Does Strong Auto Sector Performance Suggest a Manufacturing Renaissance?

...let's hope so.

Today, Chrysler, unhampered and seemingly unaffected by European debt woes posted strong Q2 earnings of $436 million. It's a sharp departure from last year at this time, when the auto giant reported a $370 million loss for the period. 


The New York Times (7/31, Chapman) reports that Chrysler's distinct lineup and new designs are what propelled the car maker forward. Similarly, the hometown Detroit News (7/31, Hoffman) offers that it is Chrysler's variation in autos - and move away from gas-guzzling pickups and SUVs - that have led to increased domestic sales. 


With no bailout dollars left, and none on the horizon, U.S. auto manufacturers are left to stand on their own and to depend on their operating models to be successful. Numbers like these are not unusual in American industry these days, despite flagging GDP numbers. Recall that only yesterday, we saw positive Q2 numbers from Boeing (7/30, Team), too. 


So, with positive earnings reports from Chrysler, Boeing and others, is this what an American manufacturing renaissance looks like? You tell us. One thing's for sure, FARO is ready...we hope you are too. 

Thanks for Attending the 2012 CMSC Ice Breaker

A crowd of over 300 engineers, quality control professionals and software developers was treated to an exclusive first look at FARO's all-new Vantage Laser Tracker last Monday. Unveiled by FARO CEO, Jay Freeland, the Vantage drew applause on looks alone (it's really, really small) and was the talk of CMSC 2012 for the rest of the week. We're thankful to those that joined us in New Orleans to debut FARO's newest innovation. 

If you weren't on-hand to see the Vantage in person, click here for more information. 

Boeing, United Airlines to Strike Huge Deal Worth Over $9 Billion

Great news today for Boeing as United Airlines has announced their intent to acquire at least 100 - and maybe up to 200 - 777 aircraft in a deal that could eventually be worth over $9 billion. Recall that, last year, Airbus secured a sales of 260 aircraft to AMR. 

What does this say about the outlook for the airline industry or, perhaps more importantly, American manufacturing? 

Read the full story here.