GENERAL MOTORS SOUTH AFRICA (GMSA) sold a total of 6515 new vehicles in December against a backdrop of a significantly reduced end of year market. This good showing by GMSA resulted in a year-best monthly market share of 15,6 percent. GMSA passenger vehicles sold 2764 units, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) 3502 and trucks the balance.
Said Malcolm Gauld, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for GMSA; “We are pleased with our retail performance during December, a month with fewer trading days as South Africans typically take their annual holiday.
The downward trend in the new passenger vehicle market continued in December and the year ended some 10% down on 2006. Light commercial vehicles remained buoyant and ended the year 2% up on the 2006 figure, a sign of continued investment in the commercial sector.”
Highlights include the following from the Chevrolet brand:
- 300 Captivas, continuing the trend of 300 monthly sales or more since launch.
- 850 Aveo and Optra. Building a reputation for value and reliable motoring
The Opel brand had another stellar month:
- Passenger units (Corsa, Astra, Zafira, Meriva, Tigra) – 1251 vehicles
- Corsa Utility with 1765 units.
Isuzu sales:
- With the run-out of the outgoing Isuzu KB model hampering supply, some 1702 units were sold. The effect of the recently-launched NEW KB should be seen in the first quarter of 2008.
Premium brand sales amounted to a total of 118 units from the Saab, HUMMER and Cadillac brands.
“On the back of continued inflationary pressures and the negative effect on private disposable income , we anticipate a competitive market place through the first six months of 2008. This competitive market place should result in aggressive trading by dealers presenting an opportunity of great deals for consumers.” concluded Gauld.
