Posted on 02/12/2008 4:11:26 PM PST by mombyprofession
New York -- If General Motors didn't make a vehicle in North America, or didn't have a union-backed work force in the U.S., it might be one of Wall Street's golden children. GM's international divisions continue to keep the automaker afloat, as its U.S. sales remain stagnant and its profitability continues to be overburdened by the health care and pension costs of an aging workforce, analysts said.
"GM's results show that, despite progress and buoyant markets outside the U.S., falling volumes and competitive pressures in the U.S. will continue to pressure General Motors North America and hence, overall GM operational results," said Lehman Brothers automotive analyst Brian Johnson in a note.
Including special items, GM said it lost $722 million, or $1.28 a share, in the fourth quarter of 2007 compared to a profit of $950 million, or $1.68 a share, a year ago.
(Excerpt) Read more at foxbusiness.com ...
I=I’m
I rented a GMC Envoy for my sister’s wedding a few weeks ago, and it has quite effectively reduced my disdain for GM products from “profound and unmitigated” to “not so bad”. Then I got a look at the sticker and nearly gave birth to a 350 lb canary!
I’ll stick with my current rides for now. A bus, a REAL 4X4, a 4 door sedan, and a small 250 cc commuter scooter. I wanted to buy a really cool 1967 fire truck, but I had to resist, as the house needs more attention than I need a new toy.
What kind of 250 scooter do you have? I have been thinking of getting one to putt to work.
*See "Motor Trend" for very positive reviews
Not the best shot, but gives you a good idea. While it's NOT a real rocket ship, it has PLENTY for the ride to work.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.