Chrysler Group U.S. Sales Up 10% in October

Chrysler Group today reported U.S. sales of 126,185 units, a 10% increase compared with sales in October 2011 (114,512 units) It was the Group’s best October sales since 2007, and it appeared consistent with industry growth of 8% based on preliminary sales numbers.

The Chrysler (22,000 +5%), Dodge (41,000 +20%), Ram Truck (26,000 +17%) and Fiat (3,77 +89%) brands posted year-over-year sales gains in October compared with the same month a year ago. The Fiat brand’s increase to was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month, albeit from a tiny 2,000 unit base number in October 2011.

The month once again saw large increases in small car sales now running at more than 21% of the industry because of high fuel prices. The Dodge Dart, at 5,500 sold as production ramps up and the most fuel efficient versions soon available, is Chrysler’s best entry in history in the compact car segment and is ideally positioned.

This likely will allow the Japanese Three with their always formidable and now refreshed  small car lineups to post sales gains later today. Nevertheless, October marked Chrysler Group’s 31st consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains with its heavy reliance on minivans and pickup trucks and Jeep. 

“In spite of Hurricane Sandy, Chrysler Group posted its best October sales since 2007 and we achieved our 31st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “Last month we also further demonstrated our disciplined approach to sales growth by posting a Q3 2012 operating profit of $706 million, an increase of 46% over Q3 2011.”