I can kind of understand why the big one has given up a bit at this point to make smaller diesel cars in the U.S. #1 our emission standards are rediculous because of California...if it doesn't pass there, they have issues seeling them anywhere. #2 The government just threw a huge wrench in the mix when they mandated the DPF. Eventually that mandate will fly to Tier III diesels as well, outstanding, considering DPF's seem to be the root of all evil! Imagine the engineers when they finished the 6.4, then out of no-where "Hey add an extra fuel line, and this filter, and program the computer to do this and that" Greeeaaaat, originially they were getting almost 30 MPG I read, now because of the DPF, people are lucky to see 14!?!?
America loves our big vehicles, heck, I'm just as bad, I don't like driving down low, and feel unsafe, especially when the number of trucks towards cars is greatly outnumbered. I don't care how many airbags you have, if something weighing 6000 lb. or more hits you, and you weigh 3000 lb. there are going to be issues!
Well I think this talk of the Big 3 should be happening. GM is owned by the Government, and Chrystler has been Private/European for the last few years. The last remaining Private American company is
and I a proud to stand behind them for this. Lets hope they figure things out. I read last months Forbes, and it had an article on Fords new CEO (from Boeing) and he is fixing a lot of stuff! I am happy to hear it. They are sinking, yes, but still above water for now. I love my Ford Products (all together in my family there are 5) and I will never buy anything thats not American. I also feel badly towards Ford because they are now competing with the government (GM) and they are giving chash-back, tax breaks, maybe soon free cars I don't know, but still I say "Keep it up Ford...and Keep Workin'!" They will figure it out (sooner hopefully rather than later) that they need efficiency and Diesel is the way to go.
~Phil