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CHRYSLER LLC: International Markets Sell 599,618 Units in 2007
Chrysler LLC posted sales of 599,618 units in 2007 for markets outside the U.S., an 8% increase versus 2006.
In Canada, 232,859 units were sold, a 6% increase while in Mexico, there was an increase of 0.1%, with 128,541 units sold.
"On behalf of our leadership team, I would like to extend my thanks and appreciation to Chrysler's global network for a strong 2007," Bob Nardelli, Chrysler chairman and CEO disclosed.
"This global performance is a great demonstration of what can be done when all of our employees, dealers, distributors and suppliers are fully aligned and focused on meeting the needs of our customers and being competitive in the industry. As we continue to grow globally, it's our proud heritage that will continue to differentiate Chrysler in global markets and resonate with customers worldwide," Mr. Nardelli added.
With the segment that it created, Chrysler LLC remains the minivan leader with Dodge Grand Caravan holding the number one position in the United States with 176,041 units sold in 2007 and ranking second in global sales with 232,000 units sold. With 30,937 units sold outside North America, Dodge Caliber was the highest sales volume vehicle for the company.
"We are fortunate that in a tough industry, customers in the United States, Canada, Mexico and around the world have responded favorably to our Chrysler, Jeepr and more recently, Dodge brands,"Jim Press, Chrysler's vice chairman and president, said. "This is a revitalized organization, moving in the right direction, with a renewed emphasis on putting the global customer first at every step in the process-anxious to serve, proud of the value and quality of our products. I am pleased to say that our global results are beginning to show this."
Sales increases in select markets were driven by the worldwide appeal and strong customer interest in Chrysler's new vehicles, including the Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot. Worldwide sales were down less than one percent during 2007 to 2,676,268 units versus 2,698,429 units in 2006.
Chrysler International Markets
Spurred by demand for new Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge products, Chrysler achieved record sales outside North America in 2007, outselling any previous year in the company's history. Year-to- date sales increased 15% to 238,218 units from 2006 results of 206,925 units. The highest volume markets outside North America were: Italy (21,361 units); Venezuela (19,459 units); and the United Kingdom (18,623 units).
Chrysler Canada
Chrysler Canada sales rose 6% to 232,859 units in 2007 compared with 220,553 units sold in 2006, securing the automaker's position as the No. 2 seller of cars and trucks in Canada. Furthermore, with the introduction of nine new models in 2007, Chrysler Canada's sales growth has exceeded that of the Canadian market by gaining more new customers than any other OEM.
Chrysler Mexico
Posting its best sales year since 2001, Chrysler Mexico sales rose slightly (0.1%) to 128,541 units during 2007. Chrysler Mexico sales and market share have been consistently increasing in a competitive market; this growth has been made possible by the complete product lineup offered by the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands in the Mexican automotive market.
Chrysler U.S. Market
In the United States, Chrysler LLC sold 2,076,650 units in 2007, a decrease of 3% from the 2,142,505 units in 2006. Chrysler LLC continues to invest in new product, including new fuel-efficient powertrains. For 2008, the Company will offer six vehicles with 28 miles per gallon or better highway fuel economy including Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Caliber, Chrysler Sebring Sedan and Chrysler Sebring Convertible. This combined with the best-in-industry Lifetime Powertrain Warranty on Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles is bringing more customers to showrooms.
About Chrysler LLC
Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan, Chrysler LLC -- http://www.chrysler.com/ -- a unit of Cerberus Capital Management LP, produces Chrysler, Jeep(R), Dodge and Mopar(R) brand vehicles and products. The company has dealers worldwide, including Canada, Mexico, U.S., Germany, France, U.K., Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela, China, Japan and Australia.
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As reported in the Troubled Company Reporter on Nov. 12, 2007, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'B' corporate credit rating on Chrysler LLC and DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Americas LLC and removed it from CreditWatch with positive implications, where it was placed Sept. 26, 2007. S&P said the outlook is negative.
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