Restructuring of the U.S. Auto Industry in the 2008-2009 Recession

Abstract

After many years of declining fortunes, the Detroit Three carmakers were at risk of closure and liquidation during the severe recession of 2008-2009. Efforts by the Bush and Obama administrations to support the carmakers culminated in a government-managed reorganization of Chrysler and General Motors during 2009. As a result of the restructuring, the two carmakers emerged from bankruptcy protection with lower labor costs, higher capacity utilization, and a more concentrated geographic distribution of assembly plants.