LaHood: U.S. automakers 'back'

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood came away encouraged by the energy and enthusiasm he found when he visited Detroit's automakers this week.

[Charlie]

Wednesday, October 14, 2009
LaHood: U.S. automakers 'back'
Transportation head drives new models, talks up rail service
Christine Tierney / The Detroit News

Detroit -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood came away encouraged by the energy and enthusiasm he found when he visited Detroit's automakers this week.

LaHood met with executives from all three automakers, including new Chrysler Group LLC CEO Sergio Marchionne, whom he likened to the legendary Lee Iacocca, a former Chrysler chairman.

"After spending a day and a half with the three American automakers, I can tell you they are back. They get it," LaHood told the Detroit Economic Club on Tuesday.

During a tour of Chrysler's facilities Monday, LaHood said he was struck by the enthusiasm of the people he met. "There's a lot of excitement at these companies because there's new leadership."

Marchionne, who is also CEO of Fiat, has kept a low profile in Detroit while crafting a business plan that he will present Nov. 4. But after meeting with Marchionne for 40 minutes Monday, LaHood seemed impressed.

"I think he's the next-generation Lee Iacocca," he said at a news briefing after his speech. "I think what I saw at Chrysler was what people felt when Iacocca was there."

[Charlie]

Lawmakers question GM, Chrysler carhauler moves

Oct 8, 2009 8:21 PM (6 days ago) By KEN THOMAS, AP

Months after the government bailed out General Motors and Chrysler, some lawmakers are questioning tough contract demands by the two auto companies that union officials argue could lead to the replacement of hundreds of union carhaulers with nonunion drivers.

Michigan lawmakers have raised the issue with GM CEO Fritz Henderson and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne in letters during the past week, concerned that the automakers could reduce business with auto transport companies whose drivers are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

"We demand an explanation of your position," wrote Rep. Dale Kildee, D-Mich., in letters to Henderson and Marchionne. "We do not support your plans to abandon your long-term carrier partners."

[Charlie]

http://www.examiner.com/a-2258605~Lawmakers_q...