Statistics for workers.

http://www.autoindustry.co.uk/statistics/manufacturing/Employees
This site shows a bunch of statistics on the growth or failure of workers since 1996. It shows that the numbers have been steadily falling since 1998.

Ford's Plan

Ford now says that its situation is so bad that it will not return to profit until 2009. This will be in three years. This report was published in 2006.
http://www.northriver.com/AutoIndustry2006.pdf

Job Losses

At least 235,000 auto workers have been laid off since 2008. Approximately 500 suppliers face the possibility of bankruptcy. The economy crisis and the auto crisis are tightly linked, and with production decreasing the auto industry suffers.

Loans

The Auto Industry has received over $17 billion in loans thus far. GM and Chrysler are asking for an additional $21 billion combined. This does not include the $5 billion given to the auto suppliers that employ over 500,000 Americans. Bankruptcy would put millions out of work.

One Solution

A proposal for a health care trust for all the Big Three's employees would save $116 billion of retiree obligations. This would supposedly make the industry profitable again. The UAW is against it. They believe the companies have a commitment to health benefits and they should not be able to get out of it.

The Crisis and the Gays

If GM, Chrysler, and Ford stopped providing same-sex benefits they would save "over $125 Million," according to RightMichigan.com.

Bush takes action in auto industry crisis

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2008/12/19/report-white-house-auto-industry-low-loans/
This article talks about Bush's plan to make the bridge loan to the Big 3 be drawn out of the 700 billion bailout for the banks. But the loans will be called back if the companies are not viable by March 31st.