Susan Docherty: "We’re Not Declaring Victory … But We’re Here to Report Progress."

We’re Not Declaring Victory … But We’re Here to Report Progress

Vice President, US Sales                                                                                                                                                                                  

Today, we reported October sales for the new GM of 177,603 units, up four percent from last October – our first US sales gain in 21 months. Retail sales were up 15 percent for the same period. So, while no one is declaring victory … we are seeing signs of progress.

Our estimated share of the US market for October was 21 percent.   That was better than September and significantly better than last October. With 95 percent of our retail sales for the month attributed to Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac, our sales mix is healthier than it was with eight brands.  Importantly, our six newest products (Equinox, Camaro, Traverse, LaCrosse, Terrain, and SRX) are off to a great start, showing improvement in traffic and sales compared to the models they replaced.  Camaro has outsold the Ford Mustang five months in a row; Equinox and Terrain are gaining share in the crossover segment; LaCrosse is bringing younger buyers to Buick; and SRX had the best month in its history.
We know we have a lot of work to do to earn consumer trust, change perceptions about our company and products, and strengthen relationships.  And, while we’re encouraged by consumer acceptance of our new vehicles and our October results, no one is celebrating.
We will continue to work hard every day to make our customers our top priority – and that means offering cars and trucks they “gotta have,” and giving them the service they deserve.
Stay tuned, and let us know what you think of our new products.
SOURCE: 

 NOVEMBER 3, 2009-BY JOHN KELL

October U.S. Sales Rose at GM, Ford Chrysler's Fell 30% While Toyota Sales Were Flat

U.S. car sales posted strong results in October, with Ford Motor Co. maintaining its recent standout performance with a 3.3% increase and General Motors Co. seeing 4.7% growth, its first since January 2008.

But laggard Chrysler Group LLC continued to struggle, with October sales falling 30%. Toyota Motor Corp. and Nissan Motor Co., meantime, said sales for the month were marginally higher.

U.S. auto sales last month delivered more concrete signs the economy is on the mend. Excluding July and August, when sales were boosted by cash-for clunkers rebates, October sales hit the highest rate of 2009—the mid 10-million range ...

WSJ Chart Published End Of Sept.09

The Badge

Great news. “May the best car win” campaign working. Dearly hope this very trend in sales will continue and GM will be able put back the ‘GM/Mark Of Excellence’ badges on its great products, leaving no doubts in the minds of consumers. Fascinating job done by all  in the new management. Congratulations… Talking about the 'badge', I had to go back in time and fetch a few facts that are worth to keep in mind. Some may even trigger a smile while reading iff you would care to go thru...CLICK 4 more... /MT