DETROIT — The Detroit automakers are using third-quarter financial results as initial proof that decisions to rejigger operations and slash car production were the right moves to remain profitable in a declining, crossover-heavy U.S. market.
General Motors, Ford Motor Co. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles each last week reported better-than-expected results, including each posting North American profit margins of at least 8 percent for the first time since the 2008-09 recession. That's despite flat or lower sales and revenue.