Freepcast - Detroit Free Press - Auto news

As Michigan workers re-made themselves, the state's economy began to diversify. While the auto industry will never be the powerhouse that it once was here, there is hope that the big three will again thrive.

With thousands of jobs lost, plants closed and dealers shuttered, the people of Michigan struggled to survive.

With the industry's image tarnished, GM, Ford and Chrysler worked hard to re-brand their images. Newly elected President Barak Obama and his autos task force would reshape the industry through bankruptcy.

Starting in June of 2008, the auto industry went into free fall and struggled for life in the midst of the worst recession since the Great Depression. The industry's cries for help fell on deaf ears in congress and ultimately the White House provided rescue loans.

Michigan's auto industry provided millions of blue collar workers with a chance to live the American dream. That dream has faltered during the industry's decades long decline and recent collapse, leaving many to ask, "where do we go from here?".

Stephanie Vargas of Detroit talks about her 1964 Chevrolet Impala.

Mark Phelan's choices for cars that are hits and misses at the 2009 North American International Auto Show.

Many national and international journalists came to the Lamborghini Fashion Show at the 2009 North American

International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan on Monday January 12, 2009. Beautiful models walked and showed off

fashion to the beat of electronica music.

To the beat of African drums, DaimlerChrysler unveils the Jeep Trailhawk and Chrysler Nassau at the NAIAS in Detroit.

Mazda unveils its Ryuga concept car at the NAIAS in Detroit.