Auto Makers Adjust Plans for Temporary Plant Shutdowns

By Guest Column —— Bio and Archives December 18, 2008

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U.S. auto makers continue to fight for survival as they await a possible financial-aid package from the government and Chrysler moves to idle its plants.

Chrysler announced it will idle all manufacturing operations from the end of the day December 19 until Jan. 19 2009. Chrysler had previously said it would idle its plants during the holidays. In a statement, Chrysler said the move was in response to the “continued lack of consumer credit for the American car buyer.” Chrysler said its dealers told the company it has “many willing buyers” for Chrysler Jeep and Dodge vehicles but can’t close deals because of the lack of financing. Chrysler's UAW employees will receive 95% of their hourly wages and benefits during the shutdown. Non-plant workers won't receive compensation during the period...more