I can't bring myself to drive Japanese
Matrix / Vibe are basically the same vehicle, but is it North American or Japanese?
That vehicle is being replaced by the Pontiac Vibe (which will be sold in Canada) and will be built in the same GM/Toyota-owned New United Motor Manufacturing (NUMMI) assembly plant in Fremont, California. The Toyota Matrix will be built in Toyota's own plant in Cambridge, Ontario
Ford didn't need a bailout either
Just a credit lifeline if needed in the future.
Ford is "in a different place and much further along" than the other two Detroit automakers, Mullaly said. Although it is seeking a $9 billion line of credit from the government, Ford is not part of the $17.4 billion bailout for GM and Chrysler, which comes with the requirement that the two companies show how they can reduce costs and debt, Still, "from ongoing conversations we're having with all the stakeholders and the U.S. government, we will not be disadvantaged," Mullaly said.
Although Mullaly declined to provide details of talks with debt holders, Ford did say Friday that the United Auto Workers union agreed to end the jobs bank program at Ford, just as it has at the other two Detroit automakers. The Ford program covers about 1,500 workers. The two parties are working out implementation details.
Meanwhile, Ford will draw on its available credit lines, adding $10.1 billion to its cash reserves on Feb. 3. One of the key things separating Ford from competitors is that it secured credit two years ago, before the global financial collapse.
I wouldn't chalk it up to a grand sense of foresight, just lucky timing in negotiating credit lines.
I think there will be a lingering perception in peoples minds regarding the solvency of North American Auto companies, and the worry that they may not be there in the future, will influence their decisions to buy foreign. Those connected to the industry should work to show the value of supporting your local economy.
