On one hand, I want absolutely nothing to do with Chinese cars or EV’s. On the other hand, the article raised some interesting points.
American auto manufacturers are always stuck in the past. They mentioned hose thickness because they’ve always done it that way.
In the 70’s, the Big 3 lost business to Japan, Datsun, Honda, Toyota etc. They were forced to get better, which they did for many years. Unfortunately, they haven’t kept up.
Did you notice that the car is a sedan/hatchback? How many sedans and hatchback does Ford and GM make? I think the answer will be zero by next year.
As far as buying a new car, I would ever even consider it. But, if someone, an American company preferably would make a simple, basic ICE car without all the luxuries, at a really fair market price, I’d really consider it. Sure, I like power windows and a great sound system. I can care less about multiple or even any air bags and a hotshot emissions system. Strip it down to the basics and let the market decide.
I would like the same thing for a pick-up truck. A bare bones truck, nothing fancy, but affordable and reliable. I do not need power mirrors, front/rear cameras, etc. Just 4 wheel drive V-8, cruise control, radio, heater & air conditioner.
Bet a lot of them would sell, especially on the used market for younger drivers who don’t have a lot of money.
The modern Corvette may be the single greatest mass produced vehicle in US history.
The country is also the leader in pick up trucks and SUVs.
It took the Japanese decades to come up with an attractive vehicle plus a fuel embargo to proceed past the foot in the door stage.