click here to print close window

3.3.2003
GM Europe in Geneva: Multi-brand product drive in high gear

GM demonstrates at the 73rd Geneva Motor Show that its aggressive global product offensive continues. Clustering all brands of the family together, GM featured the product highlights from Opel/Vauxhall, Saab, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Daewoo and Hummer.

A strong product focus is the key element in strengthening the position of GME. Including new models and variants and a significantly expanded powertrain line-up, GME will offer no less than 70 new products over a five-year period. The first of these hit the market successfully in 2002. The strength of these new products, combined with an intense quality focus across the line-up, is translating into positive market share development, with year-over-year share increases in five of the past six months. GME is building on this sales momentum as it drives for break-even in 2003 and growth beyond.

2003 started on a strong note with year-over-year sales increases in Germany and for the European market in total. Despite the overall European industry being down over 5.5 percent, GME sales climbed over 4 percent in January versus 2002 and February is shaping up to be another solid month for the company.

World, European and Swiss Premieres at Geneva include:

  • Saab 9-3 Convertible - World Premiere of Saab's Halo Car with Distinctive Scandinavian design, improved driving appeal and high functionality.
  • Opel/Vauxhall Signum - World Premiere to break through conventional segment barriers and opne an entirely new market, the Signum Class
  • Opel/Vauxhall Meriva - Swiss Premiere of the smart five-seater which sets a new benchmark in interior versatility.
  • Speedster/VX220 Turbo - World Premiere of the super-car for driving enthusiasts to spice-up the driving experience - going from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.9 seconds.
  • Opel/Vauxhall GTC Genève concept - World Premiere of a vehicle that offers a sense of the companies future design direction for compact cars.
  • Daewoo Nubira - Swiss Premiere of the European version of the Lacetti. With its Italian styling, proven technology and comprehensive equipment package at very affordable prices, the Nubira is everything Daewoo stands for.
  • Cadillac 2004 XLR - European Premiere of a two-seat, retractable-hardtop convertible that delivers exhilarating style and performance to the luxury roadster class.
  • Cadillac Sixteen - European Premiere of a super luxury Cadillac V16. The "Sixteen" is both a reminder of a rich past and a progressive statement with its striking design, heroic proportions, remarkable technology and craftsmanship.

In addition, GM showcases its legacy of powertrain and concept vehicle development and its vision for the path to sustainable transportation embodied in the Hy-wire concept vehicle on a dedicated show stand.

Socrates Europe will highlight each of the World, European and Swiss Premieres in upcoming newsline stories.