Detroit Is Losing More Ground in Crossovers
- GM, Ford and Fiat Chrysler’s share of production seen slipping
- Shift leaves the three highly dependent on their big trucks
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During broadcasts of Wimbledon tennis matches this month, a promotional game was playing out between General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. Unfortunately for Detroit, the two look outmatched by other opponents.
The advertisements were for crossover vehicles that are crucial to automakers’ success in the U.S., with consumers buying them in droves at the expense of sedans. GM was dangling a hefty 18 percent discount on most Buick Encore models. Ford was hitting back with an ad in which the narrator opened: “Considering Buick Encore? You should look at the all-new Ford EcoSport.”