Compacts pull ahead in auto slump

China Automobile Manufacturers' Association, reporting overall vehicle sales down 7.7% in the first quarter, said sales of compacts dominated in March. The association said the top sellers were led by Hyundai Motor's Elantra, followed by Tianjin FAW Xiali Auto's "TJ7101U", and Chery Auto's "QQ". Officials blamed the slump on the government ordered credit squeeze.