Good News for the D. Big 3 Sales Continue to Rise. Chrysler Soars.
The news from our core local industry continues to brighten. For Chrysler, in particular, the news is very encouraging. Domestic auto makers share is increasing and production for 2012 is predicted to rise to 13.8 million for an over one million increase over the past improved year.
No doubt somewhat related is that statewide unemployment has dropped to 8.5% and Metro D's to 9.5%.
Quote:
Chrysler sales up 37% in December; Ford posts 10% gain; GM sees 5% uptick
Chrysler said today sales of new cars and trucks in the U.S. increased 37% in December compared to the same month a year ago, likely ensuring it will have the industry’s largest increase for all of 2011 among major automakers.
The Auburn Hills automaker said it sold 138,019 vehicles in December, marking its best month since May 2008.
Ford gained a more modest 10% increase in December from a year ago on sales of 210,140 with the Ford brand responsible for the majority of the gains while Lincoln was up marginally. For the year, the automaker is up 11%.
The Ford brand’s full-year sales of 2 million led the company to a 3-point market share gain over three consecutive years for the first time since 1970.
General Motors reported a smaller 5% increase for the month for a total of 234,351 vehicles sold. The largest of the Detroit automakers ended the year with a 14% increase over 2011 and stronger market share.
Link to full Freep article
