LA AUTO SHOW: GM Goes Dark But Ford Will Power Ahead With Multiple Introductions

Ford has been very quite, but they seem very well positioned with some good ideas like the Ford Mondeo, Fiesta and Diesel transit Connect Vans. Especially compelling is the step in the right direction with the manual Paddle-shifter transmissions.
Not many of the Autos have yet considered the drive trains as a way to boost efficiency.

I do however think Ford missed the boat on building the Flex and Lincoln Mkt with Diesel couple to paddle-shifters. They could have really came to market ahead of the curve compared with many of the other Auto companies.

Fortunately, Ford plans to build the new F-150 with a small Diesel Powerplant. SMART MOVE! As the F-150 has been a popular gem for as long as anyone can remember.

What's a Mercury?

My grandfather ownd a Mercury once... and an Oldsmobile... and a Nash. The Nash was cool.

I read about GM bailing last night. That is a grim sign to cut your press conference. Chrysler not doing one is also telling. Why tell the world about stuff you might not get to build.

That Ford is continuing is not a surprise as they have a lot invested in the product both in PR as well as development. The Mustang is a big launch. The Fusion/Milan/MKZ triplets are also a hingepin.

Also telling is GM doing all this PR on the VOLT. A car they are still working on and is not nearly ready for market. So if I understand the marketing, they are saying "We have this cool new car that will be ready in 2010 - so don't buy anything yet..." and that seems be exactly what is happening.

I still don't get it...it can't be THAT expensive to use an European car and modify it to become legal in the US streets. At least, it shouldn't be any more costly than creating a whole new car that people like.