cpd

A Radical Solution for U.S. Automakers

Nationalization would certainly be a radical solution. However, if you're going to go radical, why not go the whole way? At this point, why is there a need for 3 separate U.S. Car manufacturers? I can see how this made sense 30, 40, or 50 years ago, when having 3 U.S. manufacturers was most likely good for competition. However, now with the influx of foreign manufacturers is three U.S. manufacturers really necessay in the interest of competition? If not, what is the reason for 3 manufacturers? I happen to think that the U.S. auto manufacturers are the best in the world at producing trucks (for both personal and commercial use) and other commercial vehicles. Why do we need separate companies making Dodge trucks, Ford Trucks, Chevy trucks, etc?

Why not do something like this: Take all three companies, and smash them together. Create three separate companies:The first company would be responisble for all global truck manufacturing; the second company would be responsible for all international operations (where U.S. manufacturers actually have some traction); the third company would be a R&D company investing in next generation technology. Why does Ford, GM and Chrysler all need to seperately invest in next-gen technology (and the infrastructure that goes along with it)? Put 'em together and let the best employees of the three companies rise to the top of a combined R&D operation - you would probably be surprised how quickly things develop.

This set-up would still keep jobs (because it is not about cars it is about jobs), keep unions generally happy, and free up each newly created company to focus on making one thing better instead of each one trying to be all things to all people.

Note that there is nothing here about domestic cars. Forget it. You've lost the battle to the foreign companies. Move on.