Holden Confirms New Small Car Model

General Motors' Australian division Holden today confirmed plans to design a new small car model in Australia, along with the currently Commodore line-up, often regarded as the best-selling range in Holden's series. The Australian carmaker says the new model will be based on GM's Delta small car platform and will be particularly focused on fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. Featuring a front-wheel drive system, the forthcoming car will be available in two body configurations, namely a sedan and a hatchback and will be initially equipped with a gasoline-powered engine. Hybrids and diesel versions may also arrive in the near future, Holden said.

"Together with Government, we are extending the scope and consumer appeal of our local manufacturing efforts. We have been building Holden cars to suit the needs of Australian motorists for 60 years. These plans build on that tradition. We recognize the needs and desires of motorists are evolving with growing concern around environmental factors and shifting consumer sentiment,” GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss, explained.

The new model will be exclusively produced by GM's Holden Elizabeth manufacturing facility in South Australia, with design and engineering to take place in Port Melbourne, Victoria.

"Producing this vehicle will continue Australia's proud history of innovation as part of the GM group's broader commitment to energy diversity. I thank the Australian Federal Government and Government of South Australia for their commitment to manufacturing in the Asia Pacific region,” GM Group Vice President and Asia Pacific President, Nick Reilly, stated.

According to a statement released to the press, building a new model represents a real opportunity for the local production facility as the whole program will require between 500 and 600 employees, with approximately 500 supplier positions to be generated.