Nation and world digest

NATION

AutoNation to increase orders for vehicles

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — AutoNation Inc. said Wednesday it will increase vehicle orders in the fourth quarter as it seeks to restock showroom floors emptied out during the Cash for Clunkers program.

The Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based auto retailer said it would boost orders 50 percent in the fourth quarter from the third quarter. The company also ordered more cars than expected in the third quarter.

AutoNation, the nation’s largest dealership chain, said it sold 13,000 vehicles during the clunkers program that began in late July and extended into August.

Bobcat to shutter Bismarck, N.D., plant

BISMARCK, N.D. — Bobcat Co., which makes small loaders and light-construction equipment, announced Wednesday its Bismarck plant will be closed permanently and the bulk of the 475 jobs shifted to its plant in Gwinner in southeastern North Dakota.

Rich Goldsbury, president of Bobcat Americas, said the move was spurred by a weak worldwide economy and sluggish sales for the West Fargo-based company.

Associated Press