WINDSOR, Ont. (Nov. 6, 2001) — The Big Three automakers yesterday warned that delays at the border crossing linking Windsor, Ont., and Detroit are hurting their ability to maintain just-in-time production.

Representatives of DaimlerChrysler, Ford, and General Motors, as well as automotive and transportation industry groups, met with a U.S. congressional delegation in Windsor to discuss ways to improve border efficiency.

They were especially critical of traffic and customs management at the Ambassador Bridge, which carries nearly 4700 trucks a day. Many are delivering parts to assembly plants and finished vehicles across the border.

They said tighter border controls following the attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., have only exacerbated a growing concern.

“These problems have existed for some time. Sept. 11 just made them a crisis,” said Kevin Smith, director of customs for General Motors. With trucks delayed at border points following the attacks, automakers shut down plants due to a lack of parts. The cost was an estimated $25,000 US a minute in lost production.

The panelists advocated pre-clearance of low-risk drivers, loads, and shippers who frequently cross the border — similar to CanadaÕs Customs Self-Assessment program. They also called for more inland customs and immigration inspections.

The auto industry accounts for 25% of the $1.4 billion a day in U.S.- Canada trade.