Welcome to CSM Insights for 3Q 2008. In the face of $4 gasoline and the sudden and drastic shift in consumer preferences from light trucks and big SUVs to smaller sedans and crossovers, it's all too easy to take a doomsday view of the North American auto industry. That's why it's more important than ever to keep one eye firmly on the future, even as the dayto- day drama does its best to dominate our attention.
In this issue, we're looking farther down the road at topics that will have tremendous influence on the industry into mid-century. Our associates at Feri Rating & Research in Germany provide a fascinating look at how rapid economic development in key emerging markets will affect not only their home economies but market dynamics across the globe. We'll take an in-depth look at effects of rising global food prices and the role biofuels play in that equation. Power Systems Research, our affiliate providing forecasting of the medium and heavy truck markets, brings an analysis of the volatile North American commercial vehicle market. And we'll examine the key role of logistics and sourcing in your future planning.
As always, it's about charting your path to success with informed decisions based on sound market insights.
Thanks for reading,
Craig Cather
President & CEO
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