OEM Headlines: Honda to invest big in two U.S. plants

Donald Trump
      • Forbes says the Trump administration’s move to roll back existing federal fuel efficiency targets of 54.5 miles per gallon for model year 2022-2025 cars and light trucks, would be a terrible deal for American drivers.  The move is endorsed by U.S. auto dealers and auto manufacturers. It would cost the economy $800 billion dollars and add six billion tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere by 2050. Read More
      • Lamborghini is open to an all-electric addition to its line-up of luxury sports cars.  Evidence (according to CNBC) that German parent Volkswagen’s interest in producing zero-emission vehicles could extend to the very top end of its brands.  In the meantime, the 54-year-old Italian car firm will launch its new SUV, URUS towards the end of 2017. Read More
      • Reuters reports Honda has invested nearly $150 million in two U.S. plants for making a 10-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel-drive vehicles.  The investment includes $100 million for a new assembly line and production modifications in Tallapoosa, Georgia and $49 million in Russells point, Ohio. The new automatic transmission will go first in the 2018 Honda Odyssey. Read More
      • Detroit bureau reports…with sales of the Hyundai Sonata falling 1.7% last year and 31% in the first two months of this year, the South Korean automotive manufacturer hopes its rollout of a mid-cycle styling update lights a fire under consumers.  The new iteration of the sonata features a sportier look with a curvy hood and a bigger grille. Read More