The new large Cadillac concept�dubbed the XTS Platinum is a good example. It appears to be a stunning design meant to compete with rear-wheel drive S-Class Mercedes� and 7 Series BMWs The most recent Caddys are once again evoking some passion in consumers�it is a shame that it took GM decades to realize that copying ideas in a unique way can be a good thing. That said, the car is still years off and the market swings so quickly that everything just might change again.
Certainly fossil fuel cost has a lot to do with the way designers are designing�not just cars either. Houses, boats, and even clothes have all been affected by the trend. Small cars are very evident in the show this year with new GM designs and Fiat/Chrysler 500�s certain to be hitting American roads soon.
The problem is that when gas prices went back down most people predictably forgot the panic of close to $5 a gallon. Small cars are not selling all that well, and now as most of manufactures have new designs just about to be released there appears to be little interest. One big factor may be the newly
passed higher MPG requirements that will force makers to produce and sell large amounts of compacts to keep their corporate fuel averages as high as possible.This small car glut will cause them to sell at little profit and likely with the help of large customer incentives as well. It's ironic that they may have to depend on Mid-East Sheiks to help them out by cutting oil production once again.
Thanks to netcarshow.com for the manufacturers photos.
EAC.