[Army MP Retired]

Since, at least the verbiage indicates, this is a “loan” it's not really a subsidy in a strict sense. In as much as other than the big-three in this industry are already weighing in demanding a piece of the pie - most noteworthy thus far being the electric auto industry - there's a chance that conflicts of interest and unfair business practices will at least be mitigated to some extent. As far a minefield.... well, has federal government involvement in a capitalistic venture ever succeeded?

[Riflema]

Yes, but the loan, since it comes from Uncle must be at preferential terms to those available in the market - else, why not go to the bank as usual?

Agreed, anytime the Govt gets involved in the market, they tend to emulate an epileptic in a minefield.

[depressed in 06]

It is a subsidy, but, Detroit is not going to build vehicles anyone wants to buy. So, from a trade point of view it is a non sequitur. It is a gift to the unions from Pelosi-Frank. Merry Christmas.