General Motors Sales Down 45 Percent in March

As if the economic recession and the desperate situation the company currently experiences weren't enough, General Motors is continuously recording very low sales, especially in the United States, often referred to as the most affected side of the market. Overall, General Motors sold 156,380 vehicles in March, down 45 percent compared with a year ago. Nevertheless, 7 of 8 GM brands recorded sales increases of up to 23 percent compared to February, according to official papers provided by the American automaker.

"Sales for GM and the industry showed signs of life at the end of the month compared with January and February. In April, we're stepping up to the plate to get a rally underway with 'GM Total Confidence,' our unprecedented customer protection package," said Mark LaNeve, vice president, GM North America Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing.

GM's total car sales of 68,877 units represented a 41 percent drop compared to March 2008 while truck sales, including crossovers, of 87,503 vehicles were down 47 percent. In terms of green cars, General Motors sold a total of 1,612 hybrid cars last month, which raises the 2009 figures to 3,622 units. Truck sales were increased by nearly 23 percent (11,000 units) while crossover deliveries were up by more than 3,000 vehicles or 12 percent.

"We are encouraged by actions taken by the Federal government to stabilize the industry and stimulate demand. As we continue the reinvention of General Motors, our brands are adding even more world-class, fuel-efficient cars and crossovers to their portfolios. We will also continue to add even more fuel economy technology to our trucks."

Chevrolet sales were up 25 percent compared to February figures, with car and trucks deliveries increased by 28 and 25 percent, respectively.