GM, Chrysler seek more Govt. assistance

The US auto industry needs even more help from the government to survive than originally thought.

General Motors on Tuesday said it could need up to $30 billion from the Treasury Department to keep operating. Included in that amount is $13.4 billion the company has already received. Previously, GM had said it could need as much as $18 billion. General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC said Tuesday they'll need billions more in government loans than they predicted just two months ago.

The two automakers also plan further job cuts and additional curtailment of auto production.

Both companies plan to reduce the number of models they offer to car buyers over the next few years. - DETROIT