Published on
November 24, 2009 in
Manufacturer Update, Polls and Predictions.
Tags: Alfa, Alfa Romeo, automotive, Automotive Industry, CAFE, Chrysler, Fiat, Industry, UAW, update.
Earlier this year, Fiat Group purchased 20% of Chrysler Group, leaving 55% to the UAW (United Auto Workers) and the rest to the US and Canadian Governments. To American drivers who remember when Fiats and Alfa Romeos were last sold in the United States, this can conjure up bad memories of rotting floorboards, rusty fenders, and finicky engines. I think the new Chrysler/Fiat merger means good things to those of us stateside, and I’ll tell you why.
Continue reading ‘How do you say Chrysler in Italian?’
Published on
October 28, 2009 in
General and Industry Update.
Tags: automotive, cars, Chrysler, Fiat, Ford, GM, Hummer, Industry, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, update.
Since the early 1900s, vehicle manufacturers have been buying and selling each other, trying to grow their combined business. Some of these ploys work (GM buying Cadillac in 1909) while others fizzle out (GM buying Hummer in 1998). In today’s uncertain automotive times, the Detroit 3 are trying to streamline their companies, to cut operating costs and slough off under performing brands. In order to answer the question of whose product you’re really buying when you buy a car, truck or SUV in America, I will go into a little detail as to which companies are on the block, which have already been sold, and which are dying (or already deceased).
Continue reading ‘Industry Update: Company Ownership’
Published on
October 19, 2009 in
General and Predictions.
Tags: automotive, Automotive Industry, Chrysler, Fiat, Ford, GM, Industry, Introduction, road reality, Welcome.
Welcome to Road Reality, and thanks for stopping by. This is an automotive blog that caters to the average American driver. You’ll find a simple review structure, with easy-to-understand facts and figures. The reviews here are intended for people who have to commute regularly, but who also might also get out on the weekend for a spirited drive or a road trip, which contrasts with the existing automotive publications and blogs, which are mostly geared towards drivers who don’t drive on the same roads as you or I. You’ll see reviews here for cars which you can find at your local dealership, not just the latest Ferrari or limited production Lamborghini. Besides reviewing cars, this blog hopes to educate the average driver as to what’s going on in the American Automotive Industry. There will also be car previews, tips (buying, detailing, etc.) and automotive industry predictions, but first, some background on me, after the break.
Continue reading ‘Ladies and Gentlemen, Start your engines!’
