It’s the $25 billion question looming over congress- one that could affect one of the countries biggest and most important industries.Congressmen, executives, and lobbyists are all scratching their heads, trying to figure out if the automotive industry is worth saving.Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors, also known as the “big three,” struggling to make ends meet in Detroit, want the banking industry to offer a bailout package to help tide the ailing auto industry over.But the major issue with congress extending a lifeline to the industry is gauging whether or not the industry makes the changes necessary to survive in the market. U.S automakers were behind in almost every trend. They dropped the ball on fuel-efficient vehicles, design principles, and the basic of all customer needs- quality.What was once regarded as an American gold standard of auto making now belongs to European and Asian car companies. In order to merit a bailout, the industry must show it’s dedicated to ensuring that the American consumer will receive a premium product.Of course, the task will prove to be even more difficult now that the Euro-Asian domination of the auto industry is in full effect. A $25 billion bailout would help the big three make payroll, but it’s not guaranteed to increase sales or the public image of the American auto industry. For once, this isn’t about the money. It’s about the performance of our domestic automakers.
Akeem Anderson for editorial the board.