Socialist manufacturing in action

Dec. 17, 2009
There has been a lot of joking about General Motors since its financial bailout -- wags now call it Government Motors. But for a real glimpse at what manufacturing under a socialist style of government can be like, pick up the Nov. 28, 2009 issue of The ...

There has been a lot of joking about General Motors since its financial bailout -- wags now call it Government Motors. But for a real glimpse at what manufacturing under a socialist style of government can be like, pick up the Nov. 28, 2009 issue of The Economist, and note the description of Venezuelia's Venirauto's car factory.

According to the Economist, the plant has a production capacity of 25,000 vehicles a year but struggles to produce even 10,000. There are 30,000 customers on a waiting list for cars. And the socialist government refuses to negotiate a collective labor contract. Employees recently stopped work over poor pay and poor safety conditions.

You can find the Economist article here: http://www.economist.com/world/americas/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14969108

About the Author

Lee Teschler | Editor

Leland was Editor-in-Chief of Machine Design. He has 34 years of Service and holds a B.S. Engineering from the University of Michigan, a B.S. Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan;, and a MBA from Cleveland State University. Prior to joining Penton, Lee worked as a Communications design engineer for the U.S. Government.

Sponsored Recommendations

Food Production: How SEW-EURODRIVE Drives Excellence

Feb. 18, 2025
Optimize food production with SEW-EURODRIVE’s hygienic, energy-efficient automation and drive solutions for precision, reliability, and sustainability.

Optimizing Agricultural Operations with SEW-EURODRIVE

Feb. 18, 2025
Boost efficiency with SEW-EURODRIVE's durable drive solutions for agriculture. Reliable, efficient, and tailored for you!

Ensure Safety with Explosion-Proof Pumps for Critical Applications

Feb. 10, 2025
For high-risk environments, reliability is paramount. Learn how KNF's explosion-proof pumps provide enhanced safety and performance in demanding OEM and process applications, ...

Revolutionizing Pump Efficiency with Advanced Drive Technology

Feb. 10, 2025
Discover how KNF’s innovative MI Motors are transforming pump intelligence and system integration. With enhanced efficiency and smarter control, this breakthrough technology optimizes...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!