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Ahem...In that case John, why is it that the Big Three can't seem to "make much money" at buildin' cars HERE these days then?



Well, Dwight, ONE of the MANY reasons is that European and Asian companies can set up shop here with new employees and not have to pay entitlements (pensions, med benefits, etc.)to retirees until 15 or so years down the road. American car companies (as well as other 'legacy' industries) are having to bear not only payroll and manufacturing expenses, they have to accomodate those workers who have retired and are living well beyond the age predicted by mortality tables when they first hired on.

Yet ANOTHER reason that American car companies aren't doing well here in the USA is because the fickle and spoiled American public perceives American company cars as asthetically inferior and lacking cache' when compared to Asian and European imports. Their egos won't allow them to be seen driving an American car when the Jones have a Lexus in their garage.

Out of respect for you, I will not mention the UAW and their role in the dire straits that American car companies have found themselves in.

Finally, ever hear of the Hummer?

JB "Long live the Duck Force!"