Very well put although I would keep Saturn over Hummer.
Sadly though, GM (and the other domestics) have a PERCEPTION problem where many will not even consider their wares. I had some pretty incredible reactions from friends/acquaintances when they first heard that I bought a Cadillac; when they actually looked at or rode in the car, they were quite impressed although some are still convinced my car will self destruct at any time or be a horrible "lemon".
The good news is that GM recognizes the depth of perception issue, Bob Lutz and Fritz Henderson have both alluded to it recently.
Lets hope GM can stay afloat long enough to reap the benefits of their current good products and start making money again.
The very idea of entering into a BK "bankruptcy protection in as little as two weeks, using $5 billion to $7 billion in federal financing" is UNHEARD OF in the business world. Only a company the size of GM would even be considered in something like this... and I will whole-heartedly say that I am relieved.
#1 Have Government announce that they are BACKING warranties, start making cost cuts including dealer shut-downs thru old partner GMAC not funding Floor Plans or even customer financing pushing them outta business thru simple death, not court. Also announce sale of 3 smallest Dealer networked Brands, all of which could be supplanted by another brand due to lack of real sales and loyalty.. or true differentiation.
The HUMMER brand being the most unique, judging by the possible styling language of the upcoming GMCs is essentially being merged. Saab will still have to rely on GM for tech, thus now GM will be selling them tech and not having to
give it to them.
#2 Come out with GM TOTAL CONFIDENCE which covers U with a 5yr/100K mile Gov backed warranty (no different that the Banks having FDIC), TRADE IN Value Protection, Onstar, and 9Months/$500 a month Payment Insurance if U lose your job...
GOOD GOD ALMIGHTY... that's STRONG!!!
Makes U wanna be in Car Sales right now Doesn't it?
#3 File for BK wiping out all but approx. 25% of your total debt using assets designated to be BAD ASSETS left to be sold off in the
"OLD General Motors"
#4 Emerge from BK 2 weeks later before 80% of the population even gets wind of U filing in the first place... with automatic low interest loans waiting for U of $5-7 Billion to get U thru essentially July-Dec (KEEP IN MIND that GM hasn't required new cash from the Feds since January because the cost cutting has led them to be able to operate on their own cash-flow)
#5 upon emerging from the BK.. the new GM.. now known as
GLOBAL MOTORS
(helps save them from having to replace those "Chicklets" on the bottom of their vehicles already produced)
, gives a middle finger to the UAW, the Banks/Hedge Funds, and Rivals because now... they are able to move "freely" without so much effin FAT holding them back...
GOD BLESS GM as they are they ARE the symbol of what was great in American manufacturing. They killed our Steel Industry... they Killed out Electronics Industry.. Please don't let the liberals, kill our Heavy Industry
Can I get an AMEN!!! :worship:
A Tundra is rated as the second WORST P/U on the market behind the TITAN. The engine was exploding FORGODSAKE, and even Toyota admitted that it was a lackluster effort."
