Chevrolet sales up 10.9 per cent despite troubled European economy

With more than 117,500(1) cars sold in the first six months of this year, which represents an increase of 10.9 per cent, Chevrolet recorded its best-ever volume and market share in Western and Central Europe(2). Industry sales were down by 7.7 per cent during the

same period. Chevrolet Europe's volume was up 11,500 vehicles, compared to the first six months of 2011, while market share was up 0.24 points at a record 1.43 per cent. In Western Europe, Chevrolet sales were up 12 per cent at 92,400 cars and SUVs.

"In the current economic climate, European customers are more value-conscious than ever. They are turning to Chevrolet in record numbers because we are giving them what they need: distinctive design and all the equipment they are looking for at a price they can afford. In short, a lot of car for their money," said Susan Docherty, President of Chevrolet Europe.

In the first half of 2012, Chevrolet sales were up in 19 countries and enjoyed particularly strong growth in the following countries (sorted by increase in units):

Country	Units sold	Increase
The Netherlands	7,800	+3,640 units/88 per cent
Poland	6,500	+2,860 units/79 per cent
Italy	19,800	+2,110 units/12 per cent
UK	8,810	+1,870 units/27 per cent
France	14,950	+1,630 units/12 per cent
Germany	16,140	+1,010 units/7 per cent
Belgium	3,320	+860 units/35 per cent
Switzerland	2,080	+390 units/23 per cent
Austria	2,620	+370 units/16 per cent

Chevrolet recorded its best-ever market share, for the January to June period, in the following eight countries - Poland (3.70 per cent), Turkey (2.78 per cent), The Netherlands (2.09 per cent), Estonia (1.78 per cent), Austria (1.25 per cent), France (1.17 per cent), Belgium (0.94 per cent) and Germany (0.90 per cent). 

Chevrolet's best-selling vehicle in Europe in the first six months of 2012 was the Chevrolet Aveo city car, with sales of 34,310 units. Aveo was followed by the Chevrolet Spark mini car of which 32,010 units were sold. Chevrolet sold 21,000 Cruzes (sedan and hatchback) in Western and Central Europe. Cruze continues to be Chevrolet's best-selling model globally and sales are expected to grow even further as the station wagon will hit European showrooms later this summer. Chevrolet sold 14,300 Orlando minivans and 13,820 Captiva SUVs. The diesel version of the Malibu mid-size sedan will also arrive at dealerships later this summer.

(1) Preliminary registration figures – total vehicle market (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles)

(2) Includes 39 countries: EU27 plus Andorra, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Iceland, Macedonia, Montenegro, Norway, Serbia, Switzerland, and Turkey

Posted in: Chevrolet,Chevrolet Europe,International,Sale Report,Susan Docherty