US auto sales in reverse, plunge to 26-year low

WASHINGTON: US auto sales came crashing down to 26-year low, following global recession devastating the economy.Consumers frightened by the prospect of losing their jobs stayed away from auto showrooms again in January and sent U.S. car and truck sales falling 38 percent, a familiar refrain for the struggling industry but an unwelcome start to a critical year for U.S. carmakers.Sales fell 49 percent at General Motors and 40 percent at Ford, while Chrysler sales dropped to 55 percent.