Detroit Three Will Drive to D.C. in Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

At least we know they have a good PR plan … now. Whether or not Detroit automakers have a plan to streamline, innovate and save their industry, however, remains to be seen.

After what might be kindly described as a PR disaster, when the CEOs of GM, Ford and Chrysler flew to the nation’s capital on three separate private jets to ask Congress for a $25 billion loan, Congress said, “Show us a plan.”

When the automakers return to D.C., they will do so in a caravan of fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel American vehicles to highlight their efforts at reform and repair their battered reputations. In addition to CEOs Rick Wagoner, Alan Mulally and Bob Nardelli, the cavalcade will include more than 100 industry leaders, including representatives of the UAW, supplier executives and car dealers. The traveling band of American automakers will make stops along the way from Detroit to D.C. to hold rallies and news conferences in an effort to drum up populist support for saving an industry that employs millions of people.

The CEOs are supposed to present Congress with their plan by Dec. 2 and appear for testimony Dec. 8, so expect this twisted automotive version of “The Wizard of Oz” to get its start the weekend of Friday, Dec. 5.

Detroit’s New Plan: Drive Point to Congress (Detroit Free Press)