A new incentive scheme offered by GM to dealers highlights the downward trend in light-truck purchases over the last 12 months.

GM is assisting dealers to discount purchase prices by up to $1000 after sales slumped more than 22% in July. Slower sales have also meant that production has been slowed down at more than 6 light truck plants across North America.

While nobody wants the families involved in the production of light trucks to lose their jobs - it is an interesting trend. Heavy vehicle usage (including SUV) has been trending down slightly over the last couple of years. We are yet to see this result in an appreciable uptake of more fuel-efficient vehicles - but the potential is still definitely there.

GM has big opportunities going forward to look at the fuel efficiency of its vehicles. Making small changes could have a big impact, and lead the way for other US retailers.