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Comeback

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As you may have heard, the CEOs of the big three automakers (Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp.) flew to D.C. in their private jets to ask for $25 billion of taxpayers' money. Senate and House leaders temporarily denied the loan until the automakers do some serious restructuring. The CEOs have been harpooned by the media and programs such as Saturday Night Live for their transportation decisions. Since the meeting in D.C. many media outlets have suggested a carpool for the automakers second trip.

Since it doesn't look like the automakers will benefit from an economic bailout any time some, I thought I would add to the suggestions with some practical ideas of my own. Maybe the automakers can save a little green and save face with the American public.

Turn auto factories into streetcar and bus factories
The movement towards public transportation on America has not been affected by lowering gas prices. America needs more public transportation options. Right now many of our buses, light rail cars, and the like are manufactured in Europe but with a little trade regulation and some effort from Detroit, the automakers could take control and real in some good business.

Become forward thinking
The automakers got bit by the failing economy because they did not plan ahead. As gas prices rose and the world became environmentally conscience the big three decided to focus on SUVs while Asian and European automakers began developing hybrids and other fuel-efficient cars. The result has been an under-demand for and over-supply of SUVs. Detroit needs to stop pumping out gas-guzzlers and invest in designs of the future.

It may be too late for American manufactures to compete with Toyota and Honda on hybrids but Chrysler, Ford, and GM need to be the first to develop the next line of cars. Investing in consumer research and green design may make all the difference in three to four years.

Restructure
I know CEOs never want to lose power and pay but, when faced with bankruptcy, the leaders of the big three need to put their tail behind their legs and look to their own employees for help. Richard Wagoner and the other CEOs need to accept pay cuts and look for the big wigs in their companies to do the same. Then the CEOs need to promote from within and get some workers off the factory floors and into manager hats. Factory workers are also American consumers and the key demographic for much of the auto industry. Their knowledge and ideas should not be overlooked.

Car manufacturing is a huge business for America and the economy's health depends on the automaker's success. Hopefully a revolution is in the works.

Learn more about this author, J M Kellam.
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