Automakers say they can’t make it alone

Chief executives of the major U.S. automakers are asking for government incentives and wider efforts to reduce oil consumption and carbon emissions. Fuel-economy mandates, slow sales and loss of market share to foreign competitors have the automakers concerned. Massive layoffs and plant closings are forcing major restructuring in order for the companies to remain viable. They said they are willing to do their part, but the responsibility for reducing our country’s dependence on oil should be shared.
Officials from Ford, General Motors and Chrysler called for more development of biofuels such as ethanol. They said that they have made a major commitment into developing flex-fuel cars, but that the limited supply of biofuels is thwarting their efforts.
Posted by Patrice Hein