In a stringer piece for the Detroit News , Rex Roy makes the observation that automatic transmissions are finally beginning to catch up to stick shifts in fuel economy. While we say "it's about damn time," considering automatics make up more than 90% of the US new vehicle market, we simultaneously...

Filed under: Chrysler, LLC. , Ford , GM After years of incremental improvement in customer satisfaction, a study from the University of Michigan shows that overall, Detroit automakers have declined versus their Japanese and German rivals. The study, which polls customers with six-month-old to three-year...

An industry group we've never heard of called "Experian Automotive" is reporting this morning nearly half of hybrid vehicle owners will buy a vehicle of the same brand when they buy another one, making them some of the most loyal customers in the industry. Of course, they may not be buying...

Our fearless leader will be on CNBC this afternoon at 2:20 pm (EST) talking about the GM-Ford collaboration and, hopefully, adding more fuel to the QOTD fire . He'll also be talking about tie-ups and whether or not Rick Wagoner should stay on as CEO. No word on if he'll bring up the fact that...

News of Ford and General Motors discussions concerning engine collaboration as a way to cut R&D costs has some wondering what the limits of partnership might be. Could a tie-up on engines lay the groundwork for a great partnership? Most importantly: Should they go further — should they merge...

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing , Ford , GM In a move that will help both ailing automakers, General Motors and Ford are holding discussions about sharing engine and powertrain technologies. Although neither company will officially acknowledge the liaisons, the meetings have been going on for more...

The Detroit News is reporting this morning that Ford and GM are exploring a possible collaboration to develop new engines and other powertrain technologies according to sources at both companies. Both of the big automakers from Detroit are looking to find ways to reduce research-and-development costs...

Filed under: Government/Legal , Chrysler, LLC. , Ford , GM After nearly eight years of getting little or no attention from the White House, it seems as though Detroit's automakers will be a major focus the 2008 Election. With the economy looking worse by the day, lawmakers in Washington have been...

We're constantly harping on American companies for not bringing over their European cars, but with news that Ford is doing just that , the question has new immediacy. The British Motor Show is a good place to start. The show will witness the debut of the Ford Focus RS , which speaks to a rally heritage...

Filed under: Government/Legal , Chrysler, LLC. , Ford , GM In the wake of GM's Tuesday press conference detailing its plans to have enough cash on hand through 2009, politicians have been eager to voice their thoughts regarding the possibility of a government bailout. President Bush gave the possibility...