Only a couple of weeks after we unveiled the Obama Administration's CARS rebate program and the Congress extended its benefits, a stimulus effect is becoming apparent.
Today, for example, Ford announced it:
"is increasing North American production by another 10,000 units to 495,000 units in the third quarter as it builds more fuel-efficient vehicles to meet “Cash for Clunkers” demand. Ford’s planned third quarter production now exceeds year-ago production levels by 18 percent."
As today's Detroit News indicates, workers at Ford's plant in Wayne, Michigan, have been advised their shifts--and their income--will be increasing. Ford workers suggest that production line speed also has been ramped up.
Ford also announced it will be stepping up 4th quarter production as well--to levels 33% higher than last year.
Even better news is that one of two vehicles whose production Ford is accelerating to market is its fuel-efficient Focus, one of the CARS program's top sellers. That's good news for all of us.
Across the country, dealers and drivers alike have been praising the CARS program; seeing evidence of its stimulus effect in automobile manufacturing is one more reason to say that--on this one--government works.
As always, please remember to check the rules for the CARS program at www.cars.gov; you can check fuel-efficiency and carbon footprint information on vehicles at the EPA's www.fuelconomy.gov.
This is a GREAT program and I'm pleased that 1. it's offered, 2. the rules are being enforced to participate.
A sister thought they'd take advantage and get rid of their oldest cars - they didn't make the CARS cut by 3 gallons/mile. She was irritated initially, then laughed - her gas mileage is better than she thought and it's a good reminder to keep the car and tires finely tuned.
Good job! PS her husband is working overtime at a steel mill in Pittsburgh!
Posted by: Sybil | August 13, 2009 at 11:29 AM
Maybe I'm too idealistic, but given the far out future, wouldn't it be more prudent to direct funding to the correct priorities?
For instance, trains. GM and Ford made bombers and tanks in WWII right? Why can't they start building good quality, LIGHTWEIGHT commuter trains, streetcars and even bicycles?
The city I live in can't even keep its roads paved properly and is officially on an 85-year repaving cycle. Oakland, CA.
Thanks for listening.
Posted by: Ken O | August 13, 2009 at 02:43 PM
Secretary LaHood, please release the data on what type of cars are being traded in. I read a story today that AP asked for this info at the end of July and it has not been forthcoming. Please be transparent - so far the administration is doing a pretty good job of it - please don't drop the ball!
Thanks,
Virginia Judd
Posted by: Virginia Judd | August 13, 2009 at 03:19 PM
This is truly great news. With Ford being one of our backbone corporations, if this can be kept up and increased, there will be positive results throughout the economy. Cash For Clunkers is a program that works. And the help for electric powered transportation was another important shot in the economy's arm. Thank you and best wishes, Michael E. Bailey.
Posted by: Michael E. Bailey | August 13, 2009 at 08:50 PM
Its great to hear about this. I am from Nepal and we rarely get the news quickly but when we have got internet facility it is much easier.
Posted by: Best Nepali Forum | August 14, 2009 at 01:20 AM