- Africa and Middle East continue to shine amongst International markets
- Chrysler achieved its best year ever outside North America in 2007, surpassing the previous sales record set 10 years ago
- Year-to-date sales increased 15 % over the 2006
- December 2007 sales grew 6 % over same month last year
- Unprecedented 31 consecutive months of year-over-year sales growth
Zwartkop, Pretoria – Chrysler achieved record sales outside North America in 2007 (238 218 units), outselling any previous year in the Company’s history. This was an increase of 15 % compared with total year sales in 2006, and set another record for the company with more than two and a half years of consecutive month-over-month sales growth. For the month of December, sales grew 6 % (22 004 units) compared to the same month last year.
“On behalf of our leadership team, I would like to extend my personal thanks and appreciation to Chrysler’s International network Worldwide for a very strong 2007,” Bob Nardelli, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said. “This impressive performance in markets outside North America is a great demonstration of what can be done when all of our global brand custodians and partners come together.”
Chrysler LLC sells and services vehicles in more than 125 countries around the world. Sales outside North America currently account for more than 9 % of the Company’s total global sales, up from 6 % in the year 2000.
All of the sales regions outside North America posted gains for the year. The Middle East / Africa region led the growth with a 64 % increase over 2006. South Africa remained in the top ten Chrysler International markets with significant sellers locally including the Dodge Caliber and Chrysler Voyager. The Jeep brand additionally continues to be a best selling icon and is well-suited to meet the needs of a wide variety of customers. The brand has achieved continued success in 2007, as have the many models in our lineup, and the momentum is set to continue as more customers have access to the Jeep brand’s legendary vehicles.
“Chrysler SA’s expanding product offensive has meant that South African’s were able to buy into an ever increasing range of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge models.” comments Guy Franken, Chrysler SA’s national brand manager. “In 2007 we launched Jeep Compass, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, as well as Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Nitro. It was a year in which we consolidated our sales position, we are immensely proud of our top ten position internationally, and entrenched ourselves as purveyors of vehicles representing desirable quality at affordable prices.” continued Guy. “In 2008, we will continue this product offensive with new offerings from Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge in South Africa with our three brands, 15 models and 55 derivatives. Our intention is to build on our already solid reputation for service and product excellence in line with our innovative marketing and sales campaigns.”
