The North American Automobile Market Report & Review includes the following:
Monthly Dashboard:
Monthly sales for light vehicles down x% YoY after the CARS incentive program’s sales boost in August. The YTD sales still way down by x% as compared to 2008 numbers for the same period. GM & Chrysler saw a sales downfall of x% on a YoY basis. The Korean twins, Hyundai & Kia were the only ones with numbers out of red with Hyundai witnessing a sales growth of x% & Kia x% during an extremely difficult period for the industry.
Competitive Landscape:
GM maintained the market leadership with 21% market share as against 29% in September 2008 followed by Toyota notching up 17%. The Big 3 lost x% market share on a YoY basis while Asian OEMs gained 6.7%.
Production Outlook:
The light vehicle production in North America contracted by 11% in September compared to Sept. 2008 levels while the Jan-Sept production in 2009 plummeted by 43% as against the same period in 2008. GM raises production outlook for the Q4 adding a third shift at its three assembly plants in the US and will lead to restoration of 2400 jobs.
Market Watch (Further Updates available in the Report):
GM offers a 60-day trial period for customers titled 'Satisfaction Guarantee' as per which the customers can return the vehicle if they disapprove it within 31-60 days. The move is intended to corroborate consumer confidence. Initial reviews indicate a positive response to the move. GM ties up with Reva, the leading India based electric vehicle manufacturer to jointly develop electric vehicles, platforms & technologies. Rift between the dealer groups and GM, Chrysler continues over termination of dealership contracts Mazda to launch its small car Mazda2 by late 2010. The move is a part of Mazda’s strategic focus on improving fuel efficiency of its line-up.
Technology Focus:
Ford showcases state of the art Four cylinder eco-boost engine series at the Frankfurt auto show. The engine series has contributed to 125 new U.S. patents.
