CUVs to Rule North American Output

Since the mid-1980s, midsize cars and more recently pickup trucks have ranked as the most heavily produced vehicle segment in North America.

The arrival of the cross/utility vehicle, however, is changing that dynamic.

CUVs have existed as a segment only since the ’00 model year, but the latest Ward’s production forecast shows CUV output will exceed all other segments by 2009 and continue to gain share through 2012.

The advent of the CUV, which classifies as a ...