Media Europe

Record 1.2 million Chevrolets sold in third quarter of 2011

2011-10-20

Back to overview ...

Print   |  Word   |  Share This   | 

DETROIT – Chevrolet sold 1.2 million vehicles globally in the third quarter, the best July-to-September results in the brand's 100-year history. In the first nine months of 2011, Chevrolet sold 3.6 million vehicles globally, positioning the brand for its best-ever calendar-year sales.

"Nine months of record sales is a great testament to the strength of Chevrolet's products and service," said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet global marketing and strategy. "That success would not be possible without first connecting with new customers individually – no matter where they live – listening to their needs, and then welcoming them to the Chevrolet family."

That customer-focused approach is best illustrated by the successful U.S. launch of the Cruze compact sedan. Chevrolet sold more than 175,000 Cruzes worldwide in the third quarter of 2011, fueled by U.S. and China sales growth. More than 970,000 Cruzes have been sold since it was introduced in early 2009, and the 1 millionth Cruze is expected to sell by the end of October.

"One million people have chosen a Cruze in less than three years," said Perry. "That success was made possible by offering customers around the world more than they expected in a compact car. Going forward, we will apply that same customer-focused approach to every new Chevrolet car, truck, MPV and utility vehicle."

The Cruze is part of a wave of new models from Chevrolet, including the Spark mini car, all-new Aveo/Sonic small car, and Orlando MPV. They will soon be joined globally by the all-new Chevrolet Malibu midsize car and the all-new Colorado compact pickup which go on sale later this year. The Malibu began production this week in Korea and the Colorado earlier this month in Thailand.

Chevrolet posted double-digit sales gains for the third quarter in 20 markets throughout Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. (see chart).

The strength of Chevrolet's global presence has helped the brand significantly outpace the rest of the global industry. Chevrolet's doubled the industry growth rate for the third quarter: Chevrolet sales were up 13.8 percent over the same period a year ago, compared to a 3.9 percent gain for the industry. Chevrolet tripled the industry growth rate for the first nine months of the year: Chevrolet sales were up 14.4 percent compared to a 4.5 percent gain for the industry.

 About Chevrolet

Chevrolet is General Motors' largest global brand with annual sales of about 4 million vehicles in more than 130 countries. It is the fourth biggest global car brand in terms of sales and also one of the fastest growing brands in the world. Chevrolet cars combine passion, bold design and practicality. They provide outstanding value for money. After re-launching the brand in Europe in 2005, Chevrolet more than doubled its sales to over 500,000 in 2008. In 2010, Chevrolet grew its market share in Europe to 2.5 percent, selling 477,194 cars. Chevrolet has a network of more than 2,700 dealers and service points in Europe. The Chevrolet line-up includes the Spark city car, the small Aveo, the compact four-door Cruze, the Captiva SUV and the legendary Corvette sports car. In 2011, Chevrolet is launching seven new cars: the all-new Orlando family van, the new Captiva SUV, the Corvette Grand Sport Coupé, the all-new five-door and four-door Aveo, the five-door Cruze, the Camaro coupé and convertible and the award-winning extended-range Volt electric car. Chevrolet's biggest markets in Europe are Russia, Italy, Germany, Spain, France and Turkey. Established in the U.S. by Swiss émigré Louis Chevrolet in 1911, the brand is celebrating its centenary in 2011. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevroleteurope.com or media.chevroleteurope.com.