Autos Articles - DailyFinance

Parts Shortage Forces Ford to Idle 3,000 Workers

Toyota Keeps Slim Lead Over GM Despite Recall Woes

Toyota managed to hold onto the title of world's No. 1 automaker last year, despite numerous safety recalls that took a toll on its sales. Toyota sold 8.42 million vehicles worldwide in 2010, enough to barely edge out resurgent General Motors, which rang up sales of 8.39 million.

No Longer the 'Big Three,' but They've Stopped Shrinking

With U.S. automotive dominance waning, a new moniker has emerged: the "Detroit Three." Still, don't count out Ford, GM or Chrysler. Their post-recession future looks strong, thanks to some agonizing restructuring. Now, they can be profitable selling fewer cars.

2010: The Year of Automobile Recalls

Automakers recalled more vehicles last year than in any of the last six years. And while Toyota Motors accounted for much of the growth, with problems including unintended acceleration and glitchy brakes, many other car manufacturers also saw their recalls increase.

Chrysler Rolls Out Plans for a Hybrid of a Different Kind

Chrysler has finally decided to jump on the hybrid bandwagon, announcing Wednesday that it is working with the EPA to develop a hydraulic hybrid powertrain for its vehicles. The system, which stores energy derived from vehicle braking as pressure, could improve fuel economy by 30% to 35%.

Ford to Overhaul Kansas City Plant and Preserve 3,750 Jobs

Ford will spend $400 million to upgrade its Kansas City, Mo., plant after production of the current Ford Escape compact SUV moves to another facility. It's the fourth North American plant that Ford has overhauled or plans to as it seeks to reinvigorate its vehicle lineup.

Chrysler Finds It Can Be Profitable Selling Fewer Cars

The smallest of the Detroit Three, Chrysler has made substantial strides in turning around its business, including lowering the number of vehicles it needs to sell to make a profit. The automaker had pegged 1.65 million as its operating break-even point, but has just lowered this to about 1.5 million vehicles.

United Auto Workers Push to Unionize Foreign-Owned U.S. Auto Factories

The United Auto Workers union has been bleeding members, with fewer than 400,000 at the end of 2009. With a purportedly more collaborative attitude, the group plans to unionize foreign auto manufacturers with factories in the U.S.

Ford Details Its Lincoln Reboot, Chrysler Talks Trucks

At the North American International Auto Show in Detroit Tuesday, Ford and Chrysler both announced plans to introduce a host of new models. Ford will add seven vehicles with "truly unique Lincoln DNA" to its luxury line, while Chrysler has its eyes on new pickups, a revived Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and possibly, a 'mini-minivan.'

Ford and Toyota Debut New Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

New models from Ford and Toyota drew the hottest interest Monday as the North American International Auto Show opened in Detroit: Each announced several electric and hybrid vehicles, including an electric Focus and a plug-in Prius.

Fiat Boosts Stake in Chrysler to 25% After Hitting Milestone

Italian automaker Fiat increased its stake has in Chrysler Group to 25% after the U.S. automaker met a key goal by starting engine production at a plant in Dundee, Mich., the company said Monday during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Volkswagen Unveils New U.S.-Made Passat Midsize Sedan

Taking the name of VW's existing midsize entry, the new Passat is more than just a fresh design. The vehicle brings with it a commitment by the German automaker to resume building cars in the U.S. for the first time in decades, at its new $1 billion in Tennessee.

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