The Big Three automakers, reinvented, eye consumers worldwide
GM, Ford, and Chrysler have reinvented themselves in the years since the Great Recession almost spelled the demise of two of the Big Three automakers. Their ‘transformative’ evolution puts them in a position to compete globally.
Graphic: Julie Fallon/The Christian Science Monitor
Photo: Clockwise from top: Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Dart dashboard, Ford Mustang, Jeep Wrangler. (AP and PRNewsFoto)
US traffic deaths for all age groups continue to plunge at a record-shattering pace. An estimated 32,310 people died in traffic accidents in 2011, marking a 1.7 percent year-over-year decline and a seven-year downward trend, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The number of road deaths is the lowest since record keeping began in 1949, well before the creation of the American highway system.
Dodge Dart fans saw production of their beloved compact cease in 1976. The return of the Dodge Dart at the Detroit Auto Show signals a change of priorities for the US auto industry as it seeks to grab more market share.
(Chart:Newscom and John Kehe, Monitor staff)
Experts forecast 6 million to 12 million plug-in vehicles on US roads by 2020, which would make up 3-4% of total cars on the road.
If you bought an electric car today, which would you pick?
READ: Post oil: Boom in electric car sales fuel gas-free dreams
The last Ford Crown Victoria rolled off the assembly line in Canada yesterday. The car was simple, fast, and safe. But in an era of high gas prices, the fuel-inefficient Ford Crown Victoria is giving way to other models.
In honor of its demise, we posted an action shot.
(Source: csmonitor.com)
Welcome to Phoenix. If this is your final destination and you left your vehicle in our lots, be prepared to find it covered in dust. Have a great day!
While we vote for the airport to offer complimentary car wash vouchers to help ease the shock of seeing your Audi in this condition, we’re actually banking on a lot of very unhappy travelers. According to local media reports on Tuesday, visibility was reduced to zero in some areas of Phoenix as wind gust blew near 40 miles per hour. REUTERS/Joshua Lott
(Source: csmonitor.com)
