WASHINGTON (AP):An auto parts industry association is asking President Barack Obama to consider new ways to help the industry, which is facing a spike in bankruptcies due to the woes of United States automakers.

In a letter to the White House on Wednesday, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association wrote that there was "insufficient capital" available for parts suppliers to rehire workers and acquire raw materials for a possible increase in vehicle production later this year.

"This assistance is vital not only to the ability to manufacture safe, more fuel-efficient vehicles, but also to the long-term economic recovery of this nation," said Bob McKenna, the association's president. The Obama administration set aside US$5 billion in April to help companies that supplied General Motors and Chrysler while the two automakers went through restructuring and bankruptcy.

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Harley-Davidson motorcycles for India

NEW YORK (AP):

Harley-Davidson Inc said Thursday it will begin selling motorcycles next year in India, the world's second-largest motorcycle market, where the company hopes its iconic, heavyweight bikes will find a niche among the country's rising middle class.

The Milwaukee-based company said it has established a subsidiary near Delhi and has begun scouting the country for dealers.

"Given the rapid development of India's economy and physical infrastructure, this is exactly the right time to bring the world's greatest motorcycles to one of the world's largest motorcycling nations," said Mark Levatich, Harley's chief operating officer, in a statement.

India is the world's largest market for motorcycles behind China, but it is overwhelmingly dominated by smaller, inexpensive bikes used primarily for transportation, said Dilip Chenoy, director general of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.