http://www.thestreet.com/story/10451550/1/honda-quits-formula-one-racing.html
The article itself isn't that interesting but I came across it this morning. I can't help but think about the fact that Toyota is being proactive in its response to flagging auto sales, while our automakers seem to still be scurrying around asking for money.
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4 comments:
Its Honda, not Toyota quitting F1. Toyota finished 5th in the constructors championship last year and I doubt they will quit. Honda finished 9th and had a pretty terrible year. In any case, I have two different views on this.
As a logical decision, I think its very smart and reflects the different mind-set of the Japanese companies vs US run companies. Similar to this story about Toyota vs GM's approach to employees.
As a big F1 fan...I'm quite disappointed. The Super Aguri-Honda team already withdrew part way through the season last year. If they keep this up its only going to be a couple cars running around the track out there!
You would think I could get the names straight on my own post.
As opinionated as I am this is a topic I am conflicted by, and I am not certain why. I am extremely skeptical of US auto mfg executives. The two articles mentioned are great examples. I have never purchased a new "US" vehicle. I have strong recollection of the early to mid 90's in which US auto mfg's invested and marketed heavily in large SUV's and trucks. The reason was that the margin in such were higher than standard passenger cars. This was on the heels of the first Gulf war.
This same time period Toyota must have been doing real research and development on the vehicles like the prius. The Accord and the Camry have taken over as the most popular vehicles in their class.
Now at this time of economic uncertainity the "US" auto co's are caught with their pants down and attempting to react way too late.
This all being said one would think I would reflexively state ther should be no such bail out for said companies. Yet for whatever reason I don't simply respond as such. I don't know if it is the unionized labor aspect to it.
I do know that I can not see the bailout occurring and allowing the status quo to exist. But I am not certain what the answer is.
No worries about the name of the company, I know what you meant :-)
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