Manufacturers that can't adapt ...... are doomed

[johnydep]

This article is so true about our local vehicle manufacturers. The public is worried about fuel costs, yet the manufacturers are draging their feet to alleviate the concern.

http://bulletin.ninemsn.com.au/bulle...25703F001C6707

Wealth is wisdom in the car industry, which is why Toyota is the best prepared of Australia’s four manufacturers to cope with rising oil prices..........
Back in October 2004, local executive chairman John Conomos said Australians’ buying patterns would begin to change with a sustained period of high fuel prices. With small cars outselling large ones in Australia through the first half of 2005 for the first time ever, his prediction has quickly come true.
........
Holden appears to be the next best dressed. The Australian outpost of GM is preparing an all-new model for production in mid-2006.........
Ford is in a similar position to Holden. The big difference is that Ford is lumbered with an Australia-only six-cylinder engine for its Falcon and Territory families. That means Ford Australia would have to fund the development of fuel efficiency improvements itself, or turn to Ford’s global engine catalogue for something to suit. Either way would be costly.
.......
Mitsubishi will begin manufacturing a new V6-engined sedan this year in its Adelaide factory. It’s certain to be a decent car, but its Japanese parent has suffered from a long period of poor management and restricted R&D spending. When wealth is wisdom, this could really hurt.