Carmakers resort to new model price cuts

FT Oct/20/08
Unusual move by Ford and Chrysler
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Ford motor and Chrysler have taken the rare step of offering discounts on their newest models as they gear up for a ferocious(ひどい） battle for the hearts and wallets of North American pick up truck buyers.
At the centre of the fray(争い） are the　2009 version of Ford's F150 and Chrysler's Dodge Ram, both now arriving in dealer showrooms.
F series has been the US top selling vehicle for the past 31 years, contributing 27% of Ford's 2007 sales volumes.
The Ram accounted for 17% of Chrysler's sales last year.

F series sales in September were 39% lower than a year earlier. Ram sales were down 28%.

CSM worldwide, expects further shrinkage next year and in 2010, bringing sales of trucks down to about half of 2001' 3.3 million peak.


GM and Toyota trucks are sold with heavy incentives , with some dealers offering 2008 models at little more than half price.