Motors

A year ago, the opinion was general that the saturation point for the motor industry had been about reached and that output must henceforth be curtailed rather than expanded. This spring, however, motors have again staged a vigorous come-back under heavy retail sales.

In April, a new high record for monthly output by U. S. and Canadian plants was triumphantly established at 391,301 for passenger cars and 47,664 for trucks. The previous high record was set in May, 1924, when 358,685 passenger cars and 45,804 trucks were produced.

Despite last April's fine showing, however, total output for the first four months this year (1,189,175 cars and trucks) was below the total output of 1,340,734 cars and trucks attained during the same months of 1924. Indications point to a new record production for May, 1925, however, so that it is prophesied along Automobile Row, Manhattan, that the figures for the first five months of 1925 will surpass those for any previous year during the same months.

In general, the opinion prevails that the present rapid pace will not result in overproduction, owing to rapid retail sales. The motor industry, despite its eternal enthusiasm, has nevertheless acquired a wholesome respect for inventory figures; and it is stated that, as soon as retail demand tapers off, most makers will at once curtail production.