I'm not sure that this generalization is entirely fair. The Lexus, for instance, was the spawn of an economy breed. Quite honestly, I've never heard of the Phaeton, just like I never heard of the Crossfire. It seems to me in both cases to be the result of a total failure in marketing. I do not recall ever seeing Crossfire advertising in any medium, and I would not recognize the Phaeton if one of 'em ran over me.

The point of this thread has very little to do with Volkswagen or the Phaeton, but moreso with the inevitable fate of Chrysler ... and of GM for that matter. Both automakers will simply not exist in the public eye for at least five years until they can regroup and retool and be in position to present an image of an automotive product comparable to the VW video above.

It will be years before either automaker can present and roll out a relevant automobile to the public. Chrysler has nothing and GM at best has the Camaro. How can the companies possibly survive during their collective restructuring? The fixed costs are real, but how can they fund any successful development effort in the meantime with nothing to sell? What becomes of the UAW rank and file and the concentric circle of suppliers, dealerships and support industries while this re-birthing takes place? The carrying costs are simply too great with or without Fiat or our New Fabian King's help.

Did I specualte when Ford shares cost a buck and a half? You bet. Will the VW's and Honda's and Infiniti's of the world survive and thrive when the pent-up demand for new cars returns? You bet. (what is the plural of Lexus? Lexi?) Chrysler and GM will both still be fumbling around when they should be selling cars.

This thread also has little to do with the technology presented in the VW video. The automation and component retrieval systems shown have been around since the seventies (the white coats and wooden floors are impressive). But it does have a whole lot to do with the confident presentation of a quality automotive product ready for sale to the consumer.

Both GM and Chrysler are unfortunately a fatal period of time away from any such presentation, no matter how many of your tax dollars are thrown at the problem. And under the control and auspices of your government?

No way.