Automotive leaders are cognizant of the lasting impact of rising gas prices on the minds of consumers. The focus right now is on producing fuel-efficient vehicles that will meet consumer demand.

That large a group said 'yes' is somewhat telling.

Auto execs are grappling with the dynamics of increased competition, rising commodity and healthcare costs and the need to invest in new manufacturing facilities. All of this is leading to a rather bleak outlook on profitability through the rest of this decade and a trend toward greater consolidation.

Automotive execs in our survey have been predicting market share advances by Asian brands for years now. Asian brands have been successful at bringing the right product to the market quickly while being flexible in their manufacturing processes to respond to changes in demand.

Automotive executives in our survey have been predicting market share advances by Asian brands for years now.

The rise in gas prices due to Hurricane Katrina left a lasting impression on the minds of consumers.