Wednesday, December 18, 2013

SOTU December 18, 2013

December 18, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• Reminder: UAW Legal Services will end Dec. 31 so this is your last opportunity to avail yourself of their assistance free of charge. Services include creating wills and trusts or executors of estates. There are 3 area offices: Lake St. Louis (636-561-2057); St. Ann (314-291-6868); Sunset Hills (800-582-6494). You can also go online for more information at www.uawlsp.com.
• From the Community Services Commiteee: A big thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s Adopt A Child program. This is arguably the biggest event we have during the year. A total of 152 needy children were “adopted” this year. Working in concert with local United Way personnel, all gifts were delivered by last Friday. From adopting children to buying baked goods or raffle tickets, virtually the entire plant was involved in making this a great success. A conservative estimate of the dollar amount of support for this program is $20,000! So feel good about what you’ve done to brighten Christmas for those less fortunate than us. Thanks again!
• This Friday, Dec. 20 is a VR blackout day and a holiday pay qualifying day.

• Yahoo recently identified the top 15 new vehicles to watch for next year. Number 5 on the list is our Chevrolet Colorado. Here’s what they had to say: “The combination of a stagnant midsize segment and the fact that many truck buyers want to buy domestic leaves Chevy in a position to strike while the iron is hot with its all-new Colorado. This truck's good looks, three powertrain options (including a turbodiesel for 2016) and three body configurations won't hurt, either. If there was ever a sure thing in truck sales, this appears to be it.”
• From Reuters: A top UAW official said the union wants to eliminate the two-tier wage system that pays new automotive workers at a lower rate than veterans. Norwood Jewell, nominated to serve as one of three vice presidents when the union meets next June to ratify its new leaders, said on Monday that the UAW wants to dump the two-tier scale that pays entry-level hires at slightly more than half the rate of veteran workers. "The international executive board hates two-tiers," he told reporters at a General Motors Co plant in Flint, Mich. Jewell is currently director of the region that includes the GM plant. "We didn't do two tiers because it's a wonderful thing," he added, saying they were a "financial unfortunate" caused by the weak industry in 2007. "We hate them. We intend to eliminate them over time." About 16 percent of GM's 51,500 hourly U.S. employees are second-tier workers, while 19 percent of Ford's 46,500 hourly workers are paid at that level. About a quarter of Chrysler's 32,000 hourly workers are entry-level. Jewell also said any move to raise union dues would be decided by the membership at the convention next June.
• From Automotive News: Chevrolet's redesigned Colorado debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show amid plenty of anticipation -- and no small amount of skepticism. Hasn't the market already returned its verdict on small pickups? There's a reason, the pundits say, that sales have withered to one-quarter of their peak more than a decade ago: Buyers can get what they need from full-sized trucks. But General Motors believes it was automakers, not customers, who turned their backs on the segment by letting small trucks languish over the past decade. In a rare divergence in truck strategy among Detroit 3 rivals, GM is betting that it can revive the segment -- and take on the market-leading Toyota Tacoma -- with its 2015 mid-sized Colorado. The GMC Canyon is expected to debut at the Detroit auto show in January. "This is a white space for us," GM North America President Mark Reuss said. "There's some risk. But I love it because there's some risk. I think there's some great reward here."
Here are three ingredients that would help make that risk pay off:
1. Sporty sheet metal - Reaction at the show suggests Chevy has checked this box with the sort of stylish, rugged-looking pickup that has been missing from the market for years. By the time the Detroit 3 phased out small pickups, the Ford Ranger, Dodge Dakota, Colorado and Canyon had grown stale from years of underinvestment. The Tacoma is long in the tooth, too.
2. Pricing daylight - Price overlap with full-sized trucks is the reason cited most often for the demise of the small-pickup segment. Industry analysts and dealers say Chevy needs a consistent price gap, of at least $5,000 on a trim-level to trim-level basis, between the Colorado and full-sized pickups.
3. 30 mpg - Small pickups never have offered great fuel savings relative to big trucks. Even the Tacoma's estimated highway fuel economy rating on its base 2.7-liter four-cylinder model is only 25 mpg. A highway fuel economy rating of 30 mpg would be a marketable number that puts some meaningful distance between the Colorado and full-sized pickups.
• The all-new, high-tech Small Block 6.2L V8 powering the 2014 Corvette Stingray and the 2.0L turbo diesel for the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze are among Ward’s 10 Best Engines. WardsAuto reviewed 44 engines from 16 automakers in this year’s competition, which looked at power, fuel efficiency, new technology, refinement and compared it with data for similar engines. The all-new LT1 Small Block technologies contribute to making the new Corvette the quickest, most powerful and most fuel-efficient standard Corvette ever.
The engine delivers an SAE-certified 460 horsepower helping propel the car to a 0-60 time in 3.8 seconds while offering 29 EPA estimated mpg highway. The 2.0L turbo-diesel delivers an SAE-certified 151 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. Notable is the engine’s high torque level of 250 lb-ft from 1750 - 3000 rpm. The rich torque provides for a sustained feeling of power on demand at almost all speeds – particularly when passing or entering a freeway onramp. The 2014 Cruze Turbo Diesel engine delivers a segment leading EPA-estimated 46 MPG on the highway and range of 717 highway miles on one tank of fuel, based on fuel tank capacity and EPA estimates. That is better than any non-hybrid passenger car in America.

Friday, December 13, 2013

State of the Union December 13, 2013

December 13, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

From Chairman Mike Bullock: There is no truth to the rumor that we will be working more than 10 hour shifts today or more than 8 hours Saturday. I have not and would not agree to do this.

Reminder: UAW Legal Services will end Dec. 31 so this is your last opportunity to avail yourself of their assistance free of charge. Services include creating wills and trusts or executors of estates. There are 3 area offices: Lake St. Louis (636-561-2057); St. Ann (314-291-6868); Sunset Hills (800-582-6494). You can also go online for more information at www.uawlsp.com.

From the Detroit Free Press: General Motors has chosen to go bumper-to-bumper with Toyota for what’s left of a compact pickup market Ford and Chrysler have abandoned for the fatter profits of more massive trucks. Ford no longer makes its Ranger for North America and Chrysler’s Ram brand has shelved plans for a successor to the Dakota. “I can’t believe it. It’s wild. I’m loving it,” said Mark Reuss, GM North America president, with the excitement of a linebacker who just scooped up a fumble and is end zone bound.

Unlike full-size trucks, of which Americans will buy about 1.9 million this year, compact pickups are almost a niche market on pace to sell about 225,000 this year. Dominating the market is the Toyota Tacoma, which has sold 146,724 through November. “We have this diamond — a 150,000-unit annually pickup truck,” and it sells with zero incentives, said Bob Carter, Toyota senior vice president of automotive operations. “Our business hasn’t declined. It’s just that (nearly) everybody has pulled out.” The closest competitor is the Nissan Frontier, with less than 58,000 U.S. sales this year through November. Honda has sold 16,160 Ridgelines.

“The question is whether the segment will continue to be squeezed out by the advances in full-size trucks,” said Reid Bigland, head of Ram trucks. “Or is it a major growth segment?” Chrysler, so far, is betting the segment will shrink. But Jeep chief Mike Manley would love to see the return of a Jeep pickup. “Jeep has a history of pickups. I’m a fan of a pickup,” Manley said. “It’s something a number of people would like to see.” But not enough for Chrysler’s top management to approve a program.

Ford sells the Ranger everywhere but North America. Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of the Americas, said Ford is not re-evaluating its decision to stop selling the Ranger in the U.S. “With our fuel-efficient F-150 we can meet demand,” he said. “We think our strategy is working.” (continued on back)

GM sees an opportunity. Reuss recognizes the risk, but is betting new product will stimulate interest and sales. GM was unveiled a new Chevrolet Colorado last month at the Los Angeles auto show. Sometime in the next year or so it likely will add a ZR2 off-road version. Reuss said there is a lot of opportunity for special editions and accessories. The GMC Canyon, which has not been revealed yet, looks more like a full-size truck, Reuss said. Pricing of the small trucks’ top trim levels will overlap with entry-level full-size trucks. But Reuss said the small truck buyer appreciates its smaller dimensions and driving something almost 1,000 pounds lighter than a Chevy Silverado. Making a smaller, lighter and more fuel-efficient truck also helps GM bring down its corporate average fuel economy to meet regulations on the horizon, Reuss said.

Toyota welcomes the competition. “I actually believe that the Colorado creates more Tacoma business,” Carter said. “I really think some energy into the market is going to help.” The Tacoma was refreshed last year. “I would rather be a little smaller share of a growing segment than a big fat share of a declining segment,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division general manager. Chrysler executives beg to differ. “The vision of a small pickup is easy to understand from a consumer point of view. It’s just hard to execute given how competitive full-size pickups have become,” Bigland said. Resources will focus instead on the full-size Ram lineup. Bigland said the dilemma is that to make a small truck distinctive, it would need to be priced below $20,000 and get more than 30 m.p.g. “When we have half-ton trucks that can get 27 miles to the gallon and be had for the low $20,000s, we are struggling with where that would fit,” Bigland said. “We need to make sure we’re investing in the places where we’re going to get the best return.”

From Automotive News: Despite slow sales, Honda is not giving up on the Ridgeline pickup. Honda Motor Co. said today it will launch an all-new second generation of the Ridgeline within two years. The vehicle will be new from the wheels up and built in Honda’s Lincoln, Ala., plant, home of the current model. Honda plans to end production of the first-generation Ridgeline in June, leaving a gap in production. Depending on demand for the current model, dealers may run out of Ridgelines before the new one is available. But Honda spokesman Steve Kinkade said if that does happen, dealers will not be out of the truck for an extended period of time. Honda did not release any technical details of the new Ridgeline or indicate whether it would remain the same size as the current model. There’s also no word on whether it will continue to be based on the Odyssey minivan platform or get unique underpinnings. The Ridgeline, facing full-size truck competitors from Ram, Ford, GM, Toyota and Nissan, is the segment’s lowest volume seller. Through November, Honda has sold 16,160 Ridgelines, up about 29 percent over last year. The company recently introduced a special edition model for 2014. The U.S. market for smaller pickups may gather momentum after GM unveiled its Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups, said Karl Brauer, senior analyst at Kelley Blue Book. "It's likely Honda sees a potential second coming for the small/midsize truck segment," Brauer said in an e-mail. "And if you consider the potential for economic growth, along with lower gas prices, over the next few years they could be right. Between housing starts rising and more disposable income for 'lifestyle' activities and recreation the demand for compact trucks could grow substantially.

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

State of the Union December 10 2013

December 10, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

• From Chairman Mike Bullock: It has come to the attention of the Union that the Medical Department has been requiring some employees to give urine samples that were not required to do so by the contract. NO employees should give a urine sample without first speaking to their Union Representative or calling 636-327-2250. Any employees who have given a urine sample in the previous six months should contact their Union Representative.

All employees have the right to have their Union Representative present during any interviews with the Plant Doctor. The Union recommends that all employees have their Union Representative present for interviews with the Plant Doctor.

Your elected bargaining committee is participating in a 2 day SWE 2 workshop in the mezzanine. Every team leader and employee here at Wentzville Assembly Center may be going through this training eventually. By going through SWE 2 the committee was able to provide input in changes they wanted in the program before being rolled out to the membership. To clear up the major concern on the floor, your committee has not agreed to rotation. Rotation is voluntary at Wentzville Assembly Center. The language in our local contract says: “The Parties encourage and will support those teams that decide to rotate jobs voluntary. “ (Local Demand 106.)

In case you hadn’t heard, the US Government sold the last of their GM stock Monday. Here are President Barack Obama’s comments: "When I took office, the American auto industry -- the heartbeat of American manufacturing -- was on the verge of collapse. Two of the Big Three -- GM and Chrysler -- were on the brink of failure, threatening to take suppliers, distributors and entire communities down with them. In the midst of what was already the worst recession since the Great Depression, another one million Americans were in danger of losing their jobs.”
"As President, I refused to let that happen. I refused to walk away from American workers and an iconic American industry. But in exchange for rescuing and retooling GM and Chrysler with taxpayer dollars, we demanded responsibility and results. In 2011, we marked the end of an important chapter as Chrysler repaid every dime and more of what it owed the American taxpayers from the investment we made under my Administration's watch. Today, we're closing the book by selling the remaining shares of the federal government's investment in General Motors. GM has now repaid every taxpayer dollar my Administration committed to its rescue, plus billions invested by the previous Administration.”
"Less than five years later, each of the Big Three automakers is now strong enough to stand on its own. They're profitable for the first time in nearly a decade. The industry has added more than 372,000 new jobs -- its strongest growth since the 1990s. Thanks to the workers on our assembly lines, some of the most high-tech, fuel-efficient cars in the world are once again designed, engineered, and built right here in America – and the rest of the world is buying more of them than ever before.”
"When things looked darkest for our most iconic industry, we bet on what was true: the ingenuity and resilience of the proud, hardworking men and women who make this country strong. Today, that bet has paid off. The American auto industry is back. For our autoworkers and the communities that depend on them, the road we've taken these past five years has been a long and difficult one. But it's one we've traveled together. And as long as there's more work to do to restore opportunity and broad-based growth for all Americans, that's what we'll keep doing to reach the brighter days ahead."

A research study issued today by the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) suggests that the automotive bailout provided massive benefits to the U.S. economy and prevented a much more severe economic downturn. The study, “The Effect on the U.S. Economy of the Successful Restructuring of General Motors,” sought to evaluate the public benefits of government assistance to GM and Chrysler. Among the study’s findings:
  • The shutdown of GM and Chrysler would have reduced U.S. employment by 2.6 million jobs in 2009 and reduced U.S. personal income by $285 billion in 2009 and 2010.
  • The U.S. government saved or avoided the loss of $105.3 billion in transfer payments and the loss of personal and social insurance tax collections, far more than any anticipated shortfall in TARP investment returns.
  • The U.S. government bailout of General Motors spared 1.2 million jobs in 2009 and preserved $39.4 billion in personal and social insurance tax collections in 2009 and 2010.
  • Almost 600,000 existing GM and Chrysler retirees would have certainly seen their company pensions delayed and reduced and their retiree health benefits cancelled had GM and Chrysler closed permanently. The economic impact on the retiree states in the Midwest, Arizona and Florida would have been catastrophic.


While CAR projects that much of U.S. auto manufacturing employment would have recovered without U.S. government intervention by 2011 or sometime thereafter, there would have been a decided shift in the location of this employment to the southern portion of the United States resulting in severe effects for upper Midwest states such as Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.
“It is important to note, that these companies are now poised to operate profitably even at lower levels of production and sales, for years to come,” wrote CAR researchers Sean McAlinden and Debra Maranger Menk. “CAR is confident that in the years ahead, this peacetime intervention in the private sector by the U.S. government will be seen as one of the most successful in U.S. economic history.”

Friday, December 6, 2013

State of the Union December 6, 2013

December 6, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

• From Chairman Mike Bullock: It has come to the attention of the Union that the Medical Department has been requiring some employees to give urine samples that were not required to do so by the contract. NO employees should give a urine sample without first speaking to their Union Representative or calling 636-327-2250. Any employees who have given a urine sample in the previous six months should contact their Union Representative. All employees have the right to have their Union Representative present during any interviews with the Plant Doctor. The Union recommends that all employees have their Union Representative present for interviews with the Plant Doctor. On a different note, I want to remind everyone about the 2 events at the Union Hall Saturday. First, Santa is at the hall from noon to 2 pm for all your children and grandchildren. Second, the annual Christmas Celebration will kick off at 6:30 pm with dinner served at 7 pm along with music provided by Brother Ken Wikoff from 7 until midnight. And finally, don’t forget today’s annual Chassis Christmas Party after 1st shift at Maggie Malones (990 Wentzville Parkway).

• The annual Pre-Trim Bake Sale is Monday, Dec. 9 beginning at 8 am and continuing until they are sold out. It is located at the team center, column N-32. If you wish to donate baked goods you can drop them off at that team center Monday morning. All donations are appreciated. Proceeds go to support Adopt A Child.

Reminder: This is the last day to buy raffle tickets to support the Women’s Committee.
• November van sales remained steady, up 4.1% but down slightly from October. Here’s how the rest of the segment shook out:
  2013 2012 Change Share
Ford Econoline 10,145 8400 +20.8% 47.7%
GM 7,311 7021 +4.1% 34.3%
Mercedes Sprinter 2010 1630 +23.3% 9.4%
Nissan NV 990 1042 -5.0% 4.7%
Ram Promaster 828 ---- ---- 3.9%
Ford Transit Connect 2303 2853 -19.3% ----
Nissan NV200 621 ---- ---- ----


Field supplies as measured by days rose from 60 to 68. Overall net field stock was up 2200 units, with the biggest gains (1740) in cargo vans. Cutaways basically accounted for the rest of the build. Looking at midsize pickups, Toyota sold 12,601 Tacomas, up 2.7% while Nissan sold 6003 Frontiers, up 54.6%.

• UAW statement on the passing of Nelson Mandela: “The UAW deeply mourns the loss of Nelson Mandela, one of the most influential civil rights and social justice leaders of our time. Nelson Mandela demonstrated how commitment to core principles and social justice can change the world. His actions freed millions from the chains of racism. From his humble beginnings to his imprisonment for fighting against the apartheid system in South Africa, Nelson Mandela was an inspiration to the world. It was an incredible honor for the UAW, through the leadership of then-President Owen Bieber, to play a role in supporting Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists in the 1980s. President Bieber traveled to South Africa to support Mandela and other activists, and when Mandela toured the United States in 1990 after his release from prison, he insisted on celebrating with UAW Local 600 in Dearborn, Mich. During that trip, Mandela invited Bieber to be at his side during a rally at Tiger Stadium. Nelson Mandela will be missed by those who believe in civil and human rights for all people. The best way to honor his passing is to continue to work for his ideals. We are committed to doing so.”

General Motors has generated a lot of news the last few days. First, the US Government announced they will be selling their remaining GM shares by the end of the year. Then, CEO Dan Akerson said that GM will no longer sell Chevrolet vehicles (save the occasional Corvette) in Europe, leaving the continent to the established brands of Opel and Vauxhaull. Continuing, a report from IHS Automotive said GM would reduce production in South Korea by nearly 20% by 2015 (GM spokesman Park Hae-ho declined to comment). And finally, a report out of Australia said that GM was ending vehicle production there by 2016 (Ford announced in May that they would close their 2 assembly plants there by 2016). That would spell the end of Holden, supplier of the just-launched Chevrolet SS sedan. Once again, no comment from GM.

From Automotive News: Big tax breaks for many buyers of commercial vehicles are scheduled to expire at year end, so automakers and dealers are scrambling to get the word out to small businesses to buy now. The tax breaks, part of federal stimulus legislation spurred by the recession, dramatically front load the depreciation schedules for many large assets, particularly for vehicles of more than 6,000 pounds, such as heavy-duty pickups. Mitchell Dale, owner of McRee Ford in Dickinson, Texas, said one customer who runs a fleet of about 50 vehicles was scheduled to replace two pickups; instead, he bought seven. "He bought five additional vehicles so he could take advantage of the tax benefits" because his accountant told him to, Dale said. "It is clearly stimulating some business on the commercial side." The tax breaks available this year can mean first-year depreciation of as much as $46,000 on a $60,000 heavy-duty pickup if a customer takes delivery before Dec. 31. The extra depreciation can reduce business tax bills by lowering taxable income.

From the Columbia Daily Herald: United Auto Workers Local 1853 members ratified a new agreement with General Motors that includes adding about 400 jobs at the Spring Hill facility. UAW Local 1853 Chairman Mike Herron said the agreement was approved Wednesday by 63 percent of the membership. There will be 384 new jobs — in addition to the 1,800 jobs announced in August when GM officials revealed Spring Hill’s facility would produce two new vehicles by 2016. UAW and GM officials have been tight-lipped about which new vehicles would be made at the local plant. When those new jobs would be added remains unknown and is GM’s decision, Herron said. “When GM feels that the timing is right from the overall product portfolio strategy standpoint in terms of making the announcement to the public, they will go ahead and make the announcement of the specific products,” Herron said. “I’m not sure when it’s going to be. The specific product announcement, we hope, is forthcoming in the very near future.”

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

State of the Union December 3 2013

December 3, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

This Saturday, Dec. 7, is a big day at the Union Hall. First, from noon to 2 pm Santa Claus will be at the hall to meet with future members of the UAW. There will be hot dogs, popcorn and soda. Bring your children and grandchildren and don’t forget your cameras. Then the annual Christmas Celebration will be that evening. Doors open at 6:30 pm with dinner served at 7 pm. Snacks, beer and setups will be provided and there will be music by member Ken Wikoff from 7 pm to 11 pm. Make plans to share some fellowship with your Union brothers and sisters.

The Women’s Committee is selling raffle tickets to raise money for their many activities. First prize is a “Million Dollar Board” of lottery scratch-off tickets. Second prize is a $50 gas card and 3rd prize is a mystery basket. Tickets are $1 apiece or 6 for $5 and can be bought from any committee member. Drawing will be Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Christmas party at the Union Hall. Thanks for your support.

Three questions with UAW President Bob King:
Question: In Chattanooga, the UAW is making progress in talks with Volkswagen and its workers for a German-style works council. Can a German style works council really be an effective structure in the U.S.?
Answer: “I would say yes, it definitely can work … it is not that different than what we have bargained with the auto companies. Just look at all of the joint programs we have with management and leadership on quality and productivity and training. There are 13 or 14 areas of our agreement where we jointly run programs together.”

Q: Your approach with Nissan has been very different than at Volkswagen. You have enlisted community and global allies to put public pressure on Nissan. Do you believe that public pressure will lead to an organizing success?
A. “There has been a tremendous outpouring of support from all over the world … .I think the global pressure builds every day at Nissan to respect workers’ rights…I think that we will be successful.”

Q. As you get closer toward the end of your tenure, what do you hope your legacy will be as UAW president?
A. “You know, I ever really have thought about it in terms of legacy. I just thought about can we collectively move forward with the best possible wages, benefits and security for our membership. And I think we have been innovative and creative as a whole team.
We’ve won some significant victories organizing in the South where people say workers don’t want unions, and we’ve done gaming organizing and continued with higher organizing. As a result of the 2011 Big Three bargaining, the amount of income that will be generated for our membership is maybe greater than any contract we have negotiated in the past. . So I think we have moved the union forward in a number of areas, including organizing, political and bargaining.”

General Motors Co. dealers delivered 212,060 vehicles in the United States in November, up 14 percent versus a year ago and the highest November sales in six years. Retail sales were up 19 percent and fleet sales were down 3 percent. “November sales were strong at all four of our brands, and demand was robust for everything from cars to crossovers to the industry’s newest and best full-size pickups,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “The sheer number of award winning new models we have helped us grow faster than the industry for the second month in a row.” GM’s product momentum will continue unabated. For example, the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS, which is building availability, was recently named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, an Automobile Magazine “All Star” and one of Car and Driver’s 10 Best cars. Cadillac will also launch an all-new Escalade and the ELR in early 2014. In addition, Chevrolet and GMC are launching all-new heavy-duty pickups and large SUVs in the first quarter. Chevrolet also unveiled the Colorado, its new, highly acclaimed midsize pickup, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The Colorado goes on sale in the fall of 2014.
November Sales Highlights (vs. 2012)
o Chevrolet sales were up 13 percent and retail deliveries were up 20 percent.
o Sales of Chevrolet cars increased 19 percent, with Malibu up 41 percent, Volt up 26 percent, Impala up 20 percent and Camaro up 14 percent. Retail deliveries of the Cruze were up 39 percent and Impala more than doubled.
o The Chevrolet Cruze, Equinox and Volt had their best November sales ever.
o Sales of the Chevrolet Tahoe were up 23 percent, the Traverse was up 21 percent and the Silverado was up 12 percent.
o GMC sales were up 20 percent, with the Sierra up 22 percent and the Acadia crossover up 108 percent, which keeps it on track for its best year ever.
o Small business sales were up 38 percent, including a 76-percent increase in pickup deliveries. Commercial fleet deliveries increased 18 percent.
o Van sales came in at 7311, up 4.1% over last November
o Buick deliveries increased 13 percent and the brand is on track for its best year since 2005. November was Buick’s 19th consecutive month of year-over-year retail sales growth.
o Cadillac sales increased 11 percent and retail sales have grown in each of the past 18 months, driven by the success of the new XTS and ATS.

“We feel good about the direction of the economy and our own momentum,” McNeil said. “The economy is creating jobs and household wealth. Energy costs are dropping and credit is available and affordable. All of this bodes well for future growth.”

Here is what some auto industry observers are saying about the Colorado:
o Mark Phelan (Detroit Free Press): “The Colorado looks terrific, and its crew cab four-door model should offer more passenger space than many midsize sedans. If GM pairs those factors with good fuel economy and an attractive price, it could be onto something.”
o Edmunds.com senior analyst Michelle Krebs: “It’s probably not a huge market, but Toyota’s done extremely well with the Tacoma. The Colorado and Canyon are an interesting play. They could do well for GM….The pricing will be key. People are willing to pay more for well-equipped small cars today than in the past. That may be true for trucks, too.”
o IHS automotive analyst Stephanie Brinley: “The average pickup on the road today is more than 11 years old. A lot of people who have been out of the market since the recession may be willing to consider a smaller pickup.”

Tom Brune, President

Friday, November 8, 2013

State of the Union November 8, 2013

November 8, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

Monday, in honor of Veterans Day, we will be selling poppies at the entrances before 1st and 2nd shifts. Proceeds will be donated to the Wentzville VFW Post 5327. Thanks in advance for your support of our Veterans.

•Reminder: This Saturday, Nov. 9 is the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the inception of UAW Local 2250. Doors open at the Union Hall at 6:30 pm. Dinner will be served and music will be provided by Heath Walker with Tune in a Bucket Productions. Come out and enjoy an evening of fun with your Union brothers and sisters as we celebrate 30 years of Solidarity.

•Motor Trend announced yesterday that the 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan is its Car of the Year for 2014. “The all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS prevailed over one of the most competitive fields in recent memory because it best met our award’s key criteria. Our judges were particularly impressed by the CTS’s responsive powertrains and masterful balance of smooth ride and sporty handling,” said Motor Trend editor-in-chief Ed Loh. Motor Trend’s Car of the Year program is open to any all-new or substantially upgraded 2014 automobile. Rather than being compared against one another, contending vehicles are first put through Motor Trend’s full battery of performance tests to measure acceleration, braking, and limit handling. All contenders are then evaluated on three separate courses at a professional automotive test center before finalists are selected. Out of 22 contending 2014 models, Motor Trend’s judges picked seven Car of the Year finalists, in addition to the Cadillac CTS:
BMW 4 Series
Chevrolet Corvette
Jaguar F-Type
Kia Forte
Mazda3
Mazda6
Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Each finalist is then driven on a real-world road loop that provides a range of surfaces and traffic conditions to evaluate ride and handling, engine and transmission smoothness and responsiveness, wind and road noise, and ergonomics. After 10 full days of testing, driving and deliberating, Motor Trend selected the CTS as its Car of the Year. “The all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan delivers crafted design, thrilling performance and sophisticated technology,” said Bob Ferguson, General Motors’ senior vice president of Global Cadillac. “With Cadillac growing globally, driven by rising product credibility, the new CTS elevates the brand to a new level.”

•From the Detroit Free Press: The UAW’s influential Reuther Caucus has nominated Dennis Williams to be the union’s next president and chosen other members of its future leadership team. Williams, 60, has been the UAW’s secretary-treasurer since 2010 and served as a regional director based in Chicago for 10 years before that. He has negotiated with John Deere, Caterpillar and agricultural equipment-maker CNH. The Free Press first reported last month that Williams was the likely nominee. “This is very humbling,” Williams said Thursday. “I remember the days when I came home and I was on strike ... so this is very meaningful to me.” Williams is in line to replace Bob King, who at 67 is too old to serve another term under UAW bylaws. King said Williams has the right strategic skills and experience to carry the union forward. “I am extremely excited and proud of the UAW for picking Dennis to be the Reuther Caucus nominee,” King said. “Dennis was an integral part of the 2011 bargaining” with the Detroit Three. The Reuther Caucus also nominated Jimmy Settles, Cindy Estrada and Norwood Jewell to be vice president as well as Gary Casteel to succeed Williams as secretary-treasurer. Settles, 63, is head of the Ford department and is running for a third term. Estrada, 45, is running for a second term. Jewell, 56, is director of the UAW’s south-central Michigan region. Casteel is director of the UAW’s south region where he has led efforts to organize Nissan and Volkswagen workers in Tennessee and Alabama. The union announced Wednesday that Vice President General Holiefield decided he will retire in June after 40 years of service.

•From Automotive News: Tesla Motors Inc.'s Model S electric car has suffered its third fire in six weeks. The Tesla Motors Club Web site contains pictures and a story about another fire involving a Model S on Wednesday afternoon that a company spokeswoman confirmed. Tesla, whose shares fell 7.5 percent today to close at $139.77, said it has been in touch with the driver, who was not injured. "Our team is on its way to Tennessee to learn more about what happened in the accident," Tesla spokeswoman Elizabeth Jarvis-Shean said in a statement. "We will provide more information when we're able to do so."
The company said the fire was the result of an accident and was not a spontaneous event. The Tennessee Highway Patrol said the incident occurred on Interstate 24 in Smyrna around 1:30 pm. "It's possible that it ran over a piece of metal in the roadway," police dispatcher Kathy Bryant said. "There was extensive damage." On Tuesday, Tesla forecast a weaker-than-expected fourth-quarter profit and posted third-quarter Model S deliveries that disappointed some analysts. The first Model S fire occurred on Oct. 1 outside Seattle, when the car collided with a large piece of metal debris in the road that punched a hole through the armor plate protecting the battery pack. U.S. safety regulators at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration later said they found no evidence to indicate a vehicle defect. In a statement today, NHTSA said it will contact local authorities about the latest fire "to determine if there are vehicle safety implications that merit agency action." The second fire took place later in the month in Merida, Mexico, when according to reports a car drove through a roundabout, crashed through a concrete wall and hit a tree. After the first fire, Tesla CEO Elon Musk defended the safety performance of electric cars. "For consumers concerned about fire risk, there should be absolutely zero doubt that it is safer to power a car with a battery" than a conventional gas-powered vehicle, he said in a blog post. Company executives called that first fire a "highly uncommon occurrence," likely caused by a curved metal object falling off a semi-trailer and striking up into the underside of the car in a "pole-vault effect."

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

State of the Union November 5, 2013

November 5, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

This Saturday, Nov. 9 is the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the inception of UAW Local 2250. Doors open at the Union Hall at 6:30 pm. Dinner will be served and music will be provided by Heath Walker with Tune in a Bucket Productions. Come out and enjoy an evening of fun with your Union brothers and sisters as we celebrate 30 years of Solidarity. Also, the Education Committee is selling commemorative T-shirts this week in the cafeteria. Prices are $15, with 2X and larger going for $20.

Tickets are still for sale from Community Services Committee, with the raffle proceeds going to supplement the upcoming Adopt A Child program. First place is an Amish Quilt. Second place is at $100 QT gas card. Third place is 2 Blues tickets to the Dec. 7 game. Tickets are $1 apiece or 6 for $5 and can be purchased from any committee member. Drawing will be held this Thursday, Nov. 7 at 10:30 am in the cafeteria. Thanks in advance for your support.

October was a decent month for van sales at 7552, up 14.9%. In fact it was the best October since 2008. As you may know, October is typically one of our slower months. For example, in 2005, we set an all-time van sales record of 162,350. But October that year was the only month to come in under 10,000. Let’s take a look at how the rest of the van segment fared:
  • 2013 2012 Change Share
  • Ford Econoline 9508 8082 +17.6% 46.0%
  • GM 7552 6575 +14.9% 36.5%
  • Mercedes Sprinter 2038 1666 +22.3% 9.9%
  • Nissan NV 1006 770 +30.6% 4.9%
  • Ram Promaster 570 --- --- 2.8%
  • Ford Transit connect 3169 2669 +18.7% ---
  • Nissan NV200 639 --- --- ---


You’ll notice a new entry – the Ram Promaster. This is the full size van Chrysler just launched in Mexico based on a Fiat model and one that bears watching as another direct competitor. Regarding field supplies, both overall supplies and days in the field were up from September. Specifically, net field stock was up 3268 units, equal to 60 days supply based on the daily sales rate. All categories were up, with cargo vans leading the way, rising over 2200 units.

What about midsize pickups? Toyota sold 12,351 Tacomas in October, up 1.3%. Nissan sold 5242 Frontiers, up a healthy 71.8%.

From Automotive News: Ford is recalling 3,095 F-series ambulances because of a potential defect that might cause the vehicles to stall and not restart for at least an hour. The recall affects 2011-12 ambulances with 6.7-liter diesel engines, including Super Duty F-350 and F-450 trucks. The ambulances were built at the Kentucky Truck Plant from Feb. 22, 2010, to Oct. 19, 2012. Ford notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Oct. 28 that a defective exhaust gas temperature sensor might cause some ambulances to stop and not be restarted for the minimum of one hour.

Much is being written and said about the restructuring of the auto industry that basically began 5 years ago. Apparently we had a lot more saviors than we realized. And of course, that would include one presidential candidate Mitt Romney, who tried to take credit during last year’s campaign. Not content just to fade away, Mr. Romney has written a book about his failed campaign titled, “Double Down: Game Change 2012”. The book reveals new details of the November 2008 New York Times op-ed in which Romney called for a managed bankruptcy restructuring of Detroit’s automakers that would “propel newly competitive and viable automakers, rather than seal their fate with a bailout check.” Romney wrote the op-ed on his BlackBerry on the beach in front of his new $12 million home in La Jolla, Calif. The piece, originally offered to and rejected by the Wall Street Journal, was a source of much consternation for Romney as he sought the presidency. According to the book, Romney thought reaction to his 2008 “Let Detroit Go Bankrupt” op-ed piece could have sunk his chances at winning the Republican nomination for president in 2012. “Guys, guys, this could be it,” he told aides. “This could sink me.” Romney came under scrutiny throughout the Michigan primary campaign over the op-ed. “That headline is killing me,” he told an adviser.

Another sub-plot of that time was a rumored merger between GM and Chrysler. Here is what former GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said recently about that plan: “Fritz Henderson and I were very enthusiastic about acquiring Chrysler from Cerberus. We could have put together a dynamite company and saved an unbelievable amount of money. We might have avoided Chapter 11 if we had done that. The operating people were all for it because we could see all the savings. Fritz and the finance guys worked it out. We figured in the first year alone we'd have saved $7 billion. There were some on the GM board who said: "We're doubling down on a UAW-controlled industry. We don't even want to look at the numbers." It was an emotion-driven decision that "no, we are not going to increase the risk by buying into another UAW-controlled company." I think it was a huge missed opportunity. It would be one superpowerful company today.”

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Friday, November 1, 2013

State of the Union November 1, 2013

November 1, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

**IMPORTANT CORRECTION NOTICE**


From the Benefits Department and Chairman Mike Bullock:
We received a letter from the National Benefit Center yesterday. This letter affects all Entry Level employees and is being sent to all Entry Level Employees at their address of record. We previously reported what was told to us by the National parties at the Annual Benefits Conference in September. At that time we were told that all seniority Entry Level employees would be getting complete Health Care coverage, including Dental and Vision, after their 91stday. It remains correct that seniority Entry Level employees will get health care on their 91st day:
“Effective January 1, 2014, the eligibility waiting period will change to 90-days, with health care medical coverage commencing on the 91st calendar day of Entry Level employment. This change not only significantly reduces the health care waiting period for Entry Level employees but coverage could become effective any day of the week, depending upon the date of hire.”
The letter we received changes what we were told and what we informed our membership concerning Dental and Vision. Page 2 states:
“Entry Level employees eligibility for dental and vision coverage remains as currently provided in the Program, with dental coverage commencing upon attaining three years seniority and vision coverage commencing upon attaining three years seniority for an examination only, and five years seniority for full vision coverage.”
We regret any inconvenience this may have caused our membership. When we report what we have learned and were informed of at the conferences we attend, we assume that this is what will be distributed and relayed to our membership by the National Parties. In this instance it was not. We know what we were told and are extremely disappointed that what we informed our membership, based on what we were told at the conference, was incorrect.

General Motors Co. dealers delivered 226,402 vehicles in the United States in October, up 16 percent versus a year ago. Retail sales were also up 16 percent and fleet sales were up 14 percent.
“Chevrolet, Cadillac and Buick-GMC all performed well in the month, and the sales tempo really picked up after the government shutdown ended,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “We are particularly pleased with our truck momentum. Chevrolet and GMC have the newest and best light duty trucks, sales are accelerating and we are gearing up for the second, third and fourth phases of our strategic truck plan.”
This month, the premium Chevrolet Silverado High Country and GMC Sierra Denali will hit showrooms, followed by a redesigned range of heavy-duty pickups in the first quarter of 2014. All-new Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac full-size SUVs also arrive in the first quarter, and later in the year, GM will introduce clean-sheet redesigns of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickups.

October Sales Highlights (vs. 2012)
  • Buick total sales increased 31 percent and retail sales were up 25 percent for the 18th consecutive month of year-over-year growth. Regal sales increased 47 percent.
  • Cadillac’s sales increased 10 percent and have grown in each of the last 13 months thanks to the all-new XTS and ATS. In addition, the SRX is on track for its best year ever. Retail sales were up 12 percent for the brand and more than 60 percent of buyers did not trade in a Cadillac.
  • GMC was up 16 percent. The Terrain had its best October sales ever.
  • Chevrolet was up 15 percent. Thirteen nameplates posted double-digit increases, including every SUV and crossover nameplate.
  • Retail sales of Chevrolet passenger cars were up 32 percent. Cruze had its best-ever October retail sales. Impala retail deliveries nearly doubled and Malibu retail sales increased 58 percent.
  • Full size van sales were up 14.9 percent, coming in at 7552.

Deliveries of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra were up 10 percent and 13 percent, respectively.
Sales of the new 2014 light duty Silverado and Sierra increased 62 percent from September 2013. They accounted for about 76 percent of GM’s light duty deliveries, per plan. Strong calendar-year-to-date sales have helped Chevrolet and GMC earn a 30 percent share of light-duty pickups priced $40,000 or above. That is up 5 percentage points versus 2012.

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

State of the Union October 30, 2013

October 30, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

The Community Services Committee is having a raffle with the proceeds going to supplement the upcoming Adopt A Child program. First place is an Amish Quilt. Second place is at $100 QT gas card. Third place is 2 Blues tickets to the Dec. 7 game. Tickets are $1 apiece or 6 for $5 and can be purchased from any committee member. Drawing will be held next Thursday, Nov. 7 at 10:30 am in the cafeteria. Thanks in advance for your support.

GM announced financial results for the 3rd quarter this morning. A summary of the report is on the back, but we will cut to the chase: GM North America (the driver of our profit sharing payout) earned $2.2 billion, up from $1.7 billion last year. That brings the cumulative total for profit sharing this year to $5500.

The flu shot drawing was held yesterday. Good news – everyone who submitted an entry will receive a flu shot. A schedule for distributing the shots is being put together and will be communicated as soon as it is complete.

If you still need to buy Halloween candy, there are many good Union made options from our sisters and brothers in the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union (BCTGM), United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) and United Farm Workers of America (UFW). They make dozens of tasty treats including favorites such as Hershey Kisses, Clark Bar, Kit Kat, Jolly Rancher, Baby Ruth, Butterfinger and many, many more.

The November schedule is out. Beginning Monday, Nov. 18, the schedule goes from 544/8 hours to 652/9.6 hours for the remainder of the month (as always, this is subject to change). Once again, Wednesday, Nov. 27 is a scheduled day off, creating a 5-day weekend around Thanksgiving. Looking ahead, it has been confirmed that there will be extra downtime after the Christmas break, with production scheduled to resume on Monday, Jan. 13.

Chrysler also reported their 3rd quarter financial results today. Net income rose to $464 million in the third quarter as strong sales of pickups and SUVs offset delays in launching the 2014 Jeep Cherokee. The third-quarter profit was up 22 percent from the $381 million profit it posted during the same quarter of 2012, Chrysler said. It was Chrysler's ninth consecutive quarterly profit. The automaker's U.S. sales rose 8 percent to 603,000 vehicles in the quarter, compared to an industry average of 12 percent. Third-quarter revenue grew 13.5 percent to $17.6 billion. Revenue for the third quarter of 2012 was $15.5 billion.
General Motors Co. today announced third quarter net income to common stockholders of $0.7 billion or $0.45 per fully diluted share, down from $1.5 billion or $0.89 per fully diluted share a year ago. Improvement in operating performance during the quarter was more than offset by a net loss from special items and incremental tax expense. Net income to common includes a net loss from special items of $0.9 billion or $0.51 per fully diluted share, including $0.8 billion related to the repurchase of 120 million shares of Preferred Series A Stock. Results were also impacted by incremental tax expense of $0.5 billion or $0.29 per fully diluted share in the quarter compared to the third quarter of 2012.
Net revenue during the quarter was $39.0 billion compared to $37.6 billion in the third quarter of 2012. Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) adjusted was $2.6 billion compared to $2.3 billion in the third quarter of 2012. “We made gains in the third quarter as we improved our North American margins and increased our global share on the strength of our Chevrolet brand," said Dan Akerson, GM chairman and CEO. “Our efforts to build great cars and trucks and deliver solid financial results were recognized this quarter by Moody’s investment grade rating.”
GM Results Overview (in billions except for per share amounts) Q3 2013 Q3 2012
Revenue $39.0 $37.6
Net income attributable to common stockholders $0.7 $1.5
Earnings per share (EPS) fully diluted $0.45 $0.89
Impact of special items on EPS fully diluted $(0.51) $(0.04)
EBIT-adjusted $2.6 $2.3
Automotive net cash flow from operating activities $3.3 $3.1
Adjusted automotive free cash flow $1.3 $1.2


Segment Results
GM North America reported EBIT-adjusted of $2.2 billion compared with $1.7 billion in the third quarter of 2012.
GM North American profit for the first three quarters of 2013 is $5.57 billion, which equates to $5500 in hourly profit sharing

GM Europe reported EBIT-adjusted of $(0.2) billion compared with $(0.5) billion in the third quarter of 2012.

GM International Operations reported EBIT-adjusted of $0.3 billion compared with $0.8 billion in the third quarter of 2012.

GM South America reported EBIT-adjusted of $0.3 billion compared with EBIT-adjusted of $0.2 billion in the third quarter of 2012.

GM Financial earnings before tax was $0.2 billion for the quarter compared to $0.2 billion in the third quarter of 2012.
Cash Flow and Liquidity
For the quarter automotive cash flow from operating activities was $3.3 billion and adjusted automotive free cash flow was $1.3 billion. GM ended the quarter with very strong total automotive liquidity of $37.3 billion. Automotive cash and marketable securities was $26.8 billion compared with $24.2 billion for the second quarter of 2013.
“During the quarter strong demand for new vehicles like the Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Onix and the all-new Chevrolet Silverado helped boost our top-line,” said Dan Ammann, GM executive vice president and CFO. “We also further strengthened our fortress balance sheet and reduced our cost of capital through our $4.5 billion refinancing of high cost obligations.”

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Monday, October 21, 2013

State of the Union October 21, 2013

October 21, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

The Diversity Celebration has been rescheduled for this Thursday, Oct. 24. It will be held in the cafeteria and feature displays from various ethnic groups and free popcorn.

Weekly build options: 33 E-26 vans; 643 cutaways (24%); 372 slider doors; 24 r/h door deletes; 134 15-pass vans; 59 diesels; 6 YF7s; 37 brake deck spare tire; 428 Onstar; 5.29% AWD; .99% tan interior trim; 44 exports (37 Mexico); 52 CNG vans; 28 Enterprise; 50 AT&T; 118 U-Haul; 5 government; 86.4% white vans.

From Automotive News: With the White House seeking to finalize a trade treaty deal by year end, Japanese automakers and the Detroit 3 are embroiled in a good old-fashioned trade war. Japanese manufacturers see a trade agreement as a chance to get rid of the "chicken tax," a 25 percent U.S. tariff that makes it uneconomical to import pickup trucks from Japan. But U.S. automakers are resisting, arguing that Japan should not be rewarded when its car market is virtually closed to U.S. imports. Last month, spurred by automakers such as Ford Motor Co., 60 U.S. senators signed a letter that called on the White House to take a hard line on currency manipulation in trade deals -- a veiled jab at Japan, which has taken anti-inflationary measures that have weakened the yen and helped its exporters.
"You will never find American politicians talking about changing the value of the dollar to spur exports," said Matt Blunt, the former Missouri governor who as head of the American Automotive Policy Council is leading the charge in Washington on behalf of the Detroit 3. "It happens all the time in Japan." Japanese brands hit back last Tuesday, in the form of a letter to the president from Rep. Alan Nunnelee of Mississippi and Rep. Pete Gallego of Texas, spotlighting the economic value of the U.S. dealerships and assembly plants that Japanese brands support. Both lawmakers represent districts that are home to Toyota assembly plants. The Japanese companies have less at stake on the tariff question than they did in the 1970s, now that they make most of their U.S.-bound vehicles in North America. But every month that those tariffs stay in place costs them millions of dollars. Consider the Toyota Prius, one of the best-selling cars in the United States still exclusively produced outside North America. Toyota sold 186,756 units of the Prius, Prius C and Prius V through the first nine months of 2013. All three variants are imported from Japan and face a 2.5 percent passenger-car tariff at U.S. ports. Assuming an average taxable value of $25,000 for the cars, Toyota's tariffs for the Prius nameplate would average $625 per car, or nearly $117 million in the first nine months of this year alone.

From the Detroit Free Press: While Bob King will be president of the UAW for another nine months, preparations are already under way to select his successor and the most likely candidate is Dennis Williams. Attention is shifting to Williams because of a meeting scheduled next month by the union’s administrative caucus, which is essentially a political party charged with selecting nominees for all the union’s top offices. Williams, 60,has been the UAW’s secretary-treasurer since 2010 and served as a regional director based out of the Chicago area for 10 years before that. “I think (Williams) is a very capable leader. He is somebody who has a larger vision. And he is somebody who knows how to realize that vision,” said Harley Shaiken, professor of labor studies at the University of California, Berkeley. Jimmy Settles, vice president of the union’s Ford department, was once viewed as a possible successor to King, but he is no longer seeking the position. “I am not a candidate,” Settles told the Free Press last week. “At one time I was interested. I am not now.” UAW spokeswoman Michele Martin declined to comment. Several UAW officials and other UAW insiders told the Free Press that Williams is widely viewed as a leading candidate to become the union’s next president because of his achievements as regional director, the respect he has earned over the last four years and his ties to the administration of President Barack Obama. In addition, Williams has played a key role in the UAW’s organizing efforts with Asian and German automakers. In 1989, Williams negotiated the union's first contract with Mitsubishi Motors at the company's Normal, Ill., plant. He also was part of the team that negotiated contracts with Caterpillar in 2011 and 2004. In 2007, Williams played a central role in then-Sen. Barack Obama’s upset win in the Iowa caucuses that launched his successful presidential candidacy, according to his official UAW biography. “He met and worked with Barack Obama at a much earlier point in his career and was one of the first labor leaders who endorsed him,” Shaiken said. The union needs to elect a new president because King is 67 and UAW bylaws prohibit anyone older than 65 from taking elected office. That provision also eliminates Joe Ashton, the 65-year-old vice president of the union’s General Motors department.

From Agence France-Presse: The United Auto Workers is ratcheting up pressure on Nissan in the hopes it may finally succeed at organizing the Japanese automaker's plant in the typically anti-union southern US state of Mississippi. It has taken its campaign to the world stage in a bid to pressure Nissan to cease what the UAW has called union-busting tactics. The UAW 's efforts have won the endorsement of Nissan's Japanese unions and sympathetic unions have staged demonstrations protesting Nissan's tactics in Brazil and at the Geneva auto show. The UAW is hoping to gain the backing of the powerful French unions of Nissan's partner Renault by bringing workers to Paris this week to describe their plight. "The UAW's approach in Mississippi has been very innovative and very patient," said Harley Shaiken, a labor expert from the University of California, Berkley. The aggressive campaign comes as the UAW celebrates a big break in its decades-long efforts to organize the plants of foreign automakers. Volkswagen is currently engaged in talks with the UAW about how to get employees at its Tennessee plant a seat on the German automaker's works council. The UAW has never managed to organize workers at the plants of foreign automakers except in a handful of joint ventures with unionized General Motors, Ford or Chrysler. But UAW president Bob King insists the tide is finally turning. "We've never been this far along in an organizing drive in the South," King said in a recent interview. "It's going really well."

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Thursday, October 17, 2013

State of the Union October 17, 2013

October 17, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

The Diversity Celebration has been rescheduled for next Thursday, Oct. 24. It will be held in the cafeteria and feature displays from various ethnic groups and free popcorn.

General Motors will announce 3rd quarter earnings Wednesday, Oct. 30. In case you’re wondering, accumulated profit sharing year-to-date is $3250.

From Bloomberg: The UAW Chrysler Health Care Trust said its assets grew by $1.58 billion last year, more than half of which came from the rising value of its Chrysler holding. The trust’s net assets grew by 18 percent in 2012 to $10.3 billion, according to its 2012 financial statement, filed Oct. 11. Almost $900 million of the gain resulted from an increase in the value it placed on its Chrysler stake. Expenditures for benefits rose less than 0.1 percent to $631.1 million.
Health-care trusts for retirees from General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. also reported increases, a reversal after the three funds showed losses for 2011. Chrysler’s trust, organized as voluntary employee beneficiary plan, or VEBA, had lost $733.6 million a year earlier. Its liabilities more than doubled last year to $349.6 million. The GM UAW retiree health-care trust ended 2012 with almost $30 billion in net assets, 5.8 percent increase from the beginning of the year, according to records filed with the U.S. Department of Labor on Oct. 11. The trust completed 2012 with a net income of $1.65 billion compared with a $4.7 billion loss in 2011. The GM VEBA paid $2.48 billion in benefits and reported $170 million in administrative expenses. In September, Detroit-based GM said it plans to buy back almost half of the trust’s preferred shares in the automaker for $3.2 billion. The Ford UAW retiree health care trust ended 2012 with $15.9 billion in net assets, a 5.4 percent increase from the beginning of the year, according to its filing. The trust ended the year with net income of $806.8 million compared with a $973 million loss in 2011. The Ford VEBA paid $1.05 billion in benefits and $75.8 million in administrative expenses.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam has been adamant that VW’s flirtation with union representation is bad for business in his state and is causing some companies to reconsider moving operations there. “Companies… have said that in looking at Tennessee, ‘that is a concern of ours.’ I am not anti-union. I think it will have repercussions on additional job development in Tennessee.” Ironically, he made this statement at a news conference announcing that South Korean tire maker Hankook Tire Co. plans to invest $800 million in the state on a brand new tire plant.

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

State of the Union October 14, 2013

October 14, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

Union meeting is this week: 15 minutes after longest 2nd shift linetime of Tuesday’s shift; Wednesday at 7:15 am, 2:45 pm, and 15 minutes after longest 1st shift linetime.

The Community Services Committee will be having a meeting Thursday, Oct. 17 between shifts in the cafeteria. As always, anyone wishing to become a member is welcome to attend.

We’ve all heard about the new GM Employee Discount: Bigger, Simpler, Better. But is that really true? SOTU did an apples to apples comparison to find out. A 2013 Chevrolet Traverse LTZ stickers at $42,220.
Under the old discount format, there was a “preferred price”, consumer cash and employee vehicle allowance (EVA), with all of this culminating in your employee price. For this vehicle, the preferred price was $40, 278.77. On Sept. 17, the consumer cash amount was $1500 and the EVA was another $1500, resulting in a final price of $37,278.77. This is a total discount of $4942 or 11.7%. This same vehicle now has an employee price of $38,273.99 and comes with $2000 consumer cash for a final price of $36,273.99. That’s a discount of $5947 or 14.1%. Based on this comparison, the answers to all three claims is true. And GM has just announced bonus cash on several 2013 and 2014 vehicles of $600 to $3000 depending on the model. The 2014 Chevy Impala that is currently in the cafeteria is the recipient of $1000 bonus cash. And that Traverse gets another $1000.
This offer is good through the end of the month. More details are available at gmfamilyfirst.com. And remember, temporary employees get the discount along with aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

From Reuters: Volkswagen AG's top executives are divided over whether and how workers at the company's Tennessee assembly plant should be represented by a union, but ultimately will insist on a formal vote by those employees, a person with knowledge of the VW board's thinking said. While VW's U.S. executives are hostile to the UAW, the eight-member management board may still ask the union to help set up a German-style employee board at the Chattanooga plant, said the person, who asked not to be identified. The top executives feel that any final decision must be approved by the workers in a secret ballot to protect VW's reputation and assuage investors and U.S. politicians, said the source, who did not identify the VW executives. UAW leaders have said such a vote would allow anti-union forces to scare workers into voting against the union. The UAW has said it has support of the majority of the 1,567 hourly workers at the Tennessee plant.
UAW President Bob King told Reuters last month the union, seeking to avoid what it fears would be a divisive election process, would like the German automaker to voluntarily recognize the union as the plant's bargaining unit. Critics argue such an approach would be undemocratic. An employee in the plant's paint shop, Mike Burton, said he has gathered more than 600 signatures from VW Chattanooga hourly employees on an anti-UAW petition. A VW spokesman declined to comment beyond the company's past confirmation of talks with the UAW and that any decision would be made by the employees. VW's U.S. executives have said in the past, however, that the plant workers would need to vote on such a decision. Gary Casteel, director for the UAW region that includes Tennessee, said on Thursday that the union continues to have ongoing discussions with Volkswagen, adding that he has not heard of any decision by the VW management board on whether it will recognize the UAW.

Weekly build options: 43 E-26 vans; 559 cutaways (21%); 421 slider doors; 27 r/h door deletes; 106 15-pass vans; 95 diesels; 28 YF7s; 12 brake deck spare tire; 438 Onstar; 5.16% AWD; .49% tan interior trim; 76 exports (37 Mexico, 31 Israel); 50 CNG vans; 154 Enterprise; 50 AT&T; 113 U-Haul; 43 government; 87.3% white vans.

From Automotive News: As Nissan completes the first redesign of its Titan full-sized pickup, the company hopes to broaden the truck's appeal with more configurations aimed at fleet buyers. But attracting fleet and basic work truck customers will require more of a value pitch this time -- in contrast to the more upmarket focus of the first Titan. "Increased variation is important," says Rich Miller, Nissan's chief product specialist in charge of the next Titan. "The current Titan just didn't hit the work customer as strongly as it should have," Miller says. "We had one engine, a premium V-8. "It's hard for a work truck customer to consider that. They shop price and capability, and usually in that order. When you don't offer a regular-cab, six-cylinder, stripped-down truck, you're out of that market. That's where we need to go in the new generation." It will be an uphill fight. General Motors has become the industry leader in truck product quality, according to J.D. Power and Associates' 2013 Initial Quality Study. And setbacks and delays in the Titan's product schedule have left Nissan holding its place with a pickup that Consumer Reports calls "lackluster" and "dated."


Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

State of the Union October 8, 2013

October 8, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

There will be a Veterans Committee meeting this Thursday, Oct. 10 at 4:30 pm at the Union Hall. Main topic will be the upcoming SOS Rally scheduled for this Sunday, Oct. 13. Volunteers are still needed to help with registrations. If you can help, please come to the meeting or contact Steve Melson at 636-262-1234.

The Community Services Committee will be having a meeting Thursday, Oct. 17 between shifts in the cafeteria. As always, anyone wishing to become a member is welcome to attend.

From Reuters: Volkswagen's top labour leader lent weight on Monday to efforts by U.S. union UAW to represent workers at the German company's U.S. plant, an issue that has raised hackles among some U.S. politicians and other critics of the UAW. Volkswagen prefers German-style labour representation at the plant through a works council and has held talks with the UAW about how the union can be involved in setting one up. However, Tennessee Republican Sen. Bob Corker has said it would be a mistake for VW to allow the UAW to organize workers at its Tennessee plant. Last month, Corker called that possibility a "job-destroying idea" and said it would make the German automaker a "laughingstock in the business world."
Bernd Osterloh, head of VW's global works council, said in a statement that forming a council was important if the plant wanted to produce other VW cars and that he would keep talking with the UAW. "We know how important that (second) vehicle is for Chattanooga," said Osterloh, who as deputy chairman of VW has a say on production decisions. He said he plans to meet politicians and other supporters and opponents of the UAW in the United States in the next few weeks. However, an anti-UAW petition signed by 563 VW Chattanooga hourly employees was delivered last Friday to plant executives, said Mike Burton, the leader of the petition drive. Burton said that most of the signatures on the anti-UAW petition were gathered within two weeks. Burton, who works in the plant's paint shop, said he and a few co-workers will continue to collect signed petitions with a goal of attaining a majority of the 1,567 hourly workers.

Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk said a curved metal component was apparently the culprit in causing a Tesla to catch on fire last Tuesday. He says the object’s shape led to a powerful hit on the underside of the vehicle, punching a 3-inch hole through an armor plate (1/4 inch-thick aluminum we’re told) that protects the car’s bottom. Firefighting crews found that water seemed to intensify the fire, so they began using a dry chemical extinguisher. After dismantling the front end of the vehicle and puncturing holes in the battery pack, responders used a circular saw to cut an access hole in the front section to apply water to the battery, according to documents. Only then was the fire extinguished. Tesla took control of the vehicle to determine the cause of the fire. Alas, there was not a NHTSA investigation due to the government shutdown.

Speaking of the government shutdown, here is a statement issued by UAW President Bob King on the issue: “Tea Party Republicans continued their extremist ways and shutdown the federal government in an attempt to implement their far, right-wing agenda. Congressional Republicans’ insistence on denying health care coverage to millions of Americans by undermining the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is immoral as well as practically futile. By refusing to fund the government they have ignored the wishes of the American people and have placed millions of jobs and economic recovery in jeopardy. “House Republicans have done it again. In order to please the far right, they are taking money out of the pockets of working Americans, and costing our nation jobs. Any manufactured crisis that further slows growth and costs jobs is unacceptable. If the right wing in Congress were serious about preventing harm to Americans, they would pass a responsible budget and end sequestration, which is estimated to reduce employment by 900,000 in the next fiscal year. The House should pass a clean, temporary budget and debt limit increase without partisan wrangling, and work with President Obama and the Senate to strengthen our country.
“Along with millions of other workers, the livelihood of many UAW members is now in jeopardy because of this extremism. UAW members perform federally funded research at our nation’s colleges and universities, determine eligibility for social safety net programs, provide legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, build next generation vehicles for our military, and much more. A government shutdown harms all Americans now and in the future. The UAW stands ready to work with all who are serious about strengthening our economy and creating a brighter future.”

General Motors revealed the redesigned Cadillac Escalade last night in New York, marking the latest new product for a luxury brand that has morphed from laggard to serious contender over the last few years. The introduction of the fourth-generation Escalade comes as Cadillac sales have risen 29% so far this year from the first nine months of 2012. The 2015 Escalade, which goes into production next spring, follows the successful introductions last year of the ATS and XTS sedans. Production began last month on a dramatically overhauled CTS midsize car. Cadillac also plans to launch the all-new ELR electric coupe in early 2014. Designers sharpened the Escalade's existing exterior by accentuating the vehicle's distinctive tall, thin LED headlights, for example. "The 2015 Escalade is completely new and elevated in design and technology, inside and out. The clear objective is to once again assume the leadership position among luxury SUVs," Bob Ferguson, senior vice president of global Cadillac, said in a statement.
Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst at Kelley Blue Book, said the vehicle look is "bolder, bigger, more impressive, both inside and out. They need to solidify their base. It's very different from the large SUVs and CUVs from the imports, and I think that's an important distinction." GM's new 6.2-liter, 8-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission is the standard powertrain. Special attention was paid to improving the quality of the interior. "It's a very rich-looking interior," Nerad said. "It seems ergonomically excellent, and at the same time it's luxurious and looks rich.” It will be built at GM's assembly plant in Arlington, Texas. The average Escalade price in September was $73,596, according to KBB. GM said the vehicle, which only recently shed its dubious distinction as the most-stolen vehicle in the U.S., is packed with new theft-prevention technology. For example, it has sensors that monitor glass shattering and interior movement.

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly 636-327-2119

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

State of the union October 1, 2013

October 1, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

From Chairman Mike Bullock: I have several items of good news to report today. Benefits Reps. Mike, Smitty, Lisa and Karen, along with Van and myself went to the annual Benefits conference last week. The good news to report from the conference is that due to the Affordable Health Care Act that goes into effect January 1, 2014 all entry level seniority employees with 90 days or more will have full health care benefits including dental and vision as of January 1, 2014. What this means is that the permanent employees that were hired in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 that have 90 days or more seniority will be entitled to full health care benefits, including dental and vision, after January 1, 2014. Nothing will need to be done at this time to be signed up for this coverage. All this is part of the Affordable Health Care act that President Barack Obama pushed through Congress in 2012. The Republicans are still trying to decimate the Affordable Health Care Act by holding up a funding bill in Congress that shut down the government today. As long as the Republicans don't succeed in dismantling the Affordable Health Care Act, it will be enacted January 1, 2014 along with benefits for all seniority employees.
Also:

The requisition for 9 additional employees that was submitted in August for Wentzville Assembly Center exhausted all those applicants that had their name on file with the NEPC (National Employee Placement Center). That allowed two temporary employees who had been here the longest to be converted to permanent on Monday September 30, 2013. Congratulations!

An additional requisition for 31 more employees has been submitted to the National Parties. This requisition for 31 employees includes 20 newjobs in Trim. The remaining 11 are due to attrition or transfers. This requisition will first be filled by employees whose name is on file with the NEPC. If not enough applicants accept a transfer, then additional temps will be converted.

Weekly build options: 133 E-26 vans; 548 cutaways (20%); 404 slider doors; 116 r/h door deletes; 154 15-pass vans; 115 diesels; 121 YF7s; 23 brake deck spare tire; 608 Onstar; 4.9% AWD; .74% tan interior trim; 77 exports (36 Mexico); 60 CNG vans; 227 U-Haul; 181 Enterprise; 60 AT&T; 52 government; 81.5% white vans.

Beginning today, GM hourly employees in the U.S. are now able to update their banking and tax information directly in the payroll system through a new online application called the Employee Self-Service Portal. This initiative makes payroll actions much simpler. It limits the need to fax direct deposit forms or submit W-4 documents. Actions you can take with this tool include:
  • Add or change your banking information – immediately updates the payroll system and changes become effective with the next payroll cycle
  • Change your W-4 information for federal and state tax withholding (e.g. exemptions, status, etc.) – immediately updates the payroll system and changes are effective on the date of input
  • Confirm personal data such as SSN and date of birth
  • Connect to iPay – GM’s online pay statement application


Here’s the web address for the Self-Service Portal: https://ssoportal.globalview.adp.com Note: Access to the portal requires you be a registered iPay pay statement user. Complete instructions for accessing and updating the portal can be found in the Employee Self-Service Guide located on the Global Financial Shared Services Payroll site: https://gmweb.gm.com/sites/GFSSHome/NAHome/Payroll/Pages/PayrollHome.aspx Registration instructions for iPay are found on this site as well. The GM Hourly Payroll Center can address your question: (hourlytimekeepingcenter@gm.comor 866-245-5957).

General Motors Co. dealers delivered 187,195 vehicles in the United States in September, down 11 percent compared year over year. Retail sales were down 6 percent versus a year ago and fleet sales were down 27 percent. Retail sales were up 2 percent on a selling day-adjusted basis. “We held our own when it comes to retail market share this month thanks to strong new products, including the Chevrolet Impala, Buick Encore, GMC Sierra and the Cadillac ATS and XTS,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “We expect a strong finish to the year and more growth in 2014 thanks to new products and a healthier economy.” Highlights (vs. 2012)
  • Buick sales increased 6 percent and Cadillac sales were up 10 percent. On a retail basis, Buick sales have now increased for 17 months in a row.
  • Chevrolet Malibu sales were up 29 percent, sales of the Spark were up 6 percent and retail sales of the Impala increased 64 percent. Chevrolet Tahoe sales were up 14 percent.
  • Third quarter retail sales for GM were up 13 percent and total sales were up 7 percent.
  • Through the first nine months of the year, Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac and GMC have posted double-digit retail sales increases compared with 2012.
  • Year-to-date sales of Buick and Cadillac cars are up a combined 15 percent; large pickups are up 20 percent; large SUVs are up 15 percent; and compact crossovers are up 13 percent.
  • Van sales came in at 6,055, which was up 23.9% over last September.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Thursday, September 26, 2013

State of the Union September 26, 2013

September 26, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com


There will be a Recreation Committee meeting today between shifts at the Union Hall. All are welcome to attend. The main topic of this meeting will be planning for the 30th anniversary celebration of Local 2250.

There will be a Chaplaincy Committee meeting today at 4:45 pm in the Chassis Chapel located at column C-42. All are welcome.

Reminder: Friday, Sept. 27 is the deadline for ordering your Making Strides Against Breast Cancer UAW-GM T-shirts. All shirts are $20. Order forms are available at the entrances and you can drop them off in the suggestions boxes with CASH ONLY or you can also leave them with Pat Workman,Becky Schieffer, Kandi Kinsler, Tamara Harris or Klaudia Jakubiak. The walk will be Sat. Oct. 26, Forest Park at 9 am.

From Automotive News: Even without a free-trade pact, Ford Motor Co. has leaned on European models such as the Ford Fiesta and C-Max to extend its U.S. product line. But that strategy can backfire. This year, in a clear example of why Ford is pushing so hard for a trans-Atlantic treaty, the automaker had its hand slapped by the U.S. government for bringing cargo vans into the United States without paying the "chicken tax" -- a 50-year-old tax on imported trucks and vans, so named because it was imposed as payback for a German tariff on chicken. In the little-noticed January ruling, officials at U.S. Customs and Border Protection took issue with how Ford was importing the Turkey-built Transit Connect, a commercial van popular in Europe that Ford launched in the U.S. market four years ago. Ford chose to bring the Transit Connects to the United States equipped as passenger vans. Then, at a warehouse at the Port of Baltimore, a contractor would strip out seats and windows to prepare them for sale as cargo vans. In doing so, Ford hoped to save thousands of dollars in tariffs per unit on the cargo version, which starts at $23,420, including shipping. Small passenger vans, like cars, face a 2.5 percent import tariff in the United States, compared with the 25 percent tariff on cargo vans. In the Jan. 30 decision, U.S. customs officials told Ford to stop. "It is clear that the Connect is a commercial vehicle first and foremost," said the 13-page ruling. Ford's strategy "serves no manufacturing or commercial purpose" other than to "manipulate the tariff schedule," the ruling added. A Ford spokesman said the company is appealing the ruling, which it says contradicts previous decisions by the agency. In the meantime, it is still importing Transit Connects and paying the higher tariff. Ford has announced plans to launch a redesigned Transit Connect at the end of 2013, to be built in Valencia, Spain, rather than Turkey. Those plans haven't changed, the spokesman said (ed.note: the van will also be produced in Kansas City) At the same time, Ford is lobbying Congress and U.S. trade negotiators to keep the chicken tax in place against Japanese automakers. The American Automotive Policy Council, a trade group that represents the Detroit 3, says the chicken tax for Japanese trucks shouldn't be fully phased out for 25 or 30 years. Japan has no tariffs, but the group argues that because of other trade barriers, foreign brands can barely sell any vehicles in Japan.

From the Chattanooga Times Free Press: Seven workers at Chattanooga's Volkswagen plant are filing federal charges against the United Auto Workers, saying the union misled and coerced them and other employees to forfeit their rights in its card-signing campaign to gain their support, a group said today. The National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation said its attorneys are to file the charges today with the National Labor Relations Board's regional office in Atlanta. According to the foundation, VW workers were told by UAW organizers that a signature on the card was to call for a secret-ballot election. The workers also charged other "improprieties" in the card-check process, including using cards that were signed too long ago to be legally valid. (Here is a picture of the card)Click on images for larger photo.


Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

State of the Union September 18, 2013

September 18, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com

From the Veterans Committee: The 8th annual SOS (Support Our Soldiers) Rally is Sunday, Oct. 13. Registration begins at 10 am at the Union Hall and last bike out by noon. Cost is $10 per bike and $5 for each extra hand. All bikes and cages are welcome. The ride ends at Maggie Malones. Proceeds will benefit Heroes Care. For more information contact Steve Melson at 636-262-1234.

For those members who have spouses either working at or retired from GM, you can avoid paying double taxes on the imputed income related to Legal Services benefits by calling 800-521-7818, ext. 2389 to have your coverage changed to one of you. You need to call by Friday, Sept. 20. And remember, Legal Services will end Dec. 31 this year.

From TruckTrend: With Volkswagen's home market of Europe continuing to face hardships, the company is focusing its expansion and growth efforts outside of the Continent, specifically looking toward Southeast Asia and North America for growth. Jonathan Browning, VW's CEO of North American operations, said commercial vehicles "certainly represent an opportunity" for the company, in a report from Reuters, but remained non-committal about a specific timeframe or model offering. The most obvious prospects for VW's expansion into the commercial sector would be the midsize Amarok pickup, as well as the Caddy compact cargo van, which would compete with the Ford Transit Connect, the Nissan NV200, and the upcoming Fiat Doblo-based compact cargo van coming from Ram.

From Reuters: Volkswagen will not grant immediate union recognition to its U.S. workers and may take months to reach agreement on a German-style works council for its Tennessee plant, company officials said today. Talks with the UAW are likely to continue into next year, said Sebastian Patta, human resources chief at the Chattanooga factory. VW must resolve some complex legal issues before setting up a U.S. works council, Patta told Reuters. "This is a very sensitive subject and we have only just started the dialogue." VW still has to decide whether to recognize the union on the basis of the card count or go ahead with a ballot on whether to recognize the union. Granting recognition on the basis of the card count is "not a priority," said a Germany-based VW official involved in the discussions, echoing the Chattanooga executive's remarks. He declined to be identified because the talks are confidential. VW declined comment on the card count or the company's next move. U.S. operations chief Jonathan Browning said earlier this month the union negotiations "may or may not conclude with formal third-party representation" that would ultimately depend on a full vote.

The U.S. Treasury has sold another block of shares in General Motors Co., reducing its stake to 7.3 percent as it moves toward exiting its holdings in the automaker by the end of March. The Treasury sold more than 110 million shares between May 6 and Sept. 13, raising more than $3.82 billion, according to documents posted online on Tuesday. The Treasury confirmed its stake in the No. 1 U.S. automaker now stands at 101 million shares. The Canadian and Ontario governments on Sept. 10 said they would sell nearly a quarter of their common shares in GM as part of a longer term plan to exit stock acquired in the bailout. After raising $1.1 billion in that sale, the governments still hold more than 110 million shares.

From Consumer Reports: In a heavy-metal duel of two top pickups, the Chevrolet Silverado’s excellent road-test score of 81 makes it the top-rated truck. The Silverado edged the Ram in several areas important to many pickup owners. When typically configured, it has a significantly larger bed and more payload capacity, and it can tow more weight. The Silverado also has a lower step-in height than the Ram, aiding access. It handles a bit better in everyday driving (though no big pickup is particularly agile). And it delivers best-in-class fuel economy of 16 mpg overall, which is 1 mpg better than the Ram.
That could save you about 50 gallons of gas per year. For years the Silverado has scored well in our tests, and the redesigned 2014 model is the best yet. Handling is more carlike than in most trucks, the cabin is very quiet, and it provides impressive towing and payload capabilities. And at 16 mpg overall, our Silverado got the best fuel economy of any full-sized truck we’ve tested. With well-contained body lean and linear, responsive steering, this truck feels eminently controllable. The steering has good heft yet feels light enough at low speeds for easy maneuvering. When pushed to its limits the Silverado proved stable and secure. A counter spring makes it easy to raise or lower the tailgate with one hand, a nice convenience when loading cargo. Its relatively low ride height eases access, and the cabin stays amazingly quiet inside. The main gauges are large and easy to read, and the controls use big, well-labeled buttons and knobs. The automatic climate controls display the set temperature within their knobs, which is a nice, user-friendly touch. Chevy’s MyLink touch-screen radio system offers modern capabilities with simple controls for the basic functions. (Both trucks outscored the previously-tested Ford’s F-150 XLT, which 3.5-liter EcoBoost turbo V6 and 5.0-liter V8 versions rank third and fourth respectively)

If Consumer Reports giving top scores to the Impala and Silverado isn’t enough to make you question the nature of the universe, how about Tennessee Sen. Bob Corker declaring that he is NOT anti-union? Before you build that doomsday bunker, here’s the other part of the story that restores sanity: he IS anti-UAW. "[Some of the] employees that worked at my company were union [members]," he said. "And I carried a union card as a young man." But Corker called the UAW a "destructive force," and he said the union will damage the city’s ability to attract suppliers and will stifle potential economic growth. Corker did not identify which union’s card he carried.

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

State of the Union September 10, 2013

September 10, 2013 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
Reminder: Applications for the Pre and Post Retirement program are still being accepted. The program is 4 sessions long, approximately 2 hours each session. Sessions will be before work for second shift and after work for first shift. Third shift will be determined by participation. We encourage everyone, including younger members, to seriously consider attending. Applications are available at the entrances and can be dropped in the Suggestions boxes at the entrances. By the time of the next contract, nearly half of all current members will be retirement eligible.

From the Women’s Committee: Thanks to everyone who donated their time and money in this year’s golf tournament. It was a big success. Over $1500 was raised for ALIVE (alternative to living in violent environment)!

The UAW issued a statement confirming that high level talks were recently held in Germany regarding representation at the VW plant in Tennessee. “The UAW confirms that officials of Volkswagen Group, the Volkswagen Global Works Council and the UAW met in Wolfsburg, Germany, on Aug. 30, 2013, in a continuation of previous meetings between their representatives. The meeting focused on the appropriate paths, consistent with American law, for arriving at both Volkswagen recognition of UAW representation at its Chattanooga facility and establishment of a German-style works council. We look forward to future discussions.” A letter signed by the Chattanooga plant’s chairman and CEO, Frank Fischer, and by Sebastian Patta, the facility’s vice president of human resources, also confirmed talks with the UAW. The letter discussed “the possibility of implementing an innovative model of employee representation for all employees.” And UAW President Bob King issued a statement saying, “The meeting focused on the appropriate paths, consistent with American law, for arriving at both Volkswagen recognition of UAW representation at its Chattanooga facility and establishment of a German-style works council. VW workers in Chattanooga have the unique opportunity to introduce this new model of labor relations to the United States, in partnership with the UAW. ‘

From the Detroit News: Workers at Hyundai Motor Co.’s South Korean plants approved a preliminary wage pact to raise base salary by 5.1 percent and end strikes at the company’s largest manufacturing base. The accord, which will raise the average compensation by 28.8 million won ($26,600), was approved in a vote by the Seoul- based company’s 46,000 guild members, according to a text message from union spokesman Kim Gi Hyuk. The wage agreement includes a 97,000-won ($90) increase in monthly base salary, and bonuses worth 3 1/2 months of wages plus 5 million won ($4600) in cash, according to a Sept. 6 statement on the union’s website. This is equivalent to an average of 28.8 million won extra per person.
Unifor Local 88, formerly known as Canadian Auto Workers Local 88, returned to the bargaining table Sunday with General Motors Co., hoping to come to an agreement on a new contract for about 2,600 hourly workers at GM’s CAMI assembly plant in Ingersoll, Ontario. Local President Dan Borthwick said Friday that formal negotiations with GM began Sunday and that the union has scheduled a ratification vote on Sept. 15. The current contract expires at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 16. Borthwick wouldn’t comment on specifics that the union is seeking for its membership. “We want to improve the conditions both in the plant and economically for our members,” Borthwick said in a telephone interview. Borthwick said it’s unclear whether Unifor 88 will end up with a three- or four-year contract. GM Canada spokeswoman Adria MacKenzie said in an email, "We are optimistic that we can work with our CAW partners to overcome challenges together and find creative solutions to ensure we are competitive. There is still more work to be done to enhance the competitiveness of our Canadian operations and we will continue to work with the CAW to identify opportunities to improve." GM and Unifor Local 88 started negotiations earlier this year, but the union in late March canceled a scheduled ratification vote and around the same time announced formal talks were being suspended while the parties reviewed “a number of issues.” The sides have had informal discussions since. In August, the local union’s membership voted to authorize a strike if necessary, with 98.6 percent of members supporting, Borthwick said. “I think the deadline is necessary, but I believe a collective agreement can be reached between both parties,” he said.

From Automotive News: Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling about 780,000 crossovers and hybrid sedans for a second time to fix looseness on rear-suspension lower arms that could cause the threads to rust and wear out, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said. The recall covers 2010 Lexus HS 250h hybrids and 2006-11 Toyota RAV4 crossovers. The original recall for both vehicles was launched in November, but Toyota said it received reports from dealers that some vehicles experienced the same symptoms as before (Doh!!) Drivers reported hearing abnormal noises from the rear of the vehicles. The automaker, in documents submitted to regulators, said wear on the threaded part of the arm could cause the arm to separate, which could result in the loss of vehicle control and a crash. Toyota and Lexus sent similar letters to their dealers on Tuesday, Sept. 3, notifying them of the second recall. "Upon investigation, it was discovered that some inspections were not adequate and portions of the repair procedure may not have been performed correctly," the Toyota letter stated. Toyota said it has revised the inspection and remedy procedures and is asking owners to go to dealerships to have the revised procedures performed.

From Mlive: Employees of a General Motors Corp. engine component plant (Grand Rapids) were sent home at about 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 9, after a lightning strike caused a power outage. General Motors spokesman Bob Wheeler said company officials were meeting with Consumers Energy officials to evaluate the damage and determine if the plant’s second shift would be called in to work. The plant does not have adequate backup power to operate at full production, Wheeler said. Some of the backup equipment also sustained damage as a result of the lightning strike. While the factory is considered a critical supplier for General Motors, Wheeler said the outage should not have a company-wide effect if production resumes within a day. “Hopefully this is short term and hopefully, we lost only one shift of production,” he said.

Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119