Chevy Malibu and Buick Encore were among the new models GM began selling in China last year.
General Motors sold its one-millionth vehicle in China on today, the earliest it has ever done this in a calendar year. GM first sold 1 million vehicles in a single year in China in December 2007. Last year, GM reached the milestone on May 7. This year it came two weeks sooner – and the earliest in the company’s history.
With total overall light vehicle sales projected at more than 20 million for 2013, China will easily retain its title as the world’s largest auto market followed by the U.S. at more than 15 million.
GM has led sales in China for eight consecutive years, but during 2012 it just barely stayed as Number One at 2.84 million vehicles because the VW Group, China’s Number Two automaker, sold 2.81 million vehicles, a +24.5% increase compared to 2011. Whether GM can hold the lead in China this year remains an open question.
GM and its joint ventures are adding 17 new and upgraded models in China this year. They include the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback; the new Wuling Sunshine; two new Jiefang light-duty trucks, the S230 and F330; and the Insignia Sports Tourer, Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC from Opel.
GM is also expanding its dealer network to make it easier for its customers in China to buy and service their vehicles. It is adding 400 dealers this year, which will bring to 4,200 the number of dealers at year-end.
“This is a great start to the year and a big accomplishment for our team,” said Bob Socia, president, GM China, and Chief Country Operations Officer, China, India and ASEAN. “We will continue bringing new products and expanding our dealerships to boost sales.”
