Automakers Bounce Back

Don’t tell Toyota, but automakers are posting gains again—even GM! Ford sales grew 24.6 percent in January and GM sales grew 14 percent. Mercedes-Benz sales skyrocketed 45.3 percent. But sales for Toyota, which is plagued by a recall and sales suspension, dropped 16 percent. Toyota has suspended sales and production of eight of its most popular models due to problems with the pedals; these cars make up almost 10 percent of total U.S. retail sales.