KC auto workers support Bush's push for fuel-efficient cars

CLAYCOMO, Mo. (AP) -- President Bush made a rare visit to two auto manufacturing plants that produce hybrid vehicles, as he continued his recent push for production of more fuel-efficient vehicles.

The president, who offended some automakers last year when he said they needed to make "a product that's relevant," visited the General Motors' Fairfax plant in Kansas City, Kan., and Ford Motor Co.'s Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo.

Both plants produce hybrid vehicles, which would help meet the president's goal of reducing U.S. fuel demand by 20 percent during the next decade.

The GM plant assembles the Saturn Aura and the Aura Green Line, which is an electric-gasoline hybrid. The Ford plant makes the hybrid versions of the Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs.

Workers at the Claycomo plant said they were proud to show off the innovative vehicles they produce on the outskirts of Kansas City.

"It's nice to be able to tell the world that in Kansas City we build the future of vehicles," said Jim Stoufer, president of United Auto Workers Union Local 249, which represents 4,700 plant workers.

"It's a chance for us to shine," Stoufer said before the president's arrival at the plant.

Richard Bock, who has worked at the plant 42 years, said he hoped Bush has some concrete ideas about what automakers can do to stay relevant and competitive.

"I'm just glad he's concerned," said Bock, 61. "I hope he's here to help us."

Earlier in the day, White House press secretary Tony Snow was asked whether the president still felt U.S. auto companies were not making "relevant" products.

Snow did not address the point directly but said the president was visiting the two facilities because they were examples of plants that were adjusting "to the changing competitive challenges around the world."