General Motors is planning a recall of nearly 69,000 Chevrolet Bolt Electric Vehicles citing risk of fire and replacing cars battery module assemblies also. GM said that the vehicles pose a fire risk when charged to full, or nearly full capacity.

World Business Watch: General Motors recalling nearly 69,000 Bolt EVs for fire risks

General Motors and Ford Motor both said that they will cut more vehicle production due to a semiconductor chip shortage that has roiled the global automotive industry.

World Business Watch: GM, Ford cutting more production due to chip shortage

General Motors is testing a variety of battery chemistries, technologies and manufacturing processes aimed at slashing the cost of future electric vehicle batteries and reducing its dependence on such price-sensitive metals as cobalt.

World Business Watch: GM aims at slashing electric vehicles battery costs

General Motors reported a modest rise in car sales in North America for the first quarter, but its operations continue to be hampered by a shortage of computer chips.

GM said on Thursday that it sold 642,250 cars and light trucks in the first three months of the year, up just 4% even though sales a year ago slowed sharply as the coronavirus pandemic took hold.

By contrast, Toyota Motor Corp. showed a strong rebound in sales compared with a year ago. The Japanese company reported that sales in North America jumped 22% in the first three months of 2021, to 603,066 cars and light trucks. Its March sales were a record high for that month.

Toyota’s big jump helped it outsell Ford Motor Co., which has also been hit by the semiconductor shortage. Ford’s sales in the first quarter were up just 1%, to 521,334. Stellantis — the company formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler and France’s Peugeot SA — reported its U.S. sales increased 5% in the first quarter.

Ford and GM both enjoyed substantial increases in sales to individual customers at dealerships while reporting declines in sales to fleet operators like rental car companies and governments.

GM and Ford have had to halt or slow production at a handful of plants. GM has resorted to making some vehicles without parts containing computer chips with the intention of installing those components before sale when supply improves.

In a statement, GM said it hoped its strategy for building cars without some components would help it “quickly meet strong expected customer demand during the year.”

That approach to building cars “underscores the dire nature” of the semiconductor shortage, an analyst at CFRA Research, Garrett Nelson, said in a report. “One of the key questions is how much better the U.S. auto sales recovery can get from here.”

The chip shortage is reflected in GM’s unusually low inventory of 334,628 vehicles. That is about 76,000 less than at the end of the fourth quarter and is half the number of vehicles its dealers held in stock a year ago. Ford’s inventory was 56,100 lower than at the end of 2020.

GM’s sluggish sales were confined to its Chevrolet brand, whose sales fell 2% in the first quarter. That included a 13% decline in sales of its full-size Silverado pickup truck, a critical profit-maker for the company. The Buick, Cadillac and GMC brands reported strong sales in the quarter.

Toyota also reported a drop in sales of its full-size pickup, the Tundra. But the decline was more than offset by big increases in sales of its RAV4, Highlander and 4Runner sport-utility vehicles and cars from its Lexus luxury brand.

Also on Thursday, Honda Motor reported its first-quarter sale

General Motors reported a modest rise in car sales in North America for the first quarter, but its operations continue to be hampered by a shortage of computer chips.

General Motors reported a modest rise in car sales in North America for the first quarter, but its operations continue to be hampered by a shortage of computer chips. GM said on Thursday that it sold 642,250 cars and light trucks in the first three months of the year, up just 4% even though sales a year ago slowed sharply as the coronavirus pandemic took hold. By contrast, Toyota Motor Corp. showed a strong rebound in sales compared with a year ago. The Japanese company reported that sales in North America jumped 22% in the first three months of 2021, to 603,066 cars and light trucks. Its March sales were a record high for that month. Toyota’s big jump helped it outsell Ford Motor Co., which has also been hit by the semiconductor shortage. Ford’s sales in the first quarter were up just 1%, to 521,334. Stellantis — the company formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler and France’s Peugeot SA — reported its U.S. sales increased 5% in the first quarter. Ford and GM both enjoyed substantial increases in sales to individual customers at dealerships while reporting declines in sales to fleet operators like rental car companies and governments. GM and Ford have had to halt or slow production at a handful of plants. GM has resorted to making some vehicles without parts containing computer chips with the intention of installing those components before sale when supply improves. In a statement, GM said it hoped its strategy for building cars without some components would help it “quickly meet strong expected customer demand during the year.” That approach to building cars “underscores the dire nature” of the semiconductor shortage, an analyst at CFRA Research, Garrett Nelson, said in a report. “One of the key questions is how much better the U.S. auto sales recovery can get from here.” The chip shortage is reflected in GM’s unusually low inventory of 334,628 vehicles. That is about 76,000 less than at the end of the fourth quarter and is half the number of vehicles its dealers held in stock a year ago. Ford’s inventory was 56,100 lower than at the end of 2020. GM’s sluggish sales were confined to its Chevrolet brand, whose sales fell 2% in the first quarter. That included a 13% decline in sales of its full-size Silverado pickup truck, a critical profit-maker for the company. The Buick, Cadillac and GMC brands reported strong sales in the quarter. Toyota also reported a drop in sales of its full-size pickup, the Tundra. But the decline was more than offset by big increases in sales of its RAV4, Highlander and 4Runner sport-utility vehicles and cars from its Lexus luxury brand. Also on Thursday, Honda Motor reported its first-quarter sale

Toyota sales surge, but GM and Ford’s rebounds are weaker

The global semiconductor chip shortage led General Motors to extend production cuts at three North American plants and add a fourth to the list of factories hit.

World Business Watch: GM extends production cuts due to chip shortage

Automaker General Motors in the United States has said that 'the global semi-conductor shortage - it could hit up to $2 Billion from its current year's profit.

World Business Watch: Chip shortage could hit profit of United States' General Motors

General Motors Co became the latest automaker hit by the global shortage of semiconductor chips as the U.S. automaker said on Wednesday it will take down production next week at four assembly plants.

GM hit by chip shortage, to cut production at four plants

In United States of America, 3 big automakers Ford, General Motors & Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has finally resumed the production of vehicles after over 2 months. Workers return to their work.

US: 3 big automakers finally resumes production of vehicles after over 2 months

A 7 per cent jump in shares, a $30 billion surge in market value, over 2,738 shipments in march, factories back in action and a possible contract-extension for its racing star Sebastian Vettel. Ferrari is speeding off the coronavirus speed-breaker. This Italian luxury car manufacturer is gaining mileage during this pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/covid-19-effect-us-trade-deficit-widens-to-444-billion-uk-car-sales-crashes-to-1946-level-296830" hreflang="en">COVID-19 effect: US trade deficit widens to $44.4 billion; UK car sales crashes to 1946 level</a>

On Monday, the company restarted its factories in Maranello and modena. Several other manufacturing units are expected to resume production. This re-opening is being called the 'back on track' operation because the company's profits are back on track.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-stocks-fall-as-us-china-tensions-threaten-rebound-296550" hreflang="en">Global Markets: Stocks fall as US-China tensions threaten rebound</a>

Ferrari has recorded strong first-quarter earnings. So strong, that it is now worth more than General Motors and Ford. General Motors' market cap fell to 29.3 billion dollars on Monday. Ford fell even lower to 19.2 billion dollars.

Ferrari beats them both, its market capitalization hit 30.1 billion dollars in early trading on the same day.

What makes this feat even more special for Ferrari, is the stark contrast in yearly manufacturing. Ferrari makes only 10,000 cars a year. General Motors produces about 7.7 million vehicles. 
&nbsp; 
What does this mean? 
That Ferrari earns as much profit selling 1 car as ford does selling 908. There's data to back this.

According to a report by the Fiat group, Ferrari earned a handsome profit of $94,000 for every car it sold in 2019.

While another rival, Japanese carmaker Nissan had to sell 926 cars to match this profit margin.

But despite these profits in the sale. The company has lowered its net revenue estimates to $3.9 from 4.5 billion for this year because its racing business is not yet back on track.

Ferrari expects its revenue from Formula One to be sharply lower than in 2019 because races cannot be run without spectators.

The turnover from brand projects too has reduced. Ferrari may have been slowed by the pandemic in one sector.

A 7 per cent jump in shares, a $30 billion surge in market value, over 2,738 shipments in march, factories back in action and a possible contract-extension for its racing star Sebastian Vettel.

A 7 per cent jump in shares, a $30 billion surge in market value, over 2,738 shipments in march, factories back in action and a possible contract-extension for its racing star Sebastian Vettel. Ferrari is speeding off the coronavirus speed-breaker. This Italian luxury car manufacturer is gaining mileage during this pandemic. Also read: COVID-19 effect: US trade deficit widens to $44.4 billion; UK car sales crashes to 1946 level On Monday, the company restarted its factories in Maranello and modena. Several other manufacturing units are expected to resume production. This re-opening is being called the 'back on track' operation because the company's profits are back on track. Also read: Global Markets: Stocks fall as US-China tensions threaten rebound Ferrari has recorded strong first-quarter earnings. So strong, that it is now worth more than General Motors and Ford. General Motors' market cap fell to 29.3 billion dollars on Monday. Ford fell even lower to 19.2 billion dollars. Ferrari beats them both, its market capitalization hit 30.1 billion dollars in early trading on the same day. What makes this feat even more special for Ferrari, is the stark contrast in yearly manufacturing. Ferrari makes only 10,000 cars a year. General Motors produces about 7.7 million vehicles. What does this mean? That Ferrari earns as much profit selling 1 car as ford does selling 908. There's data to back this. According to a report by the Fiat group, Ferrari earned a handsome profit of $94,000 for every car it sold in 2019. While another rival, Japanese carmaker Nissan had to sell 926 cars to match this profit margin. But despite these profits in the sale. The company has lowered its net revenue estimates to $3.9 from 4.5 billion for this year because its racing business is not yet back on track. Ferrari expects its revenue from Formula One to be sharply lower than in 2019 because races cannot be run without spectators. The turnover from brand projects too has reduced. Ferrari may have been slowed by the pandemic in one sector.

Amid COVID-19, Ferrari overtakes Ford, General Motors after $30 billion surge in market value

General Motors Co said that it will wind down sales, design and engineering operations in Australia and New Zealand and retire the Holden brand by 2021. Basically, It decides to retreat from more markets outside of the United States and China.

American General Motors decides to retreat from more markets outside of the US & China

General Motors Co's self-driving car unit, Cruise, on Tuesday (January 21) unveiled a prototype electric vehicle with no steering wheel or pedals for use in its planned autonomous ride-sharing service.

GM's Cruise unit unveils driverless prototype vehicle for ride-sharing service

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ford-india-introduces-brand-new-premium-suv-endeavour-at-rs-2819-lakh-198952">Ford Motor Co</a>'s&nbsp;China&nbsp;vehicle&nbsp;sales&nbsp;fell for a&nbsp;third&nbsp;consecutive&nbsp;year, by 26.1 percent, as it battles a prolonged overall&nbsp;sales&nbsp;decline in its second-biggest market that has hit demand for its mass-market Ford brand and sports utility&nbsp;vehicles.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-china-has-agreed-to-cut-tariffs-on-us-made-cars-181113">US&nbsp;</a>automaker delivered 146,473&nbsp;vehicles in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-fines-ford-joint-venture-citing-anti-monopoly-law-224439">China</a>&nbsp;in the fourth quarter, down 14.7 percent year-on-year, Ford said in a statement. In total, it sold 567,854&nbsp;vehicles over 2019.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-fines-ford-joint-venture-citing-anti-monopoly-law-224439">China fines Ford joint venture, citing anti-monopoly law</a>

Ford has been trying to revive&nbsp;sales&nbsp;in&nbsp;China&nbsp;after its business began slumping in late 2017.&nbsp;

Sales&nbsp;sank 37&nbsp;percent in 2018, after a 6 percent decline in 2017.

Anning Chen, president and chief executive of Ford Greater&nbsp;China, said that while 2019 was a "challenging"&nbsp;year&nbsp;for the automaker, it saw its market share in the high-to-premium segment stabilise and its&nbsp;sales&nbsp;decline in the value segment start to narrow in the second-half of the&nbsp;year.

"The pressure from the external environment and downward trend of the industry volume will continue in 2020, and we will put more efforts into strengthening our product lineup with more customer-centric products and customer experiences to mitigate the external pressure and improve dealers' profitability."

The automaker plans to launch more than 30 new models in&nbsp;China&nbsp;over the next three&nbsp;years of which over a&nbsp;third&nbsp;will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-miao-wei-no-significant-cut-in-new-energy-vehicle-subsidies-in-2020-273646">electric&nbsp;vehicles</a>. It has also said it would localise management teams by hiring more Chinese staff and aimed to improve relationships with joint venture partners.

New models it launched in the fourth quarter include a new Ford Escape version - for which the automaker said orders received so far have been much higher than expected - and the Lincoln Corsair, the first localized Lincoln model in&nbsp;China.

In&nbsp;China, Ford makes cars through a joint venture with Chongqing Changan Automobile Co Ltd and Jiangling Motors Corp Ltd (JMC). It has also said it would partner Zotye Automobile Co Ltd to sell lower priced cars.

Its larger US&nbsp;rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gm-workers-struggle-with-daily-expenses-as-long-strike-continues-255454">General Motors</a> Co last week said its&nbsp;sales&nbsp;in&nbsp;China&nbsp;fell 15&nbsp;percent from a&nbsp;year&nbsp;earlier to 3.09 million&nbsp;vehicles in 2019, its second&nbsp;year&nbsp;of decline.

China's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-auto-sales-slump-continues-in-april-218327">auto market</a> is set to contract by 2 percent in 2020 for the&nbsp;third&nbsp;year&nbsp;of decline, the&nbsp;China&nbsp;Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) forecast, due to a weaker economy and trade dispute with the United States.

Over 28 million&nbsp;vehicles were sold in 2018, down 3&nbsp;percent from the prior&nbsp;year, while 2019&nbsp;sales&nbsp;are likely to have declined 8&nbsp;percent from the prior&nbsp;year, CAAM said.

Ford Motor Co's China vehicle sales fell for a third consecutive year, by 26.1 percent, as it battles a prolonged overall sales decline in its second-biggest market that has hit demand for its mass-market Ford brand and sports utility vehicles.

Ford Motor Co's China vehicle sales fell for a third consecutive year, by 26.1 percent, as it battles a prolonged overall sales decline in its second-biggest market that has hit demand for its mass-market Ford brand and sports utility vehicles. The US automaker delivered 146,473 vehicles in China in the fourth quarter, down 14.7 percent year-on-year, Ford said in a statement. In total, it sold 567,854 vehicles over 2019. Also read: China fines Ford joint venture, citing anti-monopoly law Ford has been trying to revive sales in China after its business began slumping in late 2017. Sales sank 37 percent in 2018, after a 6 percent decline in 2017. Anning Chen, president and chief executive of Ford Greater China, said that while 2019 was a "challenging" year for the automaker, it saw its market share in the high-to-premium segment stabilise and its sales decline in the value segment start to narrow in the second-half of the year. "The pressure from the external environment and downward trend of the industry volume will continue in 2020, and we will put more efforts into strengthening our product lineup with more customer-centric products and customer experiences to mitigate the external pressure and improve dealers' profitability." The automaker plans to launch more than 30 new models in China over the next three years of which over a third will be electric vehicles. It has also said it would localise management teams by hiring more Chinese staff and aimed to improve relationships with joint venture partners. New models it launched in the fourth quarter include a new Ford Escape version - for which the automaker said orders received so far have been much higher than expected - and the Lincoln Corsair, the first localized Lincoln model in China. In China, Ford makes cars through a joint venture with Chongqing Changan Automobile Co Ltd and Jiangling Motors Corp Ltd (JMC). It has also said it would partner Zotye Automobile Co Ltd to sell lower priced cars. Its larger US rival General Motors Co last week said its sales in China fell 15 percent from a year earlier to 3.09 million vehicles in 2019, its second year of decline. China's auto market is set to contract by 2 percent in 2020 for the third year of decline, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) forecast, due to a weaker economy and trade dispute with the United States. Over 28 million vehicles were sold in 2018, down 3 percent from the prior year, while 2019 sales are likely to have declined 8 percent from the prior year, CAAM said.

Ford's vehicle sales in China tumble for third consecutive year

Betty Johnson, who has worked on General Motors assembly lines in Michigan and Tennessee for more than 34 years, said she knew a strike by the United Auto Workers would mean personal sacrifice.

Nearly 50,000 GM hourly employees have been striking since September 16 in a walkout that has halted production at 31 factories and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gm-temporarily-lays-off-6000-workers-in-mexico-due-to-strike-253197"> led to thousands of layoffs</a> at auto supply companies.

"It's not easy," Johnson said. "I've got $45 left from my $250 in strike pay. I'm getting ready to hit up my 401K (retirement account) and borrow from myself," she said as she picketed outside GM's Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant.

GM employees who are boycotting receive only $250 a week, a minuscule fraction of their normal salaries.

Johnson has already contacted the United Way, the local community organization that helps families in distress, for assistance in stretching out her utility bills and mortgage payments. &nbsp;

The union has urged members to contact a community information and referral services hotline and passed out cards with the corresponding phone number, Johnson said.

Credit unions supported by organized labour have also stepped forward to help some of the strikers.

"I don't see how you can feed five children on $250 a week," said Johnson, noting that many of her coworkers face even greater hardships, especially temporary employees.

The UAW says the typical GM worker at the top of the pay scale makes an average of $65,000 per year and employees with less than eight years seniority make even less.

Meanwhile, the seven per cent of GM workers classified as temporary employees make&nbsp;$16.50 per hour or about $33,000 per year.

Community support&nbsp;

Louis Rocha, president of UAW Local 5960 in a suburb of Detroit, Michigan, who works at an assembly plant where GM builds electric vehicles, said community support has been helpful.

Local 5960 runs a striking kitchen that prepares food around the clock and gives away free meals thanks to donations from local businesses, churches, community groups and ordinary people.

Pizza has been delivered free of charge to the hall every day since the strike began on September 16, he added.

Rocha even recounted the story of a local veterinarian who offered to do surgery on a family's cat for free so that they didn't have to euthanize it.

Gerald Lang, Local 5960 vice president, said he doesn't believe GM ever anticipated the broad community support the UAW has gotten during the walkout.

"There are a lot of workers pinched by corporations. Everyone who packs a lunch box sees it and knows it. They're expected to do more with less," said Lang.

Workers have been learning to economize on food, transportation and entertainment.

David Michael, a member of Local 5960, said he dropped cable television and switched to processed food.

"I buy gas by the gallon rather than filling it up," said Michael, who has dipped into savings to cover his bills.

Diana Reed, who has worked for GM for 20 years and is also a member of Local 5960, said she's begun combing her house for belongings to sell on an online marketplace.

A single mother with five sons, Reed said her three oldest have jobs and are helping with household bills while her youngest two, both at university, took the semester off to save money since she pays their tuition.

"Do I feel bad? Yes. But it's a concession we had to make," Reed said.

"It's hard for people to save for something like this," said Reed, who notes that most workers with children live paycheck to paycheck.

Reed, who has previously made donations to food pantries, now finds the tables turned, accepting donated food.

"I had to put down my pride and that was hard. The big thing that made me put that down was thinking about my boys," she said.

Betty Johnson, who has worked on General Motors assembly lines in Michigan and Tennessee for more than 34 years, said she knew a strike by the United Auto Workers would mean personal sacrifice.

Betty Johnson, who has worked on General Motors assembly lines in Michigan and Tennessee for more than 34 years, said she knew a strike by the United Auto Workers would mean personal sacrifice. Nearly 50,000 GM hourly employees have been striking since September 16 in a walkout that has halted production at 31 factories and led to thousands of layoffs at auto supply companies. "It's not easy," Johnson said. "I've got $45 left from my $250 in strike pay. I'm getting ready to hit up my 401K (retirement account) and borrow from myself," she said as she picketed outside GM's Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant. GM employees who are boycotting receive only $250 a week, a minuscule fraction of their normal salaries. Johnson has already contacted the United Way, the local community organization that helps families in distress, for assistance in stretching out her utility bills and mortgage payments. The union has urged members to contact a community information and referral services hotline and passed out cards with the corresponding phone number, Johnson said. Credit unions supported by organized labour have also stepped forward to help some of the strikers. "I don't see how you can feed five children on $250 a week," said Johnson, noting that many of her coworkers face even greater hardships, especially temporary employees. The UAW says the typical GM worker at the top of the pay scale makes an average of $65,000 per year and employees with less than eight years seniority make even less. Meanwhile, the seven per cent of GM workers classified as temporary employees make $16.50 per hour or about $33,000 per year. Community support Louis Rocha, president of UAW Local 5960 in a suburb of Detroit, Michigan, who works at an assembly plant where GM builds electric vehicles, said community support has been helpful. Local 5960 runs a striking kitchen that prepares food around the clock and gives away free meals thanks to donations from local businesses, churches, community groups and ordinary people. Pizza has been delivered free of charge to the hall every day since the strike began on September 16, he added. Rocha even recounted the story of a local veterinarian who offered to do surgery on a family's cat for free so that they didn't have to euthanize it. Gerald Lang, Local 5960 vice president, said he doesn't believe GM ever anticipated the broad community support the UAW has gotten during the walkout. "There are a lot of workers pinched by corporations. Everyone who packs a lunch box sees it and knows it. They're expected to do more with less," said Lang. Workers have been learning to economize on food, transportation and entertainment. David Michael, a member of Local 5960, said he dropped cable television and switched to processed food. "I buy gas by the gallon rather than filling it up," said Michael, who has dipped into savings to cover his bills. Diana Reed, who has worked for GM for 20 years and is also a member of Local 5960, said she's begun combing her house for belongings to sell on an online marketplace. A single mother with five sons, Reed said her three oldest have jobs and are helping with household bills while her youngest two, both at university, took the semester off to save money since she pays their tuition. "Do I feel bad? Yes. But it's a concession we had to make," Reed said. "It's hard for people to save for something like this," said Reed, who notes that most workers with children live paycheck to paycheck. Reed, who has previously made donations to food pantries, now finds the tables turned, accepting donated food. "I had to put down my pride and that was hard. The big thing that made me put that down was thinking about my boys," she said.

General Motors workers struggle with daily expenses as long strike continues

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/general-motors-workers-begin-nationwide-strike-in-us-249987">General Motors</a> has laid off 6,000 workers in Mexico temporarily due to a US labour strike, which has disrupted production at two plants south of the border manufacturing pickup trucks, the company said Tuesday.

The layoffs affect the Silao assembly and transmission plants in central Mexico, where work has been "disrupted as a result of a parts shortage related to the UAW strike," a GM spokesman said.

The Silao workers are expected to return to their jobs after the strike, the spokesman said.

GM's Mexican arm notified workers at the Silao assembly plant that they had been placed on indefinite, mandatory vacation and would receive 55 per cent of their pay, according to an internal document obtained by AFP.

However, the company emphasized that no one was permanently laid off.

"There are no layoffs for the moment, we&nbsp;are evaluating the situation day to day and hope to restore normal operations soon, in a matter of days," spokeswoman Teresa Cid told AFP.

The two plants in Silao, Guanajuato state, produce GMC and Chevrolet pickup trucks.

The moves come on top of the furlough of more than 3,000 workers in Canada and at an Ohio plant where GM operates a joint venture with Isuzu to make diesel engines.

Nearly 50,000 US workers are on strike at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gm-recalls-35-mn-vehicles-on-brake-issue-249068">GM</a>&nbsp;due to a United Auto Workers conflict over the labour contract, now in its third week.

Workers launched the strike on September 16 after contract talks failed to yield an agreement on wages, health benefits, temporary workers and job security.

The strike also comes against the backdrop of GM's decision last November to effectively shutter five plants in North America.

A report Tuesday from JPMorgan Chase estimated that the strike has so far cost GM $1 billion, adding that the company has the potential to recover some of the lost profits in the fourth quarter if the strike ends soon.

General Motors has laid off 6,000 workers in Mexico temporarily due to a US labour strike, which has disrupted production at two plants south of the border manufacturing pickup trucks, the company said Tuesday.

General Motors has laid off 6,000 workers in Mexico temporarily due to a US labour strike, which has disrupted production at two plants south of the border manufacturing pickup trucks, the company said Tuesday. The layoffs affect the Silao assembly and transmission plants in central Mexico, where work has been "disrupted as a result of a parts shortage related to the UAW strike," a GM spokesman said. The Silao workers are expected to return to their jobs after the strike, the spokesman said. GM's Mexican arm notified workers at the Silao assembly plant that they had been placed on indefinite, mandatory vacation and would receive 55 per cent of their pay, according to an internal document obtained by AFP. However, the company emphasized that no one was permanently laid off. "There are no layoffs for the moment, we are evaluating the situation day to day and hope to restore normal operations soon, in a matter of days," spokeswoman Teresa Cid told AFP. The two plants in Silao, Guanajuato state, produce GMC and Chevrolet pickup trucks. The moves come on top of the furlough of more than 3,000 workers in Canada and at an Ohio plant where GM operates a joint venture with Isuzu to make diesel engines. Nearly 50,000 US workers are on strike at GM due to a United Auto Workers conflict over the labour contract, now in its third week. Workers launched the strike on September 16 after contract talks failed to yield an agreement on wages, health benefits, temporary workers and job security. The strike also comes against the backdrop of GM's decision last November to effectively shutter five plants in North America. A report Tuesday from JPMorgan Chase estimated that the strike has so far cost GM $1 billion, adding that the company has the potential to recover some of the lost profits in the fourth quarter if the strike ends soon.

General Motors temporarily lays off 6,000 workers in Mexico due to strike

The United Auto Workers union began a nationwide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gm-recalls-35-mn-vehicles-on-brake-issue-249068">strike against General Motors</a> on Monday, with some 46,000 members walking off the job after contract talks hit an impasse.

The move to strike, which the Wall Street Journal described as the first major stoppage at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-barbs-general-motors-announces-18-billion-investment-new-jobs-204938">GM in more than a decade</a>, came after the manufacturer's four-year contract with workers expired without an agreement on a replacement.

Local union leaders met in Detroit "and opted to strike at midnight on Sunday," the UAW said on its Twitter account.

"This is our last resort," Terry Dittes, the union's lead negotiator with GM, told a news conference after the meeting. "We are standing up for the fundamental rights of working people in this country."

UAW officials said the two sides remained far apart in the contract negotiations, with disagreements on wages, health care benefits, the status of temporary workers and job security.

"Our members have spoken; we have taken action; and this is a decision we did not make lightly," Ted Krumm, chair of the UAW's national bargaining committee, said in a statement.

"We are standing up for what is right," Krumm said.

Hours before the strike began, US President Donald Trump tweeted: "Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal!"

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Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1173369474730381314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Democratic presidential hopefuls also took to Twitter, to voice support for the strike.

"A job is about a lot more than a paycheck. It's about dignity and respect," frontrunner Joe Biden wrote.

Bernie Sanders urged GM to "end the greed."

"Sit down with the UAW and work out an agreement that treats your workers with the respect and dignity they deserve," the Vermont senator tweeted.

GM's last major strike, according to the Journal, was in 2007 when 73,000 workers at more than 89 facilities walked off the job for two days.&nbsp;

In a statement, GM said it was "disappointing" that the UAW's leadership had decided to call the strike, saying it had presented a "strong offer" in contract negotiations.

"We have negotiated in good faith and with a sense of urgency. Our goal remains to build a strong future for our employees and our business," it said.

UAW's leadership had previously won overwhelming approval from its rank-and-file for a strike if it became necessary.

Workers at Ford and Fiat Chrysler agreed to extend their contracts, but GM management was informed Saturday that the union would not extend its contract.

Earlier on Sunday, contract maintenance workers walked off the job at GM plants in Michigan and Ohio in a parallel dispute with contractor Aramark.

GM has enjoyed several years of strong sales, posting $11.8 billion in operating profits last year, prompting union officials to argue it is time to share the wealth with workers who have borne the brunt of downturns.

But the outlook for GM is less clear, with concerns growing that a recession may be in the offing amid protracted trade tensions.

GM announced last November it was effectively shuttering five plants in North America, including facilities in Michigan and Ohio that were "unallocated" for production.

Protecting jobs and saving those plants have been key issues in the negotiations.

In its response to the strike, GM's management revealed that its offer included a promise of $7 billion in investments that would save or protect 5,400 union jobs and address the issue of the two "unallocated" plants.

It also promised that a new all-electric truck would be built in a US plant.

Adding to the friction is a federal corruption probe of the union leadership, which resulted in an FBI search last month of the home of UAW President Gary Jones.

A member of the UAW's executive board, Vance Pearson, was arrested on Thursday on charges of conspiracy to use union dues for lavish personal expenses.

Pearson, a UAW director in St. Louis, Missouri, was accused of using union conferences as a cover to justify long-term stays at luxury resorts in California.

The United Auto Workers union began a nationwide strike against General Motors on Monday, with some 46,000 members walking off the job after contract talks hit an impasse.

The United Auto Workers union began a nationwide strike against General Motors on Monday, with some 46,000 members walking off the job after contract talks hit an impasse. The move to strike, which the Wall Street Journal described as the first major stoppage at GM in more than a decade, came after the manufacturer's four-year contract with workers expired without an agreement on a replacement. Local union leaders met in Detroit "and opted to strike at midnight on Sunday," the UAW said on its Twitter account. "This is our last resort," Terry Dittes, the union's lead negotiator with GM, told a news conference after the meeting. "We are standing up for the fundamental rights of working people in this country." UAW officials said the two sides remained far apart in the contract negotiations, with disagreements on wages, health care benefits, the status of temporary workers and job security. "Our members have spoken; we have taken action; and this is a decision we did not make lightly," Ted Krumm, chair of the UAW's national bargaining committee, said in a statement. "We are standing up for what is right," Krumm said. Hours before the strike began, US President Donald Trump tweeted: "Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal!" Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 15, 2019 × Democratic presidential hopefuls also took to Twitter, to voice support for the strike. "A job is about a lot more than a paycheck. It's about dignity and respect," frontrunner Joe Biden wrote. Bernie Sanders urged GM to "end the greed." "Sit down with the UAW and work out an agreement that treats your workers with the respect and dignity they deserve," the Vermont senator tweeted. GM's last major strike, according to the Journal, was in 2007 when 73,000 workers at more than 89 facilities walked off the job for two days. In a statement, GM said it was "disappointing" that the UAW's leadership had decided to call the strike, saying it had presented a "strong offer" in contract negotiations. "We have negotiated in good faith and with a sense of urgency. Our goal remains to build a strong future for our employees and our business," it said. UAW's leadership had previously won overwhelming approval from its rank-and-file for a strike if it became necessary. Workers at Ford and Fiat Chrysler agreed to extend their contracts, but GM management was informed Saturday that the union would not extend its contract. Earlier on Sunday, contract maintenance workers walked off the job at GM plants in Michigan and Ohio in a parallel dispute with contractor Aramark. GM has enjoyed several years of strong sales, posting $11.8 billion in operating profits last year, prompting union officials to argue it is time to share the wealth with workers who have borne the brunt of downturns. But the outlook for GM is less clear, with concerns growing that a recession may be in the offing amid protracted trade tensions. GM announced last November it was effectively shuttering five plants in North America, including facilities in Michigan and Ohio that were "unallocated" for production. Protecting jobs and saving those plants have been key issues in the negotiations. In its response to the strike, GM's management revealed that its offer included a promise of $7 billion in investments that would save or protect 5,400 union jobs and address the issue of the two "unallocated" plants. It also promised that a new all-electric truck would be built in a US plant. Adding to the friction is a federal corruption probe of the union leadership, which resulted in an FBI search last month of the home of UAW President Gary Jones. A member of the UAW's executive board, Vance Pearson, was arrested on Thursday on charges of conspiracy to use union dues for lavish personal expenses. Pearson, a UAW director in St. Louis, Missouri, was accused of using union conferences as a cover to justify long-term stays at luxury resorts in California.

General Motors workers begin nationwide strike in US

General Motors is recalling nearly 3.5 million vehicles because of a brake problem that increases the risk of a crash, according to documents published by a US safety agency.

The issue is with the vacuum pump, which can diminish vacuum over time, affecting braking and "extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash," according to a letter to GM from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

GM will notify owners of the issue, NHTSA said in the letter, which was dated September 10 and available Wednesday on the agency's website.

The issue affects nearly 3.5 million pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado (2014-2018), the GMC Sierra (2014-2018), the Chevrolet Suburban (2015-2018) and the Cadillac Escalade (2015-2017).

The company also is recalling around 180,000 Chevrolet Malibu cars over disabled fuel injectors; 91,000 Chevrolet Express models and GMC Savanas, from 2019, over a problem with the seatbelt light; and 3,400 Buick Enclaves and Chevrolet Traverses, from 2020, over a crack in the engine compartment.

General Motors is recalling nearly 3.5 million vehicles because of a brake problem that increases the risk of a crash, according to documents published by a US safety agency.

General Motors is recalling nearly 3.5 million vehicles because of a brake problem that increases the risk of a crash, according to documents published by a US safety agency. The issue is with the vacuum pump, which can diminish vacuum over time, affecting braking and "extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash," according to a letter to GM from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. GM will notify owners of the issue, NHTSA said in the letter, which was dated September 10 and available Wednesday on the agency's website. The issue affects nearly 3.5 million pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado (2014-2018), the GMC Sierra (2014-2018), the Chevrolet Suburban (2015-2018) and the Cadillac Escalade (2015-2017). The company also is recalling around 180,000 Chevrolet Malibu cars over disabled fuel injectors; 91,000 Chevrolet Express models and GMC Savanas, from 2019, over a problem with the seatbelt light; and 3,400 Buick Enclaves and Chevrolet Traverses, from 2020, over a crack in the engine compartment.

General Motors recalls 3.5 million vehicles over brake issue

One of the most highly anticipated cars globally, GM has finally pulled the wraps off the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C8 as the new version of the iconic American sports car. The new Chevy Corvette is not only different in how it looks but breaks the very mould that the car was known for with its new mid-engined layout.

WION Wallet: 2020 Corvette Launches: Mid-Engine, 495 hp, More Tech, Less Than $60K

General Motors unveiled its new Corvette model in a glitzy ceremony in California on Thursday night.

Chevrolet unveils new mid-engine Corvette

Facing a barrage of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/donald-trump-asks-general-motors-to-stop-manufacturing-cars-in-china-179687">attacks from President Donald Trump over plant closures</a>, General Motors announced Friday a $1.8 billion investment and the creation of 700 new jobs in the United States.

About $300 million will be geared towards production of electric vehicles at the auto giant's Orion plant in Michigan, creating 400 jobs, the company said in a statement.

Those vehicles had been slated for production outside of the United States.

In November, GM shuttered five US plants, including auto assembly plants in Michigan and Ohio as part of a 15 per cent cut in its workforce worldwide -- cutting around 14,000 employees -- which drew Trump's Twitter wrath.

This week he urged the company to reopen the Lordstown, Ohio auto plant or sell it to someone who would.

"We are excited to bring these jobs and this investment to the US,” GM chief Mary Barra said in announcing the plans to employees in Orion.

"This new Chevrolet electric vehicle is another positive step toward our commitment to an all-electric future. GM will continue to invest in our US operations where we see opportunities for growth."

The new investment will help the company comply with new rules agreed to under the revised North American free trade deal, the statement said.

Among other changes, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, requires that manufacturers produce a share of their vehicles in higher-wage factories in order to gain duty-free access to the region -- a requirement aimed at favouring US and Canadian facilities over those in Mexico.

The treaty has yet to be ratified, however.

The Orion plant already builds the Chevy Bolt EV, and the new model "will be based off an advanced version of the same vehicle architecture," the statement said.

However, this is separate from the previously announced plan to produce a Cadillac EV.

In addition to the investment, GM said it is in the process of adding 1,000 jobs to its truck assembly plant in Flint, Michigan.&nbsp;

And the company said it has 2,700 openings at five sites around the country available to the 2,800 hourly workers impacted by the recent plant closures.

Facing a barrage of attacks from President Donald Trump over plant closures, General Motors announced Friday a $1.8 billion investment and the creation of 700 new jobs in the United States.

Facing a barrage of attacks from President Donald Trump over plant closures, General Motors announced Friday a $1.8 billion investment and the creation of 700 new jobs in the United States. About $300 million will be geared towards production of electric vehicles at the auto giant's Orion plant in Michigan, creating 400 jobs, the company said in a statement. Those vehicles had been slated for production outside of the United States. In November, GM shuttered five US plants, including auto assembly plants in Michigan and Ohio as part of a 15 per cent cut in its workforce worldwide -- cutting around 14,000 employees -- which drew Trump's Twitter wrath. This week he urged the company to reopen the Lordstown, Ohio auto plant or sell it to someone who would. "We are excited to bring these jobs and this investment to the US,” GM chief Mary Barra said in announcing the plans to employees in Orion. "This new Chevrolet electric vehicle is another positive step toward our commitment to an all-electric future. GM will continue to invest in our US operations where we see opportunities for growth." The new investment will help the company comply with new rules agreed to under the revised North American free trade deal, the statement said. Among other changes, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, requires that manufacturers produce a share of their vehicles in higher-wage factories in order to gain duty-free access to the region -- a requirement aimed at favouring US and Canadian facilities over those in Mexico. The treaty has yet to be ratified, however. The Orion plant already builds the Chevy Bolt EV, and the new model "will be based off an advanced version of the same vehicle architecture," the statement said. However, this is separate from the previously announced plan to produce a Cadillac EV. In addition to the investment, GM said it is in the process of adding 1,000 jobs to its truck assembly plant in Flint, Michigan. And the company said it has 2,700 openings at five sites around the country available to the 2,800 hourly workers impacted by the recent plant closures.

After Trump barbs, General Motors announces $1.8 billion investment, new jobs

Amazon.com Inc said on Friday it would lead a $700 million investment in US electric pickup truck startup Rivian Automotive LLC, in the e-commerce giant`s biggest bet on technologies with the potential to reshape the automotive sector.

The deal represents a major endorsement of Rivian's electric vehicle technology by the world's largest online retailer, which is looking for ways to boost the speed and reduce the cost of its deliveries.&nbsp;

Reuters reported on Tuesday that Amazon and General Motors Co (GM) were in talks to invest in Rivian. GM's talks with Rivian about investment are continuing and any deal would be announced at a later date, people familiar with the talks said on Friday.

Rivian could ultimately be valued at between $3 billion and $4 billion, one of the sources said.

The Rivian deal comes as its much larger electric car manufacturing rival, Tesla Inc, struggles to stabilize production and deliver consistent profits as it ramps up its mass-market Model 3 sedan.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk told investors in August that an electric pickup is ''probably my personal favourite for the next product'' from the company. But he has spoken only in general about a potential launch, saying that it would happen ''right after'' Tesla’s Model Y, which the company has targeted to start production in 2020.&nbsp;

Rivian unveiled its electric R1T pickup and R1S SUV for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November. But the company had piqued Amazon`s interest earlier, according to one of the sources.

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos personally reached out to Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe last summer to express interest in an investment, the source said. Since then Amazon has stepped up its investment in the car sector, participating in a $530 million funding round announced last week in self-driving car startup Aurora Innovation Inc.

Amazon is looking for deals that can speed packages to shoppers’ doorsteps regardless of spikes in consumer demand or shortages of the delivery personnel. Last year, Mercedes said Amazon had become the biggest customer of its Sprinter vans, securing 20,000 vehicles for delivery contractors.

Amazon has sought to win customers inside the car as well. Working with BMW AG, Ford Motor Co and Toyota Motor Corp, Amazon has enabled its Alexa virtual assistant to be installed in new models so drivers can dictate what music they want to hear and what tasks they want it to perform, hands-free.

Rivian aspires to be the first to produce a mass-market electric pickup. It intends to begin selling its R1T by the end of 2020.

Scaringe has described the Rivian vehicle’s platform as a skateboard that packages the drive units, battery pack, suspension system, brakes and cooling system all below wheel height to allow for more storage space and greater stability due to a lower centre of gravity.

He has also said the company plans to partner with outside firms to develop advanced self-driving technology, rather than try to do so on its own.

Rivian's existing financial backers include Saudi auto distributor Abdul Latif Jameel Co, Sumitomo Corp of Americas and Standard Chartered Bank. 
&nbsp;

Amazon.com Inc said on Friday it would lead a $700 million investment in US electric pickup truck startup Rivian Automotive LLC, in the e-commerce giant`s biggest bet on technologies with the potential to reshape the automotive sector.

Amazon.com Inc said on Friday it would lead a $700 million investment in US electric pickup truck startup Rivian Automotive LLC, in the e-commerce giant`s biggest bet on technologies with the potential to reshape the automotive sector. The deal represents a major endorsement of Rivian's electric vehicle technology by the world's largest online retailer, which is looking for ways to boost the speed and reduce the cost of its deliveries. Reuters reported on Tuesday that Amazon and General Motors Co (GM) were in talks to invest in Rivian. GM's talks with Rivian about investment are continuing and any deal would be announced at a later date, people familiar with the talks said on Friday. Rivian could ultimately be valued at between $3 billion and $4 billion, one of the sources said. The Rivian deal comes as its much larger electric car manufacturing rival, Tesla Inc, struggles to stabilize production and deliver consistent profits as it ramps up its mass-market Model 3 sedan. Tesla CEO Elon Musk told investors in August that an electric pickup is ''probably my personal favourite for the next product'' from the company. But he has spoken only in general about a potential launch, saying that it would happen ''right after'' Tesla’s Model Y, which the company has targeted to start production in 2020. Rivian unveiled its electric R1T pickup and R1S SUV for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November. But the company had piqued Amazon`s interest earlier, according to one of the sources. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos personally reached out to Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe last summer to express interest in an investment, the source said. Since then Amazon has stepped up its investment in the car sector, participating in a $530 million funding round announced last week in self-driving car startup Aurora Innovation Inc. Amazon is looking for deals that can speed packages to shoppers’ doorsteps regardless of spikes in consumer demand or shortages of the delivery personnel. Last year, Mercedes said Amazon had become the biggest customer of its Sprinter vans, securing 20,000 vehicles for delivery contractors. Amazon has sought to win customers inside the car as well. Working with BMW AG, Ford Motor Co and Toyota Motor Corp, Amazon has enabled its Alexa virtual assistant to be installed in new models so drivers can dictate what music they want to hear and what tasks they want it to perform, hands-free. Rivian aspires to be the first to produce a mass-market electric pickup. It intends to begin selling its R1T by the end of 2020. Scaringe has described the Rivian vehicle’s platform as a skateboard that packages the drive units, battery pack, suspension system, brakes and cooling system all below wheel height to allow for more storage space and greater stability due to a lower centre of gravity. He has also said the company plans to partner with outside firms to develop advanced self-driving technology, rather than try to do so on its own. Rivian's existing financial backers include Saudi auto distributor Abdul Latif Jameel Co, Sumitomo Corp of Americas and Standard Chartered Bank.

Amazon places big bet on aspiring Tesla rival Rivian

General Motors Co on Monday said it was starting to hand pink slips to about 4,000 salaried workers in the latest round of a restructuring announced in late November that will ultimately shrink its white-collar workforce in North America by 15 per cent out of 54,000.

Two people briefed on the cuts said GM is cutting hundreds of jobs at its information technology centres in Texas, Georgia, Arizona and Michigan and more than 1,000 jobs at its Warren, Michigan Tech Center. GM is filing newly required mass layoff notices with state agencies and disclosed the cuts to lawmakers.

The largest US automaker announced in November it would cut a total of about 15,000 jobs and end production at five North American plants. The cuts include eliminating about 8,000 salaried workers, or about 15 per cent.

GM cut about 1,500 contract workers in December and said 2,300 salaried workers accepted buyouts, officials said.

"These actions are necessary to secure the future of the company, including preserving thousands of jobs in the US and globally. We are taking action now while the overall economy and job market are strong, increasing the ability of impacted employees to continue to advance in their careers, should they choose to do so," GM spokesman Pat Morrissey said, adding the bulk of the cuts should be completed in the next two weeks.

Morrissey said GM would provide salaried workers with severance packages and job placement services.

GM is also cutting its executive ranks by 25 per cent and last week laid off three senior people in its Washington office and some other small salaried layoffs previously took place.

President Donald Trump and US&nbsp;and Canadian lawmakers have blasted GM's plans to end production at plants in Ontario, Michigan, Ohio and Maryland. GM said in November it would end US&nbsp;and Canadian production of the Chevrolet Cruze, Volt, Impala, the Buick LaCrosse and the Cadillac XTS and CT6 sedans.

Trump, who made a 2017 speech near GM's Lordstown Assembly plant in Ohio, said in November the company had "better" find a new product for that plant.

But GM Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra wrote last week: "We are more convinced than ever that our strategy is sound and in the long term."

Last month, Comprehensive Logistics said it would cease operations at its facility in Lordstown that provides logistics and warehousing, impacting about 180 jobs. Magna International Inc is also laying off about 120 people at its Lordstown Seating Systems plant that makes seats for GM vehicles.

General Motors Co on Monday said it was starting to hand pink slips to about 4,000 salaried workers in the latest round of a restructuring announced in late November that will ultimately shrink its white-collar workforce in North America by 15 per cent out of 54,000.

General Motors Co on Monday said it was starting to hand pink slips to about 4,000 salaried workers in the latest round of a restructuring announced in late November that will ultimately shrink its white-collar workforce in North America by 15 per cent out of 54,000. Two people briefed on the cuts said GM is cutting hundreds of jobs at its information technology centres in Texas, Georgia, Arizona and Michigan and more than 1,000 jobs at its Warren, Michigan Tech Center. GM is filing newly required mass layoff notices with state agencies and disclosed the cuts to lawmakers. The largest US automaker announced in November it would cut a total of about 15,000 jobs and end production at five North American plants. The cuts include eliminating about 8,000 salaried workers, or about 15 per cent. GM cut about 1,500 contract workers in December and said 2,300 salaried workers accepted buyouts, officials said. "These actions are necessary to secure the future of the company, including preserving thousands of jobs in the US and globally. We are taking action now while the overall economy and job market are strong, increasing the ability of impacted employees to continue to advance in their careers, should they choose to do so," GM spokesman Pat Morrissey said, adding the bulk of the cuts should be completed in the next two weeks. Morrissey said GM would provide salaried workers with severance packages and job placement services. GM is also cutting its executive ranks by 25 per cent and last week laid off three senior people in its Washington office and some other small salaried layoffs previously took place. President Donald Trump and US and Canadian lawmakers have blasted GM's plans to end production at plants in Ontario, Michigan, Ohio and Maryland. GM said in November it would end US and Canadian production of the Chevrolet Cruze, Volt, Impala, the Buick LaCrosse and the Cadillac XTS and CT6 sedans. Trump, who made a 2017 speech near GM's Lordstown Assembly plant in Ohio, said in November the company had "better" find a new product for that plant. But GM Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra wrote last week: "We are more convinced than ever that our strategy is sound and in the long term." Last month, Comprehensive Logistics said it would cease operations at its facility in Lordstown that provides logistics and warehousing, impacting about 180 jobs. Magna International Inc is also laying off about 120 people at its Lordstown Seating Systems plant that makes seats for GM vehicles.

General Motors cutting 4,000 workers in latest round of restructuring

General Motors is expected to lay off about 4,000 salaried workers under a reorganization announced late last year, a person familiar with the matter said Friday.

The layoffs are part of a cost-cutting plan GM announced in November, which will slash 15 per cent of its salaried and contract staff and shutter seven plants, including five in North America.

Media reports estimated the total job cuts of salaried staff and union workers at about 14,000, including about &nbsp;6,000 union workers. GM said the actions -- which were roundly criticized by US and Canadian politicians -- would save $6 billion in costs.

GM has not estimated how many workers would be involuntarily terminated as a result of the cuts.

A GM spokesman declined to comment on the timing of the layoffs after CNBC and the Detroit News reported they would begin Monday to get ahead of the company's earnings report.&nbsp;

The spokesman said, "we'll communicate with our employees first."

About 2,300 salaried workers opted for voluntary buyouts, while another 1,500 contract staff were let go, said the source, who described the estimate of 4,000 laid off salaried staff as reasonable.

GM officials have said they expect to add 2,700 jobs at various US factories across and that US union staff would be offered transfers.

The automaker also is working with Canadian universities and government officials to assist some 3,000 workers affected by the closure of an Ontario plant, a GM spokesman said.

Brian Rothenberg, a spokesman for the United Auto Workers, said not all workers eligible for transfers will be able to relocate for family reasons.

"All of them are impacted," Rothenberg said. "We don't know how many will be laid off vs relocated."

GM has defended the cuts as essential to position the company for the long-term, and savings from the reorganization boosted its 2019 profit outlook.&nbsp;

But the moves were roundly condemned by politicians, including US President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

General Motors is expected to lay off about 4,000 salaried workers under a reorganization announced late last year, a person familiar with the matter said Friday.

General Motors is expected to lay off about 4,000 salaried workers under a reorganization announced late last year, a person familiar with the matter said Friday. The layoffs are part of a cost-cutting plan GM announced in November, which will slash 15 per cent of its salaried and contract staff and shutter seven plants, including five in North America. Media reports estimated the total job cuts of salaried staff and union workers at about 14,000, including about 6,000 union workers. GM said the actions -- which were roundly criticized by US and Canadian politicians -- would save $6 billion in costs. GM has not estimated how many workers would be involuntarily terminated as a result of the cuts. A GM spokesman declined to comment on the timing of the layoffs after CNBC and the Detroit News reported they would begin Monday to get ahead of the company's earnings report. The spokesman said, "we'll communicate with our employees first." About 2,300 salaried workers opted for voluntary buyouts, while another 1,500 contract staff were let go, said the source, who described the estimate of 4,000 laid off salaried staff as reasonable. GM officials have said they expect to add 2,700 jobs at various US factories across and that US union staff would be offered transfers. The automaker also is working with Canadian universities and government officials to assist some 3,000 workers affected by the closure of an Ontario plant, a GM spokesman said. Brian Rothenberg, a spokesman for the United Auto Workers, said not all workers eligible for transfers will be able to relocate for family reasons. "All of them are impacted," Rothenberg said. "We don't know how many will be laid off vs relocated." GM has defended the cuts as essential to position the company for the long-term, and savings from the reorganization boosted its 2019 profit outlook. But the moves were roundly condemned by politicians, including US President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

General Motors to lay off about 4,000 salaried workers: Report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-asks-nato-to-send-ships-to-back-it-in-conflict-with-russia-180117">Ukraine asks NATO to send ships to back it in conflict with Russia</a>

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko asked NATO members including Germany Thursday to send naval vessels to the Sea of Azov to back his country in the standoff with Russia.

"Germany is one of our closest allies, and we hope that states within NATO are now ready to relocate naval ships to the Sea of Azov in order to assist Ukraine and provide security," he told Germany's Bild daily.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-defends-lawful-seizure-of-ukrainian-ships-180120">Vladimir Putin defends 'lawful' seizure of Ukrainian ships</a>

President Vladimir Putin insisted Wednesday that Russian forces were in the right to seize three Ukrainian ships last weekend, but President Donald Trump expressed "deep concern" at Moscow's actions against a US ally.

In his first extensive remarks since the confrontation at sea on Sunday, Putin said it had been orchestrated by Kiev as a "provocation".

He said the Ukrainian ships had entered Russian territorial waters and refused to respond to requests to stop from Russian patrol boats.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-studying-new-auto-tariffs-after-general-motors-announces-job-cuts-180128">Trump studying new auto tariffs after General Motors announces job cuts</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that new auto tariffs were "being studied now," asserting they could prevent job cuts such as the US layoffs and plant closures that General Motors Co announced this week.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-love-and-respect-for-sidhu-in-pakistan-than-in-india-harsimrat-kaur-180122">More love and respect for Sidhu in Pakistan than in India: Harsimrat Kaur Badal</a>

Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Wednesday took a jibe at Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu and said that he seems to be getting more love and respect from Pakistan than India.

Badal`s statement comes after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan during the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur Corridor across the border said that Sidhu can also win elections in his country.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-made-to-look-like-butchers-against-psg-says-klopp-180125">Champions League: Liverpool made to look 'like butchers' against PSG, says Klopp</a>

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said his team "looked like butchers" because of the reactions of the Paris Saint-Germain players to challenges during the French team's 2-1 Champions League win on Wednesday.

"We are one of the fairest teams in England but tonight we looked like butchers," Klopp said.&nbsp;

Liverpool -- beaten in each of their past five games away from Anfield in the Champions League -- now face the real prospect of missing out on the knockout stages just six months after reaching the final against Real Madrid.

Ukraine asks NATO to send ships to back it in conflict with Russia Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko asked NATO members including Germany Thursday to send naval vessels to the Sea of Azov to back his country in the standoff with Russia.

Ukraine asks NATO to send ships to back it in conflict with Russia Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko asked NATO members including Germany Thursday to send naval vessels to the Sea of Azov to back his country in the standoff with Russia. "Germany is one of our closest allies, and we hope that states within NATO are now ready to relocate naval ships to the Sea of Azov in order to assist Ukraine and provide security," he told Germany's Bild daily. Vladimir Putin defends 'lawful' seizure of Ukrainian ships President Vladimir Putin insisted Wednesday that Russian forces were in the right to seize three Ukrainian ships last weekend, but President Donald Trump expressed "deep concern" at Moscow's actions against a US ally. In his first extensive remarks since the confrontation at sea on Sunday, Putin said it had been orchestrated by Kiev as a "provocation". He said the Ukrainian ships had entered Russian territorial waters and refused to respond to requests to stop from Russian patrol boats. Trump studying new auto tariffs after General Motors announces job cuts US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that new auto tariffs were "being studied now," asserting they could prevent job cuts such as the US layoffs and plant closures that General Motors Co announced this week. More love and respect for Sidhu in Pakistan than in India: Harsimrat Kaur Badal Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Wednesday took a jibe at Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu and said that he seems to be getting more love and respect from Pakistan than India. Badal`s statement comes after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan during the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur Corridor across the border said that Sidhu can also win elections in his country. Champions League: Liverpool made to look 'like butchers' against PSG, says Klopp Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said his team "looked like butchers" because of the reactions of the Paris Saint-Germain players to challenges during the French team's 2-1 Champions League win on Wednesday. "We are one of the fairest teams in England but tonight we looked like butchers," Klopp said. Liverpool -- beaten in each of their past five games away from Anfield in the Champions League -- now face the real prospect of missing out on the knockout stages just six months after reaching the final against Real Madrid.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that new auto tariffs were "being studied now," asserting they could <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/general-motors-shuttering-plants-cutting-15-of-workforce-179659">prevent job cuts such as the US layoffs and plant closures</a> that General Motors Co announced this week.

Trump said on Twitter that the 25 percent tariff placed on imported pickup trucks and commercial vans from markets outside North America in the 1960s had long boosted US vehicle production.

"If we did that with cars coming in, many more cars would be built here," Trump said, "and G.M. would not be closing their plants in Ohio, Michigan &amp; Maryland."

The United States currently has a 2.5 percent tariff on imported cars and sport utility vehicles from markets outside North America and South Korea. The new North American trade deal exempts the first 2.6 million SUVs and passenger cars built in Mexico and Canada from new tariffs.

Several automakers said privately on Wednesday they feared GM's action could prompt Trump to take action faster than expected on new tariffs.

GM did not directly comment on Trump's tweets, but reiterated that it was committed to investing in the United States. On Monday, the company said it would shutter five North American plants, stop building six low-selling passenger cars in North America and cut up to 15,000 jobs. The company has no plans to shift production of those vehicles to other markets.

The administration has for months been considering imposing dramatic new tariffs on imported vehicles.

The U.S. Commerce Department has circulated draft recommendations to the White House on its investigation into whether to impose tariffs of up to 25 percent on imported cars and parts on national security grounds, Reuters reported earlier this month.

"The President has great power on this issue - Because of the G.M. event, it is being studied now!" Trump said.

The prospect of tariffs of 25 percent on imported autos and parts has sent shockwaves through the auto industry, with both U.S. and foreign-brand producers lobbying against it and warning that national security tariffs on EU and Japanese vehicles could dramatically raise the price of many vehicles.

'ALL AVAILABLE TOOLS'

Trump has also harshly criticized GM for building cars in China. The United States slapped an additional 25 percent tariff on Chinese-made vehicles earlier this year, prompting China to retaliate.

China currently imposes a 40 percent tariff on U.S. automobiles, while the United States has a 27.5 percent tariff on Chinese vehicles.

US&nbsp;Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said in a statement on Wednesday that he "will examine all available tools to equalise the tariffs applied to automobiles."

Additional tariffs on Chinese-made vehicle and parts would have a limited impact, said Kristin Dziczek, an economist at the Center for Automotive Research. She noted only a small number of vehicles were exported from China to the United States annually.

The White House previously pledged not to move forward with imposing national security tariffs on the European Union or Japan as long as it was making constructive progress in trade talks.

Trump wants the EU and Japan to buy more American-made vehicles. He wants the EU and Japan to make trade concessions including lowering the EU’s 10 percent tariff on imported vehicles and cutting non-tariff barriers.

The White House in recent weeks has reached out to the chief executives of German automakers including Daimler AG, BMW AG, and Volkswagen AG about meeting to discuss the status of auto trade.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that new auto tariffs were "being studied now," asserting they could prevent job cuts such as the US layoffs and plant closures that General Motors Co announced this week.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that new auto tariffs were "being studied now," asserting they could prevent job cuts such as the US layoffs and plant closures that General Motors Co announced this week. Trump said on Twitter that the 25 percent tariff placed on imported pickup trucks and commercial vans from markets outside North America in the 1960s had long boosted US vehicle production. "If we did that with cars coming in, many more cars would be built here," Trump said, "and G.M. would not be closing their plants in Ohio, Michigan & Maryland." The United States currently has a 2.5 percent tariff on imported cars and sport utility vehicles from markets outside North America and South Korea. The new North American trade deal exempts the first 2.6 million SUVs and passenger cars built in Mexico and Canada from new tariffs. Several automakers said privately on Wednesday they feared GM's action could prompt Trump to take action faster than expected on new tariffs. GM did not directly comment on Trump's tweets, but reiterated that it was committed to investing in the United States. On Monday, the company said it would shutter five North American plants, stop building six low-selling passenger cars in North America and cut up to 15,000 jobs. The company has no plans to shift production of those vehicles to other markets. The administration has for months been considering imposing dramatic new tariffs on imported vehicles. The U.S. Commerce Department has circulated draft recommendations to the White House on its investigation into whether to impose tariffs of up to 25 percent on imported cars and parts on national security grounds, Reuters reported earlier this month. "The President has great power on this issue - Because of the G.M. event, it is being studied now!" Trump said. The prospect of tariffs of 25 percent on imported autos and parts has sent shockwaves through the auto industry, with both U.S. and foreign-brand producers lobbying against it and warning that national security tariffs on EU and Japanese vehicles could dramatically raise the price of many vehicles. 'ALL AVAILABLE TOOLS' Trump has also harshly criticized GM for building cars in China. The United States slapped an additional 25 percent tariff on Chinese-made vehicles earlier this year, prompting China to retaliate. China currently imposes a 40 percent tariff on U.S. automobiles, while the United States has a 27.5 percent tariff on Chinese vehicles. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said in a statement on Wednesday that he "will examine all available tools to equalise the tariffs applied to automobiles." Additional tariffs on Chinese-made vehicle and parts would have a limited impact, said Kristin Dziczek, an economist at the Center for Automotive Research. She noted only a small number of vehicles were exported from China to the United States annually. The White House previously pledged not to move forward with imposing national security tariffs on the European Union or Japan as long as it was making constructive progress in trade talks. Trump wants the EU and Japan to buy more American-made vehicles. He wants the EU and Japan to make trade concessions including lowering the EU’s 10 percent tariff on imported vehicles and cutting non-tariff barriers. The White House in recent weeks has reached out to the chief executives of German automakers including Daimler AG, BMW AG, and Volkswagen AG about meeting to discuss the status of auto trade.

Trump studying new auto tariffs after General Motors announces job cuts

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-warns-of-threat-of-full-scale-war-with-russia-179864">Ukraine warns of threat of 'full-scale war' with Russia</a>

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Tuesday warned of the threat of "full-scale war" and said Russia had sharply increased its military presence on their shared border as tensions escalate between the ex-Soviet neighbours.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-elections-2018-polling-begins-in-mizoram-179865">Assembly elections 2018: Polling begins in Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram</a>

Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram go to the polls today. While the northeastern state is one of three in the country currently under Congress rule, the BJP has now been in power in Madhya Pradesh for three terms.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/paks-imran-khan-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-kartarpur-corridor-today-179871">Pak's Imran Khan to lay </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/paks-imran-khan-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-kartarpur-corridor-today-179871">foundation</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/paks-imran-khan-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-kartarpur-corridor-today-179871"> stone for Kartarpur Corridor today</a>

Prime Minister Imran Khan will on Wednesday lay the foundation stone for the much-awaited corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur — the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev — to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district to facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-cut-gm-subsidies-in-retaliation-for-us-job-cuts-179852">After US job cuts, Trump threatens to stop all GM subsidies</a>

US President Donald Trump threatened on Tuesday to eliminate subsidies for General Motors Co in retaliation for the automaker cutting US jobs and plants, and the automaker also took fire from Canadian political and labour leaders for cutbacks there.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suggests-creating-worldwide-network-to-counter-cnns-unfair-reporting-179855">To counter CNN's 'unfair' reporting, Trump suggests creating a 'Worldwide Network'</a>

President Donald Trump slammed American broadcast network CNN for portraying the US in an "unfair and false way" to the rest of the world and suggested launching a "Worldwide Network" to counter CNN`s reporting by showing another view of the situation in the country.

Ukraine warns of threat of 'full-scale war' with Russia Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Tuesday warned of the threat of "full-scale war" and said Russia had sharply increased its military presence on their shared border as tensions escalate between the ex-Soviet neighbours.

Ukraine warns of threat of 'full-scale war' with Russia Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Tuesday warned of the threat of "full-scale war" and said Russia had sharply increased its military presence on their shared border as tensions escalate between the ex-Soviet neighbours. Assembly elections 2018: Polling begins in Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram go to the polls today. While the northeastern state is one of three in the country currently under Congress rule, the BJP has now been in power in Madhya Pradesh for three terms. Pak's Imran Khan to lay foundation stone for Kartarpur Corridor today Prime Minister Imran Khan will on Wednesday lay the foundation stone for the much-awaited corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur — the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev — to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district to facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims. After US job cuts, Trump threatens to stop all GM subsidies US President Donald Trump threatened on Tuesday to eliminate subsidies for General Motors Co in retaliation for the automaker cutting US jobs and plants, and the automaker also took fire from Canadian political and labour leaders for cutbacks there. To counter CNN's 'unfair' reporting, Trump suggests creating a 'Worldwide Network' President Donald Trump slammed American broadcast network CNN for portraying the US in an "unfair and false way" to the rest of the world and suggested launching a "Worldwide Network" to counter CNN`s reporting by showing another view of the situation in the country.

President Donald Trump has asked General Motors to stop manufacturing cars in China, according to a media report, after the American automobile company announced its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/general-motors-shuttering-plants-cutting-15-of-workforce-179659">plans to cut around 14,800 jobs in the US and Canada</a>.

Reacting sharply, Trump asked the General Motors to review its decision, which the auto major said would help it save around $4.5 billion in costs by the end of 2020.

The decision will have a major impact on jobs in some of the key states like Ohio and Michigan.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump told the GM chief executive Mary Barra that she should stop making cars in China and open a new plant in Ohio to replace the one that is ending production.

"They better damn well open a new plant there very quickly," Trump told The Wall Street Journal in an interview.&nbsp;

"I love Ohio. I told them, 'You're playing around with the wrong person'," he said, referring to his talks with the GM leadership.

Earlier at the White House, the US President said he did not like GM's decision.&nbsp;

"We don't like it. I believe they'll be opening up something else. I was very tough (with GM leadership). I spoke with her when I heard they were closing. And I said, 'You know, this country has done a lot for General Motors. You better get back in there soon. That's Ohio, and you better get back in there soon'," Trump said.

"So, we have a lot of pressure on them. You have senators, you have a lot of other people -- a lot of pressure. They say the Chevy Cruze is not selling well. I say, 'Well, then get somebody -- get a car that is selling well and put it back in'. So I think you're going to see something else happen there, but I'm not happy about it," he said.

Noting that their car is not selling well, Trump exuded confidence that soon they will put something else.&nbsp;

"I have no doubt that, in a not-too-distant future, they'll put something else. They better put something else in," he said. 
Barra defended the decision of the General Motors.

"The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," Barra said.&nbsp;

"We recognize the need to stay in front of changing market conditions and customer preferences to position our company for long-term success," she added.

"These actions will increase the long-term profit and cash generation potential of the company and improve resilience through the cycle," Barra said.

President Donald Trump has asked General Motors to stop manufacturing cars in China, according to a media report, after the American automobile company announced its plans to cut around 14,800 jobs in the US and Canada.

President Donald Trump has asked General Motors to stop manufacturing cars in China, according to a media report, after the American automobile company announced its plans to cut around 14,800 jobs in the US and Canada. Reacting sharply, Trump asked the General Motors to review its decision, which the auto major said would help it save around $4.5 billion in costs by the end of 2020. The decision will have a major impact on jobs in some of the key states like Ohio and Michigan. According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump told the GM chief executive Mary Barra that she should stop making cars in China and open a new plant in Ohio to replace the one that is ending production. "They better damn well open a new plant there very quickly," Trump told The Wall Street Journal in an interview. "I love Ohio. I told them, 'You're playing around with the wrong person'," he said, referring to his talks with the GM leadership. Earlier at the White House, the US President said he did not like GM's decision. "We don't like it. I believe they'll be opening up something else. I was very tough (with GM leadership). I spoke with her when I heard they were closing. And I said, 'You know, this country has done a lot for General Motors. You better get back in there soon. That's Ohio, and you better get back in there soon'," Trump said. "So, we have a lot of pressure on them. You have senators, you have a lot of other people -- a lot of pressure. They say the Chevy Cruze is not selling well. I say, 'Well, then get somebody -- get a car that is selling well and put it back in'. So I think you're going to see something else happen there, but I'm not happy about it," he said. Noting that their car is not selling well, Trump exuded confidence that soon they will put something else. "I have no doubt that, in a not-too-distant future, they'll put something else. They better put something else in," he said. Barra defended the decision of the General Motors. "The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," Barra said. "We recognize the need to stay in front of changing market conditions and customer preferences to position our company for long-term success," she added. "These actions will increase the long-term profit and cash generation potential of the company and improve resilience through the cycle," Barra said.

After it announces job cuts, Trump asks General Motors to stop making cars in China

In a massive restructuring, US auto giant General Motors announced Monday it will cut 15 per cent of its workforce to save $6 billion and adapt to "changing market conditions."

The moves include shuttering seven plants worldwide as the company responds to changing customer preferences and focuses on popular trucks and SUVs and increasingly on electric models. Wall Street cheered the actions, while US and Canadian leaders expressed outrage.

The closures also drew sharp criticism from the US and Canadian labour union representing GM workers, which accused the company of shifting production overseas at the expense of North American workers.

The job cuts from GM's current 180,000-strong work force will be particularly stinging in politically crucial areas of Ohio and Michigan, a region US President Donald Trump has promised to revive.

"The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement.

"We recognize the need to stay in front of changing market conditions and customer preferences to position our company for long-term success."

Trump expressed dismay at the plan and said he was "very tough" with Barra when they discussed the reorganization.

"I spoke with her when I heard they were closing and I said, 'You know, this country has done a lot for General Motors. You better get back in there soon,'" he told reporters at the White House. "They better put something else in."

Barra also met at the White House with Trump's senior economic adviser Larry Kudlow, in what officials said was a previously scheduled meeting.

Trump's aggressive trade policies have been aimed specifically at saving US manufacturing jobs, including the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, which took aim at rules governing auto trade to favour the US industry.

Still, GM will shutter three North American auto assembly plants next year: the Oshawa plant in Ontario, Canada; Hamtramck in Detroit, Michigan and Lordstown in Warren, Ohio.

In addition, GM will close two US propulsion plants -- which produce batteries and transmissions -- in Baltimore, Maryland and Warren, Michigan, as well two unidentified plants outside of North America.&nbsp;

The company already had announced plans to cease operations at its Gunsan, South Korea plant.

While the company said in its quarterly earnings late last month that it saw costs jump by $400 million due to Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum, a spokeswoman said the latest decisions "are not related to any recent trade or tariff decisions."

'Deep disappointment'

Senator Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat, lambasted GM's move as "corporate greed at its worst" and also took a swipe at the 2017 tax cut favored by Trump which was touted as a jobs winner.

"The company reaped a massive tax break from last year's GOP tax bill and failed to invest that money in American jobs," Brown said on Twitter.

In Canada, Prime Minster Justin Trudeau expressed "deep disappointment" with the plant closure.

Workers at the Ontario plant staged a wildcat strike to protest the closure.

The job cuts will include a 25 per cent reduction in executive-level employees to "streamline decision making," the company said.

According to reports, the five North American plants concerned employ nearly 7,000, including 3,000 workers in the Ontario plant.

GM shares jumped after the announcement, closing up 4.8 per cent on the day. Analysts were generally upbeat about the news.

"In contrast to times past, General Motors under CEO Mary Barra is trying to get ahead of a potential crisis by making cuts now," Michelle Krebs of Autotrader said in a client note.

While GM has been increasing its focus on highly popular trucks and SUVs, the company said it would also prioritize investment in "next-generation battery-electric architectures."

In an investor call, Barra said some GM cars would no longer be available in North America, including the Chevrolet Cruze.

'Slap in the face'

UAW, the autoworkers union, blasted GM's decision, saying the company was just looking for cheaper workers and vowed to fight back.

"This callous decision by GM to reduce or cease operations in American plants, while opening or increasing production in Mexico and China plants for sales to American consumers, is, in its implementation, profoundly damaging to our American workforce," said UAW vice president Terry Dittes.

China has become an increasingly important market for the automaker and in the first nine months of 2018, it sold 2.7 million cars in China compared to 2.6 million in all of North America.

However, spokeswoman Julie Huston-Rough denied the charge, telling AFP that "these products will not be manufactured in other locations for the North American market."

She also said the company remains committed to its facilities in Ohio, despite the closure of the Lordstown plant, with six other locations and 4,000 employees, as well as hundreds of suppliers and dealers.

Jerry Dias, president of Unifor, the Canadian labour union, said he "will vigorously fight again to maintain these good-paying auto jobs."

Huston-Rough said the job cuts will be accomplished through "a combination of retirements, layoffs and work relocations."

In a massive restructuring, US auto giant General Motors announced Monday it will cut 15 per cent of its workforce to save $6 billion and adapt to "changing market conditions.

In a massive restructuring, US auto giant General Motors announced Monday it will cut 15 per cent of its workforce to save $6 billion and adapt to "changing market conditions." The moves include shuttering seven plants worldwide as the company responds to changing customer preferences and focuses on popular trucks and SUVs and increasingly on electric models. Wall Street cheered the actions, while US and Canadian leaders expressed outrage. The closures also drew sharp criticism from the US and Canadian labour union representing GM workers, which accused the company of shifting production overseas at the expense of North American workers. The job cuts from GM's current 180,000-strong work force will be particularly stinging in politically crucial areas of Ohio and Michigan, a region US President Donald Trump has promised to revive. "The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement. "We recognize the need to stay in front of changing market conditions and customer preferences to position our company for long-term success." Trump expressed dismay at the plan and said he was "very tough" with Barra when they discussed the reorganization. "I spoke with her when I heard they were closing and I said, 'You know, this country has done a lot for General Motors. You better get back in there soon,'" he told reporters at the White House. "They better put something else in." Barra also met at the White House with Trump's senior economic adviser Larry Kudlow, in what officials said was a previously scheduled meeting. Trump's aggressive trade policies have been aimed specifically at saving US manufacturing jobs, including the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, which took aim at rules governing auto trade to favour the US industry. Still, GM will shutter three North American auto assembly plants next year: the Oshawa plant in Ontario, Canada; Hamtramck in Detroit, Michigan and Lordstown in Warren, Ohio. In addition, GM will close two US propulsion plants -- which produce batteries and transmissions -- in Baltimore, Maryland and Warren, Michigan, as well two unidentified plants outside of North America. The company already had announced plans to cease operations at its Gunsan, South Korea plant. While the company said in its quarterly earnings late last month that it saw costs jump by $400 million due to Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum, a spokeswoman said the latest decisions "are not related to any recent trade or tariff decisions." 'Deep disappointment' Senator Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat, lambasted GM's move as "corporate greed at its worst" and also took a swipe at the 2017 tax cut favored by Trump which was touted as a jobs winner. "The company reaped a massive tax break from last year's GOP tax bill and failed to invest that money in American jobs," Brown said on Twitter. In Canada, Prime Minster Justin Trudeau expressed "deep disappointment" with the plant closure. Workers at the Ontario plant staged a wildcat strike to protest the closure. The job cuts will include a 25 per cent reduction in executive-level employees to "streamline decision making," the company said. According to reports, the five North American plants concerned employ nearly 7,000, including 3,000 workers in the Ontario plant. GM shares jumped after the announcement, closing up 4.8 per cent on the day. Analysts were generally upbeat about the news. "In contrast to times past, General Motors under CEO Mary Barra is trying to get ahead of a potential crisis by making cuts now," Michelle Krebs of Autotrader said in a client note. While GM has been increasing its focus on highly popular trucks and SUVs, the company said it would also prioritize investment in "next-generation battery-electric architectures." In an investor call, Barra said some GM cars would no longer be available in North America, including the Chevrolet Cruze. 'Slap in the face' UAW, the autoworkers union, blasted GM's decision, saying the company was just looking for cheaper workers and vowed to fight back. "This callous decision by GM to reduce or cease operations in American plants, while opening or increasing production in Mexico and China plants for sales to American consumers, is, in its implementation, profoundly damaging to our American workforce," said UAW vice president Terry Dittes. China has become an increasingly important market for the automaker and in the first nine months of 2018, it sold 2.7 million cars in China compared to 2.6 million in all of North America. However, spokeswoman Julie Huston-Rough denied the charge, telling AFP that "these products will not be manufactured in other locations for the North American market." She also said the company remains committed to its facilities in Ohio, despite the closure of the Lordstown plant, with six other locations and 4,000 employees, as well as hundreds of suppliers and dealers. Jerry Dias, president of Unifor, the Canadian labour union, said he "will vigorously fight again to maintain these good-paying auto jobs." Huston-Rough said the job cuts will be accomplished through "a combination of retirements, layoffs and work relocations."

General Motors shuttering plants, cutting 15% of workforce

General Motors is expected to announce on Monday the closure of a factory in the Canadian city of Oshawa, putting almost 3,000 jobs at risk, Canadian channel CTV reported.

The decision is linked to the American automaker's plans for a comprehensive global restructuring, the channel reported Sunday, citing multiple anonymous sources.

The plant in Oshawa, about 60 kilometers (40 miles) northeast of Toronto, was built in 1953, according to the manufacturer's website.

It currently employs approximately 2,800 people and assembles Chevrolet and GMC pickups as well as Chevrolet Impala and Cadillac XTS sedans.

"I'm hoping it's just a rumor," Oshawa Mayor John Henry said. "Until we hear something, we don't know."

GM has three other sites in the province of Ontario. It is unclear whether they will also be affected.

Last month, the company announced plans to reduce its workforce across North America to save money through voluntary redundancies, and did not rule out the possibility of layoffs.

The plans stand to affect 50,000 employees across the US, Canada and Mexico. About 18,000 of them, or 36 per cent of the workforce, are eligible for voluntary redundancy.

GM's earnings for the quarter ending September 30 were $2.5 billion, eclipsing expectations in the latest quarter, despite the impact of tariffs and slipping sales volume.

General Motors is expected to announce on Monday the closure of a factory in the Canadian city of Oshawa, putting almost 3,000 jobs at risk, Canadian channel CTV reported.

General Motors is expected to announce on Monday the closure of a factory in the Canadian city of Oshawa, putting almost 3,000 jobs at risk, Canadian channel CTV reported. The decision is linked to the American automaker's plans for a comprehensive global restructuring, the channel reported Sunday, citing multiple anonymous sources. The plant in Oshawa, about 60 kilometers (40 miles) northeast of Toronto, was built in 1953, according to the manufacturer's website. It currently employs approximately 2,800 people and assembles Chevrolet and GMC pickups as well as Chevrolet Impala and Cadillac XTS sedans. "I'm hoping it's just a rumor," Oshawa Mayor John Henry said. "Until we hear something, we don't know." GM has three other sites in the province of Ontario. It is unclear whether they will also be affected. Last month, the company announced plans to reduce its workforce across North America to save money through voluntary redundancies, and did not rule out the possibility of layoffs. The plans stand to affect 50,000 employees across the US, Canada and Mexico. About 18,000 of them, or 36 per cent of the workforce, are eligible for voluntary redundancy. GM's earnings for the quarter ending September 30 were $2.5 billion, eclipsing expectations in the latest quarter, despite the impact of tariffs and slipping sales volume.

General Motors to close Canadian factory, putting 3000 jobs at risk: Report

In a massive restructuring, auto giant General Motors announced Monday it would cut 15 per cent of its workforce to save $6 billion and adapt to "changing market conditions."

The moves include shuttering three North American auto assembly plants next year: the Oshawa plan in Ontario, Canada; Hamtramck in Detroit, Michigan and Lordstown in Warren, Ohio.

In addition, it will close propulsion plants in Baltimore, Maryland and Warren, Michigan, and two more plants outside of North America.

GM has been increasing its focus on highly popular trucks and SUVs and "now intends to prioritize future vehicle investments in its next-generation battery-electric architectures."

"The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement.

"We recognize the need to stay in front of changing market conditions and customer preferences to position our company for long-term success."

The job cuts from the 180,000 GM workers will included a 25 per cent reduction in executive-level employees to "streamline decision making." The Canadian plant employs about 3,000 workers.

GM already had announced plans to cease operations at its Gunsan, Korea plant.

Trading in GM shares was halted just before the announcement. Once it restarted 20 minutes later, prices jumped and continued rising, showing a gain of nearly six per cent to $37.95.

In a massive restructuring, auto giant General Motors announced Monday it would cut 15 per cent of its workforce to save $6 billion and adapt to "changing market conditions.

In a massive restructuring, auto giant General Motors announced Monday it would cut 15 per cent of its workforce to save $6 billion and adapt to "changing market conditions." The moves include shuttering three North American auto assembly plants next year: the Oshawa plan in Ontario, Canada; Hamtramck in Detroit, Michigan and Lordstown in Warren, Ohio. In addition, it will close propulsion plants in Baltimore, Maryland and Warren, Michigan, and two more plants outside of North America. GM has been increasing its focus on highly popular trucks and SUVs and "now intends to prioritize future vehicle investments in its next-generation battery-electric architectures." "The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement. "We recognize the need to stay in front of changing market conditions and customer preferences to position our company for long-term success." The job cuts from the 180,000 GM workers will included a 25 per cent reduction in executive-level employees to "streamline decision making." The Canadian plant employs about 3,000 workers. GM already had announced plans to cease operations at its Gunsan, Korea plant. Trading in GM shares was halted just before the announcement. Once it restarted 20 minutes later, prices jumped and continued rising, showing a gain of nearly six per cent to $37.95.

General Motors says cutting 15% of workforce to save $6 billion

General Motors and Honda have joined forces with the tech firm Cruise to develop autonomous vehicles as the race to market self-driving cars continues, the companies announced Wednesday.

"This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda's relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise," GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement.

General Motors and Honda have joined forces with the tech firm Cruise to develop autonomous vehicles as the race to market self-driving cars continues, the companies announced Wednesday.

General Motors and Honda have joined forces with the tech firm Cruise to develop autonomous vehicles as the race to market self-driving cars continues, the companies announced Wednesday. "This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda's relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise," GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement.

General Motors, Cruise announce Honda partnership to develop autonomous vehicles

General Motors Co said on Wednesday Dhivya Suryadevara, currently vice president of corporate finance, will succeed Chuck Stevens on Sept. 1 as Chief Financial Officer of the No. 1 US automaker. 
 
Suryadevara, 39, has played an integral role in some significant deals GM has made as it has restructured operations over the past several years, including the divestiture of the company's European arm Opel and the acquisition of self-driving vehicle startup Cruise. She played a role in securing earlier this month a $2.25 billion investment in GM Cruise by Japanese tech giant SoftBank Group Corp, GM said in a statement. 
 
During her 13 years with the Detroit-based company, Suryadevara helped achieve ratings upgrades from all three credit ratings agencies, completed $2 billion in notes issuance to fund discretionary pension contributions and upsized and renewed GM's $14.5 billion revolving credit facility, the company said. 
 
She was named vice president, corporate finance, in July 2017, a job that included overseeing investor relations. 
 
Stevens will remain with the company as an adviser until his retirement in March, the company said. Stevens has worked at GM for 40 years and became CFO in January 2014.

&nbsp;

Dhivya Suryadevara, 39, has played an integral role in some significant deals GM has made as it has restructured operations over the past several years

General Motors Co said on Wednesday Dhivya Suryadevara, currently vice president of corporate finance, will succeed Chuck Stevens on Sept. 1 as Chief Financial Officer of the No. 1 US automaker. Suryadevara, 39, has played an integral role in some significant deals GM has made as it has restructured operations over the past several years, including the divestiture of the company's European arm Opel and the acquisition of self-driving vehicle startup Cruise. She played a role in securing earlier this month a $2.25 billion investment in GM Cruise by Japanese tech giant SoftBank Group Corp, GM said in a statement. During her 13 years with the Detroit-based company, Suryadevara helped achieve ratings upgrades from all three credit ratings agencies, completed $2 billion in notes issuance to fund discretionary pension contributions and upsized and renewed GM's $14.5 billion revolving credit facility, the company said. She was named vice president, corporate finance, in July 2017, a job that included overseeing investor relations. Stevens will remain with the company as an adviser until his retirement in March, the company said. Stevens has worked at GM for 40 years and became CFO in January 2014.

New CFO of General Motors is 39-year-old Indian-origin woman

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Trump studying new auto tariffs after General Motors announces job cuts

News brief: Big stories of the day

After it announces job cuts, Trump asks General Motors to stop making cars in China