NYT: Downturn Will Test Obama’s Vision for an Energy-Efficient Auto Industry

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/21/business/21obama.html

By MICHELINE MAYNARD
Published: December 20, 2008

DETROIT — President-elect Barack Obama leveled a stern warning at General Motors and Chrysler last week after the federal government promised them billions to help them survive: “The auto companies must not squander this chance to reform bad management practices.”

Once he takes office, the bailout will give him a tool to prod the industry to change, but it will also test his resolve as he pushes it in new directions.

Mr. Obama, after all, has been thinking out loud about the future of the American automobile industry for years, well before his presidential campaign began. He co-sponsored two bills in 2006, during his second year as a United States senator — one to raise fuel economy standards, and the other to encourage the use of alternative fuels.

His writings and speeches on the auto industry suggest a keen interest in finding ways, including new technology, to improve the fuel efficiency of the cars and trucks that Americans drive.

But with Detroit in a fragile financial state, it is unclear how many compromises he will have to make in pursuing his agenda for the auto industry, as he juggles other priorities like providing a stimulus program for the broader economy. The United Automobile Workers union, which backed Mr. Obama, will want a say in the changes he envisions for the automakers.

And the car companies, which have long lead times to develop products, will need sales of big trucks and sport utility vehicles, which may pick up again as gas prices fall, to bring in much-needed revenue.

FULL story at link.

[firedupdem]

1. Good Read...thanks! n/t

[Rosa Luxemburg]

2. we need to shift to electric cars

[amborin]

4. only if their battery power doesn't depend on coal plants or other polluters

[Rosa Luxemburg]

6. they should have figured this out 10 years ago

[Clio the Leo]

3. Screw the pony .....

.... I want a hybrid!!!!

A chicken in every pot? How about a hybrid in every garage! :)

[amborin]

5. let's hope he doesn't betray the UAW and demand further concessions

if he does betray the UAW, he's going to have one tough fight in 2012

unions were some of his biggest and most powerful supporters, crucial states were won through union efforts