23.10.2006
GM delivers 2.3 million vehicles in third quarter

GM reported third-quarter global sales (July – September 2006) of 2,296,000 vehicles, supported by the strong performances of global brands Cadillac, Chevrolet, Saab and HUMMER.

Although the overall number marks a 3 percent decrease over the same period a year ago, the difference is largely attributable to a comparison with the results of the "Employee Discount for Everyone" program in North America last year and the planned reduction of daily rental and fleet sales this year.

GM's market share has steadily improved in North America through the year, rising from 23.8 percent in Q1, to 24.1 percent in Q2 to 25.1 percent in Q3.

"Our global brands Cadillac, Chevrolet, Saab and HUMMER continue to show their worldwide strength. We're also seeing outstanding growth through the first nine months of the year for GM brands in emerging markets such as China (up 37 percent); Russia (up 64 percent); and India (up 18 percent)," said John Middlebrook, vice president of global sales, service and marketing.

Chevrolet saw double-digit increases in the most important growth markets around the world, recording year-to-date sales increases in Asia Pacific (27 percent), Latin America and the Middle East (20 percent) and Europe (10 percent). Further growth for the brand is expected with the introduction of the new Chevrolet Silverado full-size pickup truck in North America, and the expanded availability of the Captiva sport utility in Europe, Asia and other select markets.

Saab global year to date sales increased 7 percent compared with year-ago levels, to 104,000 vehicles, helping the brand set a new record for the first nine months of the year. HUMMER sales remain strong with a 54 percent increase year to date, while Cadillac sales in China have shown a powerful improvement so far this year.