What news stories did manufacturing managers find the most interesting in 2009? The results just may surprise you. We can tell you this much — General Motors and its financial woes garnered a slew of eyeballs! Check out the complete Top 10 list.
1. Harley-Davidson Considers Moving Plant
Milwaukee-based company is exploring ways to reduce costs at its main motorcycle production facility in York, Pa., which could include a move.
2. EPA Revises 'Clunker' Eligibility List
Environmental Protection Agency said 78 vehicles that used to qualify as trade-ins under 'cash for clunkers' program no longer qualify, but 86 more vehicles now do.
3. Chinese Worker Commits Suicide Over Missing iPhone
Employee at Foxconn Technology Group factory that makes iPhones in China killed himself after a fourth-generation prototype in his possession went missing.
4. Senate OKs Tax Break For New Car Buyers
Provision to the economic stimulus bill would allow many car buyers to claim an income tax deduction for sales taxes paid on new autos and interest payments on car loans.
5. GM Files For Bankruptcy, Closes Plants
General Motors filed for Chapter 11 Monday and said it will close nine more plants and idle three others as part of Obama administration's plan to shrink GM to a sustainable size.
6. GM To Quit Medium-Duty Truck Business
General Motors says it will stop making medium-duty trucks by July 31 because it was unable to find a buyer for the operations.
7. Chrysler Dealers Try To Unload Vehicles
Dealers try for quick sales with deep discounts as Chrysler stands firm in its decision to close franchises in an attempt to save money.
8. Nortel Goes Bankrupt
Technology giant filed for bankruptcy protection in Canada and the U.S. on Wednesday, the first major technology company to file for protection during the global downturn.
9. Survey: Kids Saying No To Engineering
Manufacturers are facing a troubling engineer shortage as an overwhelming 85 percent of youth say they are not interested in a future engineering career.
10. GM Could Be Split In Bankruptcy
Administration's scenario could see GM split in two, with a workable component emerging within 30 days and remaining half left in bankruptcy court to be liquidated.
