Monday, June 08, 2009

Check Out the New Wheels

Let's hear it for Michigan Congresscritters that support the home team.



I asked the Schauer people for a picture with the President, but a picture with a brand-new Saturn is pretty cool too.

Today Congressman Mark Schauer (D-MI) appeared at the GM Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant to take factory delivery of a new crossover vehicle. Following a press conference with Plant Manager Randy Thayer, UAW Local 602 President Brian Fredline, and Saturn of Grand Ledge owner Sherrill Freeborough, Schauer toured the plant’s world-class facilities and met with the workers who built his new Saturn Outlook.

“Saving the auto industry is about saving the American middle-class,” said Schauer. “We have the best workers in the world right here in Delta Township, and even in these tough economic times, I’m willing to put my money where my mouth is and support the men and women in our community who build these award-winning vehicles.”

Last year, the Acadia, Outlook, Enclave, and Chevy Traverse were named a Top Safety Pick for 2009 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. To qualify, a vehicle must earn the highest rating in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control. Additionally, the Enclave was recently named Family Crossover/SUV of the year by motherproof.com.

“Most politicians talk about supporting the American worker, but Congressman Schauer put his money where his heart is, and bought a locally produced, UAW built, GM vehicle,” said UAW Local 602 President Brian Fredline. “Mark has taken the lead, and we hope the rest of America will follow.”


Last year, then-Senator Schauer was driving all over the 7th in a Saturn that had more miles on it than mine did. Still looked like it was in great shape too. Another happy customer that we kept in the Saturn cult family.

GM will make Saturn on contract for Penske for the next two years; plans seem pretty up in the air after that. "If sales are sufficient", Penske says that manufacturing should remain here, but they will be talking with "worldwide" partners in the meantime.

Hope they can make it fly - at least the brand will now have someone who will be dedicated to upgrading and promoting the line, something that Saturn hasn't had in years. If this works out right, they have a great chance at long-term success.