December 3, 2008 UAW announces new concessions to avoid collapse Play video

(NECN/ABC) - The Big Three U.S. automakers are making a run for their money. The top executives of Ford, GM and Chrysler are on a pilgrimage back to Washington, where they will try again tomorrow to get a multi-billion dollar bailout from Congress.

The Big Three auto industry CEOs are driving to Capitol Hill in fuel-efficient cars, as opposed to flying on jets, to ask for a $34 billion lifeline -- an increase from the $25 billion in government aid they originally requested. The companies say Chapter 11 is not an option. But, some lawmakers are skeptical.

The automakers have provided detailed business models, demanded by Congress. They include: developing more fuel-efficient vehicles, reducing CEO salaries and cutting thousands from their payrolls.

But, union leaders say their ranks have already been cut in half since 2003.

The UAW announced its willing to change its contract with the automakers. They're also prepared to delay billions of dollars in payments to a union-run health care program.

ABC's Viviana Hurtado reports.