The Detroit Three automakers are seeking a total of $6.8 billion in loans and credit lines from Ottawa and Ontario, saying they need some of that money before the end of the year as they struggle with a worsening economy.

While only Ford Canada officially released its dollar figures today, The Canadian Press has learned that Chrysler Canada asked for $1.6 billion in emergency loans, while General Motors is seeking $2.4 billion in repayable loans.

GM is also seeking $800 million immediately to get through their liquidity problems, a source said.
Ford Canada said it was seeking a $2-billion standby credit line — “to be used only if the current economic crisis worsens” — but isn’t asking for any money up front.