Mindmeld,
We have talked on this queue in the past about fuel mileage standards and how the Bush administration enacted those infamous tax breaks on the largest SUV's (now being changed, surprise, surprise). We also talked about how the American auto makers are geared to give the American consumer 'what they want', mainly big trucks and SUV's, and the way they are structured, they don't make money on the car biz, but on trucks and financing. I guess the result is what you saw yesterday with GM. Admittedly, the American firms are at a disadvantage in the health care arena, but I can't for the life of me figure out why their top management has not focused on higher quality fuel efficient cars like Camry/Accord. The last time this occurred back in the 70's the Japanese got their feet in the door and we know the market share numbers since....
Best regards,
John
PS - We talk about spreading 'democracy' abroad, but the hypocrisy of it is that we are sending more dollars than ever to oil nations that still amputate limbs for certain offenses, in addition to propping up corrupt African dictators.... I was scanning some radio stations not long ago and up popped Limbaugh. Caught him bragging about his new turbo SUV, and he went into a monologue about the free market and how we should all have no problem feeling guilty about buying one. What can I say... |
