trying to finance their pipeline products while laden with draconian debt that has not been forgiven. Those who truly understand the auto industry know that product plans are made several years (3-5) in advance and this economy downturn is only 9 months old, although it really began 20 months ago. It is purely supposition to say one company has better products "in the pipeline" than another, especially when one looks at the superior products that have been produced by C and GM (Dodge Mini Van, Cadillac CTS,
Chevy Malibu, Chevy Volt, Jeep, Dodge Challenger and above all the 2010 Camaro). These are acknowledged product winners. The morass C & GM currently find themselves in is purely financial and is in no way a result of the product they have brought to market. To be sure F has shown many successful products and I am sure they have more in the pipeline, but let's not confuse economic problems with product issues and, we should not assume that F has solved all their economic problems as well. There is a reason Ford's major supplier (Visteon) filed chapter 11 today and it is an economic issue just as it was for GM's major supplier Delphi. The American auto industry is truly the best in the world and once these issues are resolved and the economy improves, they will be back on top, no matter what the Asian guys tell you.

Obama to Automakers: Ultimatums with Teeth

That was supposed to read "chapter 11"

Obama to Automakers: Ultimatums with Teeth

The whole point of Obama's speech and the position he has adopted was indeed to scare the bond holders and the union into taking action to relieve the debt load and change the union's position on work rules and benefits that have given the Asian transplants an advantage. I really don't think there was an intention to force GM into chapter 1