S. Korean automakers to call on gov`t to help cope with drop in demand

SEOUL, Nov. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korean automakers said Thursday that it will call on the government to provide support to cope with the sharp drop in domestic demand and exports.

The Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association (KAMA), an umbrella interest
group, said it has drawn up a list of requests compiled by the country's five
automakers, including those by Hyundai Motor Co., Kia Motors Corp. and Renault
Samsung Motors Corp.
It said that companies have asked for state support to boost car sales by
eliminating factors that have been cited for raising prices. Carmakers have asked
the government to lower taxes on small cars, scrap environmental protection
charges on diesel vehicles, and promote sales through installments.
Carmakers also want Seoul to provide more research and development support for
eco-friendly, energy-efficient hybrid vehicles.
Local carmakers have started feeling the pinch of the sluggish economy that has
caused a sharp drop in sales inside and outside the country.
Some are mulling options to halt production to deal with rising inventory and
looking into restructuring to overcome the current impasse.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
(END)