Gene Brown, Suzuki, at the 2009 Chicago auto show

Gene Brown, Vice President of Marketing for Suzuki sat down with me at the 2009 Chicago auto show. Gene’s answer to the last question was enlightening.

I asked all the executives the same questions:

1. Are we looking at a fundamental downsizing of the industry?

2. What is the one thing that will capture the imagination and wallet of tomorrows buyer?

3. The car used to be a symbol of freedom and status. Has the car become a burden around the consumers neck?

About the Author: Lou Ann Hammond

Lou Ann Hammond is the CEO of Carlist and Driving the Nation. She is the co-host of Real Wheels Washington Post carchat every Friday morning and is the Automotive, energy correspondent for The John Batchelor Show and a Contributor to Automotive Electronics magazine headquartered in Korea. Hammond is a founding member of the Women's World Car of the Year #WWCOTY, and board member of the Women in Automotive. She is a guest contributor for Via Corsa magazine and Vicarious magazine.