Hmmm, I agree. I have always said I didn't-and don't -think Toyota makes a nickel on the Prius. All the BS about "efficient Japanese management and production techniques" has been pure BS for the last 15 years. All the car companies "read the same books" and adopt the most efficient production methods.
GM has a core of customers that are deeply loyal to GM;Toyota has loyal customers, but they aren't deeply loyal-there isn't the emotional connection.Still, it is impossible to make up $1500 more in labor costs per vehicle.Is GM hoping to pare their labor/pension/healthcare costs to near Texas/Toyota levels?The new wage earners in that plant will probably start out at $12/hr+ benefits-under $20/hr. How does GM approach that? It looks impossible, if the UAW won't allow non union plants to be built here-USA. GM also needs to push for national health care-that would save them billions/yr!
Good luck.Charlie