GM Canada June 2008 Sales Results

 (Data is not adjusted for the difference in selling days;
June  2008 had 24 selling days vs. June 2007 with 27 selling days)

Oshawa, Ontario (July 2, 2008) – For June 2008, General Motors of Canada dealers delivered 32,355 units, down 23.8% from a year ago.

“GM Canada's June sales reflected the significant ongoing market impact of rising gas prices and the resulting further consumer shift toward cars and smaller crossovers,” said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing.  “GM is shifting production and adjusting on the ground inventories to address demand for our hot selling fuel efficient cars like the Pontiac Wave and G5, the Saturn Astra and Aura, the Chevrolet Aveo, Malibu and our own Oshawa built Chevrolet Impala, which all performed exceptionally well in June.” 

Comeau added, “While we work to adjust inventories, GM is very well positioned in the Canadian market with the broadest range of vehicles that achieve better than 7L/100 km on the highway and by the end of this year we will have more hybrid models in the market than any other automaker."

June Sales Highlights

The award winning Chevrolet Malibu continues a trend of strong results, up 60.6% for June and 99.5% calendar year to date.

  • GM is making solid gains with our line-up of small fuel efficient cars with the Chevrolet Aveo and Pontiac Wave up 4.5% for the month despite low inventory levels and 36.3% calendar-year-to-date.
  • Chevrolet Impala continues to perform well with sales up 38.1% for the month.
  • Pontiac G6 saw double digit gains up 20.2% for the month and 34.2% calendar year to date.
  • Cadillac cars were up a total of 51.4% for the month, driven by strong performance from the CTS and DTS.
  • GMs family of crossover SUVs remain strong with the fuel efficient Chevrolet HHR up 8.8% for the year and the GMC Acadia up 8.2%.  The Buick Enclave has grown 466% from when it started production just over a year ago.

 

GENERAL MOTORS OF CANADA SALES

MONTH OF JUNE 2008

 

2008

2007

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

18,122

20,455

-11.5%

TOTAL TRUCKS

14,243

22,011

-35.3%

COMBINED VEHICLES

32,355

42,466

-23.8%

 

CALENDAR YEAR-TO-DATE: June 30th, 2008

 

2008

2007

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

98,440

98,763

-0.3%

TOTAL TRUCKS

92,199

116,162

-20.6%

COMBINED VEHICLES

190,639

214,925

-11.3%

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 15,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 732 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

-30-

For further information, contact:
Patty Faith
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

General Motors of Canada Update On CAW Blockade

June 9, 2008 (Oshawa, ON) - GM Canada today confirmed that, following ongoing discussions with the CAW over the past several days, it will take action today to seek collaborative or such necessary legal means required to end the ongoing blockade of its Canadian Headquarters allowing the company to reasonably continue conducting its business in Canada.  GM Canada lost some vehicle production this past Saturday as a result of other CAW actions in Oshawa.

GM will continue to seek all opportunities to work together with the CAW on productive approaches.  This includes working together to seek additional car production in Oshawa that is aligned with consumer demand caused by new record fuel prices and vehicle market realities. GM already produces the Chevrolet Impala in Oshawa and plans to launch additional new models this year and over the coming years.

GM also reaffirms that throughout prior agreements the recent unprecedented accelerated bargaining with the CAW and in the final agreement with the CAW, it was understood and agreed by both parties that commitments with respect to Oshawa Truck were "dependent upon market demand".  It was also understood that these commitments could be impacted by the "increasingly uncertain North America truck market and regulatory environment" and that GM's overall product mix is constantly changing as a result of factors that are beyond the scope of responsibility and control of the parties involved.

GM acknowledges that the tough decision to cease production at the truck plant in 2009 is difficult for all parties involved, especially its employees.  The company has determined that it cannot continue to build the same volumes of large trucks in light of current structural shift to higher fuel prices.

GM will continue to seek to work together with the CAW on steps to assist impacted employees.  GM Canada officials made it clear that they are willing to meet with CAW leaders to continue discussions to seek additional car production in Oshawa that is aligned with consumer demand, record fuel prices and vehicle market realities.  GM continues to increase its North American car and crossover production in response to market changes and offers customers the widest range of small fuel efficient cars and the widest selection of hybrid vehicles. GM has also announced its plans to produce the extended range electric car, the Chevrolet Volt for sale starting in 2010.
                                                                             -30-


Contact:
Stew Low
416-254-4224

 

GM Canada Expands 2008 Buick Lineup with Super Editions of the Popular Lucerne and Allure Sedans

Oshawa, Ontario (April 28, 2008) – GM Canada announced today that Buick will increase its 2008 lineup with two new models available at dealerships now.  The Lucerne Super and Allure Super reflect Buick’s commitment to bringing a greater variety of premium products to its customers.  

“Lucerne and Allure Super models epitomize Buick’s new level of refinement that is drawing new customers to Buick,” said Marc Comeau, vice president of sales, service and marketing for GM of Canada.  “Additionally, the Buick Allure is built right here in Oshawa at our quality award winning car assembly plant.”

Lucerne Super
Lucerne Super builds further on Buick’s tradition of delivering luxury, refined power and performance. It’s powered by the 4.6L Northstar V-8 engine that delivers 292 horsepower (218 kW) @ 6300 rpm and 288 lb.-ft. of torque (390 Nm) @ 4500 rpm. Further augmenting its driving character, Lucerne Super also features:

  • New premium steering components for more precise steering and a higher level of responsiveness
  • Higher-rate front and rear coil springs for improved stability and control
  • Larger front stabilizer bar for improved roll control
  • Magnetic Ride Control technology – recalibrated for even more driver control and performance, while further reducing body roll in cornering and lane changes
  • Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels shod with P245/50R18 all-season radials

 

Exterior Lucerne Super enhancements include new grille and front fascia, new rocker panels, new rear fascia, new exhaust tips and “Super” badge on the decklid. Lucerne Super is available exclusively in the following exterior colors: Dark Mocha Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic and White Diamond Tricoat.

Inside, Lucerne Super features a leather-wrapped instrument panel upper with French seam stitching; suede trim on the doors and on the standard heated and cooled front seats; heated real walnut wood-accented steering wheel; walnut wood shifter; a Nova Silver finish for the center stack; model-specific sill plates and premium floor mats. Additional premium amenities include a 280-watt, nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system that includes a six-disc CD changer and MP3 player.

Lucerne Super customers may also opt for touch screen navigation; sunroof; Side Blind Zone and Lane Departure Warning safety-enhancing technologies; and 18-inch chrome wheels. Lucerne Super is available exclusively in Cocoa/Shale or Ebony interior trim and features a $47,690 MSRP.

Allure Super

Allure Super includes such design elements as a new waterfall grille, new hood and a new front fascia that incorporates a lower grille opening with chrome trim and chrome fog lamp bezels.  It also includes new portholes - four per side - rocker moldings, rear fascia with integrated park assist sensors, 3.5-inch-diameter dual chrome exhaust tips, rear decklid spoiler and a Super badge.  Starting MSRP for the Allure Super is $38,765.

Under the new hood lies Allure Super’s robust 5.3L V-8 small-block rated at 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 323-lb.ft (438 Nm) of torque, helping the Allure Super go from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The 5.3L small-block V-8 uses GM's Active Fuel Management (AFM), an engine technology that seamlessly switches between four- and eight-cylinder power to save fuel.

To support the performance capabilities enabled by the V-8 engine, the Allure Super features a specially tuned suspension system for steering precision, improved ride control and feel, and increased braking performance. Bilstein monotube struts, larger front and rear rotors, high-precision steering gear, StabiliTrak, and recalibrated chassis controls help the Allure Super deliver confident handling and road manners, while also maintaining overall ride comfort.

Inside, the Allure Super exudes comfort and style, including front seats with increased seatback bolstering. All of the seats feature new, woven-embossed leather inserts. A unique woodgrain appearance accents the instrument panel, centre console, doors and gearshift knob. There are also exclusive instrument cluster graphics - including Super identification - new front sill plates, a silver finish on the instrument panel centre stack and Super-specific floor mats.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 15,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 732 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:

Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

Pontiac Announces Pricing for All-New Flagship Sport Sedan: G8

Oshawa, Ontario (April 29, 2008) – A rear-wheel-drive Pontiac performance sedan will once again be seen on the streets of Canada.  The all-new 2009 G8 arrives in Pontiac dealerships in June.  The V-6-equipped G8 performance sedan has a starting MSRP of $31,995 and the V-8-powered G8 GT model starts at $36,995.

"Delivering driving character and performance typical of more expensive cars, the new Pontiac G8 will definitely punch above its weight," said Marc Comeau, vice president of sales, service and marketing for GM of Canada.  "With its bold styling, dynamic design and sport-biased set-up, the G8 will be sure to put a smile on the face of driving enthusiasts."

The Pontiac G8 includes a long list of unexpected standard equipment in this segment, including: StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control, Driver Shift Control with sport mode, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, remote vehicle start, 6 airbags, power adjustable seats, MP3 input jack, OnStar and XM satellite radio.

One hot design…

The G8’s strong wheels-to-the-corners stance is highlighted with bold wheel flares and a rising beltline.  It is designed with modern performance styling cues blended with a unique Pontiac attitude, thanks to cues like the inset dual port grille, twin hood scoops, projector head lamps, vented front fenders, 18-inch wheels, and a true duel exhaust system with chrome tips.  As well, the G8 GT model sports crystal-clear rear lamp elements and chromed quad exhaust tips.

…Two hot powertrains

The G8 sedan comes equipped with a 3.6L DOHC V-6, generating 256 horsepower (190 kW) and 248 lb.-ft. of torque in a wide power band beginning at a very low 2,100 rpm. Linked to a five-speed Hydra-Matic 5L40E automatic transmission, the V-6-powered G8 is capable of zero-to-100 km/h times of approximately seven seconds.

The GT model ups the ante with the introduction of the 6.0L small-block V-8, with fuel-saving Active Fuel Management technology, producing 361 horsepower (268 kW) and 385 lb.-ft. of torque. Zero-to-100 km/h times of 5.3 seconds are possible with the six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80E automatic transmission linked to a standard limited-slip differential.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 15,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 732 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:
Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

Chevrolet Announces Pricing for the Turbocharged Cobalt SS
A Compact Car That Delivers Fun, Performance & Great Fuel Efficiency

 
Oshawa, Ontario (April 22, 2008) – Powered by a 260-horsepower (194 kW) turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L Ecotec engine, the Cobalt SS coupe delivers a balance of track-proven performance capability, driving refinement and premium features. Offered exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission, it is also an efficient performer, delivering an estimated 6.6 L/100km in highway driving – the best among top competitors.

That combination of performance, efficiency and features comes with an MSRP of $24,995 and arrives at Chevrolet dealers next month. The Cobalt SS is well-equipped at that price, including standard air conditioning, side-impact air bags, Pioneer premium sound system, remote keyless entry, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, and OnStar.  SS-specific features include distinctive exterior and interior treatments such as new front upper and lower grilles with diamond-mesh appearance, rockers, body side badging, bright tip exhaust outlet, SS-embroidered sport seats with suede-like Ultralux inserts, a specific gauge cluster, A-pillar-mounted turbo boost gauge and specific shifter arrangement.

Popular options include a sunroof ($1,100), high-wing rear spoiler ($275) and a limited-slip differential ($645).

Maximum performance on the street or track

The Cobalt SS delivers a quick 0-100km time of approximately 5.7 seconds – thanks to the engine’s “no-lift shift” calibration – and an impressive maximum lateral grip of 0.9 g. This combination enabled the Cobalt SS to set a new class record when running Germany’s famed Nürburgring racing circuit, posting a time of 8:22.85 minutes.

Ride and handing are supported by an all-new FE5 Sport suspension, with specific stabilizer bars, spring rates and damper tuning – all designed to complement the high-output turbocharged powertrain. Driver-selectable modes help maximize performance whether on the street or track.

Four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS help ensure the car stops as confidently as it accelerates and corners. The front brakes are from Brembo and have a performance-oriented, fixed-caliper design, which resists fade better than floating caliper designs; the rear discs are vented for better heat dissipation. Large, twin-five-spoke 18-inch forged aluminum wheels and performance tires are standard. They’re mounted on 225/40-series Continental summer tires.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 15,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 732 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:

Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

Chevrolet Silverado Named AJAC “2008 Truck of the Year”

Toronto, Ontario (Wednesday, February 13, 2008) GM Canada was today honoured by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), which named the Chevrolet Silverado as its 2008 Truck of the Year.

The recognition results from recent back-to-back driving evaluations of 59 new vehicles at the annual AJAC Test Fest evaluation - the foundation of the Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY) program.  Over 70 of Canada’s top automotive journalists judged this year’s competition, which aims to provide consumers with sound, comparative information on new vehicles.

“We truly appreciate this vote of confidence from such a large body of Canada's automotive experts,” said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada's vice president, sales service and marketing.  “GM’s goal is to provide customers with cars and trucks that offer leading designs and fuel-efficient technologies, with eye-catching style and an overall level of perceived quality typical of more expensive vehicles.  This award tells us we're delivering on that goal.”

The Chevrolet Silverado extends GM’s decades-long legacy of sales leadership in full-size pickups, with a segment-best combination of fuel efficiency and capability that has seen sales continue to climb since its Canadian launch.

The Silverado’s leading platform supports a smoother ride and confident handling.  A lineup of powerful small-block V-8 engines complements the stronger chassis to deliver the light-duty segment's highest-rated towing capacity (4,763 kg / 10,500 pounds) and horsepower (367 hp / 274 kW), with a maximum payload capacity of 980 kg (2,160 pounds).

There are three cab styles - regular, extended and crew cab - and three cargo box lengths. The pickup is available in three trim levels: WT, LT and LTZ and is available in 2WD and 4WD. 

Chevrolet will up the ante again in 2008 with a Silverado hybrid pickup that will deliver up to 25% improved combined fuel economy.  On sale later this year, it will be the first hybrid produced in Canada and will be built at GM’s Oshawa Truck Assembly Centre.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

-30-
GM of Canada Contacts:
Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

 

 

The CAA Honours GM’s Environmental Initiatives for
the Third Consecutive Year

Montréal Auto Show, Thursday, January 17, 2008 — Today, the Canadian Automobile Association recognized GM Canada’s commitment to the environment for the third consecutive year with two 2008 Pyramid Awards for environmental initiatives.   

This year’s CAA green awards went to GM’s new two-mode hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon.  This next generation hybrid system is designed to optimize fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving and is expected to deliver up to a 25% overall improvement in fuel consumption.  In fact, the two-wheel drive models deliver comparable fuel economy in the city to a mid-size sedan.  A second award went to the all new Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, GM’s latest addition to our family of affordable hybrids, which also includes the Saturn Aura and Vue Green Lines, giving GM the broadest line-up of hybrids in the industry. 

“GM remains focused on energy diversity, offering consumers a range of affordable green options from fuel efficient small cars and small utilities to options like cylinder de-activation technology and E85 flex fuels, more hybrids than any other manufacturer, and in the future, electric and hydrogen powered vehicles,” said Marc Comeau, vice president sales, service and marketing for GM Canada.  “We would like to thank CAA for their leadership role in creating this environmental award program and for recognizing the importance of offering consumers more green choices to reduce the environmental impact of vehicles.”

“General Motors has won CAA’s Environmental Pyramid Award before due to its multi- pronged approach to finding environmental solutions designed to help Canadians make environmentally-friendly choices whether commuting around town or crossing the country,” said Tim Shearman, President of CAA. “The fact that our judging panel chose two very different and unique green GM technologies demonstrates just how important eco-mobility is to GM.”

Previous CAA Awards for Environmental initiatives include:

  • GM and Clean Air Foundation were awarded a joint CAA Environmental Pyramid
    of Recognition in 2007 for the Car Heaven program.  The goal of the Car Heaven Program is to accelerate the retirement of older, higher polluting vehicles and switching consumers to more fuel efficient vehicles which will reduce GHG emissions.  GM Canada partnered with the Clean Air Foundation to offer eligible Car Heaven donors $1,000 towards the purchase of a new GM vehicle.
  • General Motors of Canada Ltd. was awarded a 2006 CAA Pyramid Award for Environmental Initiatives for the launch of their new Ethanol Powered E-85 Chevrolet Impala.  According to Natural Resources Canada’s GHGenius model, E85 ethanol fuels can reduce net vehicle greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) by 47%-55% compared to gasoline.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 –

 

For further information, contact
Patty Faith
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

GM Canada December and 2007 Year End Sales

 (December 2007 and December 2006 both had 25 selling days)

Oshawa, Ontario (January 3, 2008) – For the 2007 calendar year, General Motors of Canada maintained its sales leadership position in Canada delivering 403,410 units. 

“For 2007, GM continued to stay the course with our strategy to focus on the quality and durability of our vehicles and strategically manage our daily rental sales volume,” said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing.  “While this strategy has resulted in some overall sales declines we are experiencing good retail sales performance, higher residual values and solid sales from our recently introduced cars and trucks.”

Comeau continued, “We are seeing strong customer acceptance for the new Cadillac CTS and Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu hybrid and Saturn Astra will lead the new generation of Saturn vehicles.  GM will also continue to offer more green choices for Canadians offering three additional hybrids in 2008, the Cadillac Escalade and the Oshawa-built Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups.”

Four GM vehicles were recently recognized by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) from best small car (Saturn Astra) to best small crossover (Saturn Vue)  to best luxury crossover (Buick Enclave) to best pickup truck (Chevrolet Silverado).  This comes on the heels Motor Trend Magazine Car of the Year for the Cadillac CTS and Green Car of Year for the Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid SUV from Green Car Journal. 

Sales Highlights

  • The recently launched Chevrolet Malibu saw retail sales jump 8.9% in December.
  • The all-new Cadillac CTS and Saab 9-3 were up 4.5% and 56.8%, respectively, for the month.
  • GM’s crossover line-up – including the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave - drove a 67.7% increase in the mid utility segment for the month.
  • Pontiac Vibe continues to perform well – up 29.5% for the month and 12.9% for the year, driven by strong retail sales.
  • Saturn posted a 23% increase in 2007 as a result of a strong vehicle line-up including the Aura and Aura Hybrid sedans, the Vue and Vue Hybrid small utility and all new Outlook crossover utility.
  • GMs large pickup sales grew 7.5% in 2007, with gains from the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra extended cab pickups (up 10.2% and 9.2%, respectively), as well as strong performance from the 1500 Series Crew Cabs with Chevrolet up 50.5% and GMC up 38.9%.

 


GENERAL MOTORS OF CANADA SALES

MONTH OF DECEMBER 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

9,678

16,741

-42.4%

TOTAL TRUCKS

16,412

19,517

-15.9%

COMBINED VEHICLES

26,090

36,258

-28.0%

CALENDAR YEAR-TO-DATE: December 31st , 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

185,952

202,949

-8.4%

TOTAL TRUCKS

217,760

218,350

-0.3%

COMBINED VEHICLES

403,712

421,299

-4.2%

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

 

-30-

For further information, contact:
Patty Faith
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

General Motors of Canada November Sales

 (November 2007 and November 2006 both had 26 selling days)

Oshawa, Ontario (December 3, 2007) – For November 2007, General Motors of Canada dealers delivered a total of 28,071 vehicles, down 10.2% from the same month last year.

“November was a soft month overall for industry retail sales,” said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing.  “At GM we continue to see strength from our recently launched products like the Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave crossover utilities and the Cadillac CTS.  The new Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Hybrid are creating a lot of buzz with impressive product reviews and strong customer acceptance.”

Comeau added, “We have seen some early success from our year-end Wish & Win promotion, showing customers that the best value on the industry’s best vehicles can be found at their local GM Canada dealership.”

Sales Highlights

  • Mid Utilities were up a combined 67.4% driven by the continued strength of the all-new family of crossovers including the Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave.
  • GMs smaller, fuel efficient cars continue to perform well with the Chevrolet Aveo and Pontiac Wave up a combined 16.8% and the Pontiac Vibe posting gains of 31.3%
  • Chevrolet Silverado and Sierra Extended Cab pick ups were up a combined 4.9%.
  • Cadillac sales were up 2.9% overall, led by a 38.1% increase for the award winning Cadillac CTS.
  •  

 

GENERAL MOTORS OF CANADA SALES

MONTH OF OCTOBER 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

13,028

14,254

-8.6%

TOTAL TRUCKS

15,043

17,015

-11.6%

COMBINED VEHICLES

28,071

31,268

-10.2%

CALENDAR YEAR-TO-DATE: October 31, 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

176,274

186,208

-5.3%

TOTAL TRUCKS

201,105

198,833

+1.1%

COMBINED VEHICLES

377,379

385,041

-2.0%

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

 

-30-

For further information, contact:
Patty Faith
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

 

 

Good Coaching Nurtures Optimal Growth and Development of Children and Youth

Oshawa (Ontario), November 28, 2007 –According to research highlights by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC), good coaching nurtures optimal growth and development of children and fosters the joy of sports.  To develop our coaches in Canada, General Motors of Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) provided 60 $2,000 grants for coach skill development. 

List Attached

“Olympic dreams begin at the community club level and that is what GM’s Making Dreams Possible Program is all about” said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing.  “With support from the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC), these grants were designed to invest in coaches in communities across Canada.  We believe that ongoing coach development at the grass roots level is the cornerstone to building our elite athletes of the future.”

“The CAC is pleased to be partners with GM through the Making Dreams Possible Program. In its first year, the program’s direct support of coach development touched over 5,000 coaches and nearly 70,000 athletes in 115 community clubs across the country.  This program immediately impacts coach development and education and will ultimately benefit Canadian sport as more coaches are introduced to the National Coach Certification Program (NCCP),” commented Jean-Marie De Koninck, Chair, CAC Board of Directors.

“This grant will allow us to provide opportunities to expand the knowledge and experience base of our coaches so that they are better equipped to lead our young athletes as they pursue their dreams,” said Jean E. Pendziwol, Fundraising and Communications Coordinator for the Big Thunder Nordic Ski Club in Thunder Bay, Ontario.  “The funding will help us to guide our youth towards athletic excellence and provide an environment where athletes grow as healthy, involved members of the community.”

Making Dreams Possible is a program developed by GM in cooperation with the Coaching Association of Canada, the governing body of Canada’s coaching education program and is designed to support coaches of Olympic and Paralympic Sports at the high performance and community levels. 
Over the next three years, GM’s Making Dreams Possible program will provide a minimum of 100 grants of $2,000 each annually for coach development in local communities, and ten grants of $10,000 each annually to high performance athletes and their coaches.  These grants will be used to fund special projects that develop the skills and abilities of elite and community level coaches. 

Applications can be submitted by high performance athletes and their coaches for the elite grants and head coaches, technical directors or the president of local sports clubs can apply for the local sport club coaching awards.  Application forms can be found through www.thedriveison.ca.

The next wave of local sport club and high performance applications closes on February 14th, 2008 with grants to be awarded in May.

About GM Canada
General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 759 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

About the Coaching Association of Canada
The Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) is a not-for-profit amateur sport organization with the mandate to improve the effectiveness of coaching across all sports and at all levels of the sport system.  With a mission of enhancing the experiences of all Canadian athletes through quality coaching, the CAC and its partners deliver a leading edge coaching system that has a goal of reaching 100,000 NCCP-trained coaches who will impact 1,000,000 athletes each year by 2010.  Visit www.coach.ca for more information about coach education and training.

- 30 -

Contacts:
Patty Faith
GM Canada
(905) 644-2728

Sandra Gage
Director, Marketing and Communications
Coaching Association of Canada
(613) 235-5000 ext. 9-2378


Sport Club

Club Address

Club Contact

Blackjack Cross Country Ski Club

P.O. Box 1754
Rossland, BC
V0G 1Y0

Kathy Moore
250-362-3319
km@2cats.net

Phoenix Gymnastics Club

4588 Clancy Loranger Way
Vancouver, BC
V5Y 4B6

Lisa Brougham
604-737-7693
lisab@phoenixgymnastics.com

Windermere Valley Ski Club

Box 2137
Invermere, BC
V0A 1K0

Ben Sillem
877-266-0691
bsillem@brokerbuilder.ca

Grouse Mountain Tyee Ski Club

6400 Nancy Greene Dr
North Vancouver, BC
V7R 4N4

Sead Causevic
604-728-7323
sead79@hotmail.com

Kamloops Long Blades Speed Skating Club

630 Braemar Dr.
Kamloops, BC
V1S 1H9

Trish Archibald
250-828-0640
coynearch@shaw.ca

Whistler Nordics Ski Club

8605 Drifter Way
Whistler, BC
V0N 1B8

Karen Blaylock
604.932.5603
karen@whistlernordics.com

Oceanside Track & Field Club

663 Redwood Drive
Qualicum Beach, BC
V9K 1A2

Ray Riva
250-951-9163
raylesriva@hotmail.com

Whitehorse Curling Club

Whitehorse, YT
Y1A 6J6

Trevor Sellars
867-668-5248
info@whitehorsecurlingclub.com

Yukon Freestyle Ski Association

c/o Sport Yukon 4061-4th Ave
Whitehorse, YT
Y1A 1H1

Jon Standing
867-668-4236
laura.wilson@wgh.yk.ca

Canmore Illusions Gymnastics Club

P.O. Box 8458
Canmore, AB
T1W 2V2

Barb Clemes
403-678-4466
barb@mountainsoft.net

Edmonton Wrestling Club

Box 52179
Edmonton, AB
T6G 2J5

Doug Wass
780-498-5716
dnjwass@shaw.ca

Rimbey Minor Soccer Association

P.O. Box 1519
Rimbey, AB
T0C 2J0

Dawn Nawrot
403-843-2773
rdnawrot@telusplanet.net

Snow Valley Racing Association

P.O. Box 41012
Edmonton, AB
T6J 6M7

JP Fortin
780-434-3563
jp@snowvalleyracing.ca

Lethbridge Volleyball Club

98 Mt. Crandell Crescent
Lethbridge, AB
T1K 6L5

Vicki Hawkins
403-320-8868
dohawk@telus.net

LA Swim Club

4401 University Drive West
Lethbridge, AB
T1K 3M4

Brad Mori
403-329-2677
brad.mori@uleth.ca

Westwind Gymnastics Club

1101 3rd Avenue North
Lethbridge, AB
T1H 0H7

Jamie Fraser
403-320-1373
gymn3@telus.net

Iqaluit Speed Skating Club-Arctic Terns

P.O. Box 761
Iqualuit, NU
X0A 0H0

John Maurice
867-979-1226
jtmaurice@northwestel.net

Lampman Youth Curling Club

P.O. Box 77
Lampman, SK
S0C 1N0

Monica Dukart
306-487-2264
lampmanrecreation@sasktel.net

Weyburn Gymnastics Club

PO Box 1301
Weyburn, SK
S4H 3J9

Krissy Cleasby
306-842-4961
weyburngymnasticsclub@hotmail.com

Saskatoon Racing Canoe Club

426 Budz Cr.
Saskatoon, SK
S7N 4N4

Andre Gronowicz
306-955-7682
agronowicz@sasktel.net

Prince Albert Sharks Swim Club

PO Box 2203
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7M7

Barb Broda
306-764-1336
thebrodahouse@sasktel.net

Manta Swim Club

25 Posiedon Bay
Winnipeg, MB
R3M 3E4

Tom Hainey
204-452-4655
manta@mantaswimclub.mb.ca

Winnipeg Optimist Athletics

426 Chalfont Rd.
Winnipeg, MB
R3R 0R3

Wayne McMahon
204-885-5714
larry.switzer@shaw.ca

Kenora Nordic Trails Association

136 3rd Street North
Kenora, ON
P9N 2L4

Ursula Wehner
807-468-6818
uwehner@kmts.ca

Kingston Gymnastics Club

1343 Midland Ave. Unit 320
Kingston, ON
K7P 2W5

Marguerite Gagnon
613-384-1190
marguerite13@sympatico.ca

Brockville Gymnastics Academy

10 Gilmour Street
Brockville, ON
K6V 5J7

Emily Dancy
613-345-3836
bga@ripnet.com

Gloucester Skating Club

1490 Youville Dr
Ottawa, ON
K1C 2X8

Darlene Joseph
613-830-1610
info@gloucesterskatingclub.ca

The Sudbury Canoe Club

506 Elizabeth St
Sudbury, ON
P3E 2X7

Grayden McClure
705-673-6032
sudburycanoeclub@on.aibn.com

Brockville Basketball Association

PO Box 172
Brockville, ON

Martin Gysbers
(613) 342-2555
martin.gysbers@freedom55financial.com

Twisters Gymnastics and Trampline Club

275 Alder St
Orangeville, ON
L9W 1K1

Ken Rae
519-942-2477
wiaters@bellnet.ca

Ajax Soccer Club

77 Centennial Rd
Ajax, ON
L1S 4S4

Sherri Gauvreau
905-683-0740
president@akaxsoccerclub.ca

Burlington Synchronized Swimming Club

4159 Spruce Ave
Burlington, ON
L7L 1K8

Jennifer Scott
905-637-7328
burlsynchro@cogeco.ca

 

 

GM Canada Announces New Price Incentives

 

Oshawa, Ontario (November 8, 2007) – General Motors of Canada today announced that, building on strong October sales growth and its hot new vehicle lineup, the company is introducing a series of new price incentives to augment its already highly competitive lease and finance rates.

Effective today, GM Canada will:

  • Cover a 1% GST reduction for all of our cash and finance customers until the new GST rate takes effect on January 1, 2008.
  • Offer new cash incentives ranging from $1,500 up to $10,000 on select models, including the Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Corvette, GMC Yukon and all of our 2008 Saab models.
  • GM Canada is also today launching its year end “Wish and Win” event which gives GM customers the chance to win a new car or up to an additional $10,000 toward the purchase of their new GM car or truck.

“Coming off our strong October sales increases, we are moving beyond our great lease and finance rates to offer GM customers even greater value,” said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing.  “We know consumers have been focused on the high Canadian dollar so we are going to continue to show them that the best value on the industry’s best vehicles can be found at their local GM Canada dealership.” 

For more information, visit our website at www.gamcanada.com

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

 

-30-

For further information, contact:
Patty Faith
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

Pricing Announced for the All-New 2008 Saturn Astra

  • All-new small car featuring Saturn’s new, European design
  • Long list of standard features with a starting price under $18,000

 

Oshawa, Ontario (November 12, 2007) –  Providing a European built car to the Canadian small car market, the all-new 2008 Saturn Astra has taut ride-and-handling with a wide range of standard equipment, safety features, and very good fuel economy all for under $18,000.

Arriving at Saturn retailers later this month and equipped with a DOHC 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine (138 horsepower) and a five-speed manual transmission, the 2008 Saturn Astra 5-Door XE will be offered at the MSRP of $17,900.  The uplevel Astra 5-Door XR will start at $20,490 and the sporty Astra 3-Door XR will be priced from $21,225.

"With the introduction of the 2008 Saturn Astra, we now offer Canadians an excellent combination of European style, performance, safety technology and fuel efficiency at an affordable price," said Mike Speranzini, Director of Saturn Canada. "Combine this with Saturn’s celebrated retail customer experience and the Astra is an exciting addition to Saturn’s already impressive line-up."

Standard features on all 2008 Saturn Astra’s include:

  • 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and traction control
  • Six standard air bags, including dual-stage frontal air bags; roof rail head curtain air bags and seat-mounted thorax/pelvic air bags (for front-seat passengers)
  • Active head restraints
  • Pedal Release System (Detaches pedals in a crash, to reduce risk of leg or ankle injuries)
  • OnStar with one year of Safe & Sound service
  • Tire pressure monitoring
  • Rain sensing wiper system
  • Remote keyless entry, including all four window remote express-down
  • Power door locks
  • Cruise control
  • Express-down power windows
  • Driver Information Centre
  • Steering wheel controls
  • Oil pan heater

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:
Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

 

 

New Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid is Canadian
Price and Fuel Consumption Leader

  • Most affordable hybrid SUV in Canada
  • Best highway fuel consumption of any SUV
  • Better combined fuel consumption than many mid-size sedans
  • Best range in segment: Up to 1200 kilometres  

 

Oshawa, Ontario (October 18, 2007) – GM Canada today announced pricing and fuel consumption ratings for the all-new 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid.  On sale in November, the new Vue Green Line hybrid has a starting MSRP of just $30,790, making it the most affordable hybrid SUV on the market and more affordable than many competitor hybrid sedans.

The Vue Green Line hybrid has a segment-leading highway consumption rating of just 6.1 L/100kms. Together with a city rating of 8.2 L/100kms, it achieves an impressive combined rating of 7.3L/100 kms, it has better fuel economy than the CRV, RAV-4 and the Camry and Accord sedans.

“With the Vue Green Line hybrid, Canadians who need SUV practicality but also want to do their part for the environment can finally afford to do so without sacrificing style, versatility, driving dynamics or safety,” said Saturn of Canada’s director, Mike Speranzini. “When you add in its eligibility for various government incentives, Vue Green Line customers can easily go green without going broke.”

With its impressive highway fuel economy, the Vue green Line has a segment-leading range of almost 1200 kilometres on just a single tank of gasoline - enough to easily travel roundtrip from Toronto to Ottawa, from Moncton to Cape Breton or from Calgary to Jasper.

Later in 2008, Saturn will introduce a 2-mode hybrid Vue, which will increase fuel economy by an estimated 45 percent over the comparable non-hybrid model. Saturn has also committed to producing a plug-in hybrid Vue that will get approximately twice the fuel economy of any SUV currently on the market.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:
Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

 

 

GM Canada Takes Wraps Off Newest “SS” at the
2007 Sport Compact Performance Show

Canadian debut of turbocharged 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS

MONTREAL (October 12, 2007) – At the 2007 Sport Compact Performance show - the nation’s premiere celebration of automotive tuner and performance enthusiasts - GM Canada today unveiled the newest member of Chevrolet’s SS family: the 2008 HHR SS.

Arriving in Canadian Chevrolet dealerships in the first quarter of 2008, the SS model combines uncompromising performance, with the style and capability of the popular HHR family.  It features a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L Ecotec engine that produces 260 horsepower (194 kW), plus unique exterior styling and an SS-specific interior.

Additional standard features include all-new front and rear fascias, new front grilles, a rear spoiler and 18-inch polished forged aluminum wheels wrapped with Michelin performance all-season tires. Inside, SS-embroidered sport seats – with suede like inserts – a new gauge cluster with 225-km/h speedometer, an A-pillar boost gauge and a new, driver-oriented steering wheel and shifter support its serious driving capabilities.

An SS from the get go

The ’08 HHR SS was engineered by GM Performance Division (GMPD) with a team of engineers and designers dedicated to crafting only high-performance vehicles.  The HHR SS was engineered to offer more than simply increased power. An all-new FE5 Sport suspension was developed and tuned at Germany’s famed Nürburgring racing circuit. It includes specific stabilizer bars, spring rates and damper tuning – all designed to complement the turbocharged powertrain.

Consequently, the HHR SS delivers a sports car-like maximum lateral grip of 0.86 g (with manual transmission). Braking is also enhanced with four-wheel discs with standard ABS. StabiliTrak electronically controlled stability control system is standard.

 

The HHR SS’s performance rubber meets the road via Michelin Pilot Sport MXM4 P225/45R18 tires mounted on 18-inch polished forged aluminum five-spoke wheels.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.
.
- 30 -

GM Canada Contact:

Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

RETIREE DISCOUNTS

Be sure to check out gmcanadaretirees.com under Pensions/Benefits and Services for discounts to various Ontario attractions including:

      • Ontario Place
      • Canada’s Wonderland
      • Ontario Science Centre
      • Wild Water Kingdom
      • Walt Disney World
      • Parkwood -NEW!
      • Led Zepplica - NEW!

 

PRODUCT UPDATES

Pricing Announced for the All-New Next Generation 2008 Cadillac CTS

· Dramatic design inspired by Cadillac Sixteen Concept
· New 3.6L direct-injection V-6 - more power, less fuel consumption and lower emissions
· Hand-crafted interior combined with leading technologies and electronics

GM Canada announced today that the all-new 2008 Cadillac CTS, arriving at dealers next month, has an MSRP of $38,900 with the standard 3.6L V6 engine and $41,400 with the premium 3.6L direct-injection engine.

The 2008 CTS features GM’s new 3.6L direct-injection V-6 VVT engine, delivering 304 horsepower and 273 lb. -ft of torque. Operating with regular unleaded gasoline, this sophisticated engine produces power similar to many V-8s, but with significantly less fuel consumption. The direct-injection technology contributes to a 15-percent increase in horsepower; 8-percent increase in torque, and 3-percent improvement in brake-specific fuel consumption.

The 2008 CTS continues to be offered with the highly regarded 3.6L V-6 which produces 263 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft of torque as standard equipment. As well, the 2008 CTS is available, for the first time, in rear-and all-wheel-drive configurations and the transmission lineup now consists only of six-speed transmissions – an Aisin six-speed manual or – new for CTS – a 6L50 six-speed automatic.

The braking and steering systems for the CTS are all-new, with extensive revisions made to the suspension to accommodate the larger rear track. With innovations adapted from the high-performance Cadillac V-series, the 2008 CTS provides notably increased responsiveness, premium “feel” and performance in spirited driving conditions. In addition, the 2008 CTS features Cadillac’s StabiliTrak electronic chassis control system, integrated with the standard four-channel ABS with full-function traction control, hydraulic brake assist and engine drag control systems.

With the 3.6 L V-6 powerplant, the 2008 CTS features substantially more standard equipment. An all-new cabin design features handcrafted accents and includes standard leather seating with heated and ventilated driver and front passenger seats, an Ultraview sunroof which covers 70% of the roof and an upgraded instrument panel cluster with multi-line Driver Information Centre. Also standard are 17-inch wheels, polished aluminum exhaust tips, Stabilitrak stability enhancement system, BOSE 8-speaker sound system and tire pressure monitoring.

Please click here to view the complete media release.

 

2008 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra 1500 Series Trucks Only Full-Size Pickups With Top Five-Star Side-Impact Safety Rating

The 2008 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 Series pickup trucks have received the federal government's highest side-impact crash rating - five stars - making Silverado and Sierra the industry's only full-size pickups to earn this top rating.

Silverado and Sierra 1500 Series Regular Cab, Extended Cab and Crew Cab models all received the highest possible side-impact rating for models tested with and without available head curtain side-impact air bags. The Silverado and Sierra previously received the federal government's highest frontal crash test rating of five stars. Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov).

"Customers continue to rank safety higher on their lists for new vehicle purchases and that helped us make safety before, during, and after a crash among our chief priorities when we redesigned the all-new Silverado and Sierra pickups for the 2007 model year," said Gary A. White, GM vice president and vehicle line executive for full-size trucks.

"The industry-leading safety attributes of these pickups add to their well-deserved and longstanding reputation for dependability and durability, the hallmarks of a great pickup truck."

To read the complete media release, please click here.

To unsubscribe, click here.
https://dealers.gmcanada.com/weblogic/gwn/gmcl/gmcl_retirees?reqtype=unsubscribe_disp&lang=en

 

 

Pricing Announced for the All-New 2008 Chevrolet Malibu

  • Refined, contemporary design shows the new look of Chevrolet
  • Impressive array of standard features at a surprisingly low price
  • Fuel-efficient range of powertrains including a Hybrid model
  • Six-speed automatic transmission available on four-cylinder engine – a segment exclusive
  • Controlled, refined and confident driving experience 

Oshawa, Ontario (September 26, 2007) – GM Canada announced today that the all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LS, arriving at dealers in November, has a starting MSRP of just $22, 995.  Other models range from the 1LT package starting at $24,895 to the top of the line LTZ model starting at $33,610.  In addition, starting at just $26,995, a hybrid Malibu model will be offered featuring the most affordable hybrid system on the market. 

“Malibu is built to be the best midsize car in the market and is loaded with standard features that many competitors don’t offer at any price,” said Marc Comeau, vice president of Sales, Service and Marketing for GM of Canada.  “The design team focused on the attributes that mattered most to midsize car buyers.  Malibu has great performance, fuel economy and refinement, packaged in a clean contemporary design that carries the new face of Chevrolet.”

New Malibu models are offered in four well-equipped trim levels – all with standard ABS, full traction control, head-curtain side air bags and front seat-thorax air bags, OnStar Gen 7 with remote diagnostics.  StabiliTrak stability control is standard on LT and LTZ models.

Malibu performance comes from two powerful yet fuel-efficient dual overhead cam four- and six-cylinder engines, including a standard 169-horsepower (126 kW) 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder engine that delivers 9.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 L/100 km on the highway and an available 252-horsepower (188 kW) 3.6L DOHC V6 with variable valve timing that delivers 12.2L/100 km in the city and 7.8 L/100 on the highway.  The Malibu Hybrid model is powered by a 2.4L Ecotec engine and achieves 8.5 L/100km in the city and 6.2 L/100 on the highway.

An efficient six-speed automatic transmission is standard with the 3.6L V6 and will be available on four-cylinder LTZ models beginning next spring – the first four-cylinder engine/six speed transmission combination in the segment.  Other four cylinder models will feature a four-speed transmission with overdrive. 

The new Malibu’s longer wheelbase and four-wheel independent suspension combine to provide precise and responsive ride and handling characteristics.  Malibu’s strong body and chassis structure serves as the foundation for an exceptionally safe vehicle and one of the segment’s quietest, more refined driving experiences. 

A number of equipment packages also are available and include features such as power-adjustable pedals, premium seating, up level interiors; power equipment groups and a deluxe audio system with available XM Satellite Radio. As well, Malibu is offered with two-tone trim combinations, including Ebony and Brick, Cocoa and Cashmere and Titanium and Cashmere.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:

Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

 

 

 

For Immediate Release 

Lindsay and St. Catharines students first to see Friday Night,
a new, ‘striking and sobering’ show on impaired driving
MADD Canada and GM Canada to take show on cross country tour of high schools

Toronto, Ont. (September 6, 2007) - “Friday Night”, MADD Canada’s new multi-media assembly show which delivers its important drug and alcohol awareness message to 600,000 high school students annually, premiered simultaneously at two Ontario high schools as MADD Canada and presenting Sponsor General Motors of Canada kicked off a ten month, cross-country tour.

Margaret Miller, MADD Canada’s National President said, “It is an understatement to say that we need to do something about Canadian youth that are involved in impaired driving crashes. Road crashes are the number one cause of youth fatalities in Canada -- one in eight people who die on Canada’s roads are under the age of 25. It is a disturbing fact that two out of five teens who are killed on the road have been drinking.”

 “Friday Night is a striking and sobering reflection that will prompt students to think twice about their own actions as well as looking out for the safety of their friends.  Our hope with these productions is that we’ll make an indelible impression on young Canadians – and they will not become an impaired driving statistic.” 

Stew Low, Director of Public Relations – General Motors of Canada said, “This year’s production, Friday Night, like past productions, will help with the education of the next generation of drivers about safe and sober driving habits and making the right choices.  At GM, we believe in the critical work MADD Canada is doing to educate youth and save lives.”

Mrs. Miller said, “The continued support of GM gives us the chance to show this production to more young Canadians than ever before. They do a remarkable service and we are privileged to be part of their effort.  Together we have our sights set on touring these multi-media presentations to even more students this school year.”

In a flood of fast-paced, arresting imagery, MADD Canada’s 2006-2007 multi-media assembly programs feature poignant stories of young people, celebrity interviews, clips from a major motion picture, and a contemporary soundtrack – viewed on three giant screens (final set-up size 15' x 45').
/2

To preview these new presentations go to www.maddyouth.ca.

MADD Canada is the country’s preeminent voice for impaired driving victims.  The organization is a grassroots, volunteer driven group that is active in over 100 communities across Canada. Over 750,000 Canadians support through their annual donations MADD Canada’s mission to stop impaired driving and to support the victims of this violent crime.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.  GM plays an active role in communities across the country with programs like GM Community Wheels, which offers a turnkey solution to the transportation needs of community agencies by providing them with GM vehicles; Saturn Kidspace is another program that assists communities in need of safe places for children to play.  To date, more than 300 playgrounds have been built as part of this initiative.

-30-

Contact:
Wanda Kristensen, MADD Canada’s Director of Programs       
1-800-665-6233, ext. 229
(905) 330-4632 (cell)

Diane Lehman, Public Relations, General Motors of Canada Ltd.
(905) 644-3883

 

 

 

 

General Motors of Canada August Sales

 (August 2007 and August 2006 both had 26 selling days)

Oshawa, Ontario (September 4, 2007) – For August 2007, General Motors of Canada dealers delivered a total of 38,707 vehicles, an increase of 3.2% over the same month last year.

Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing said, “Our August sales increase was the result of strong performance across our entire portfolio.   Our new crossover utilities performed exceptionally well as did GM’s leading selection of small, fuel efficient vehicles.”

Comeau added “We are looking forward to an exciting fall with the launch of the European styled Chevrolet Malibu, the all new Cadillac CTS and additions to GM’s hybrid portfolio, including the new Malibu hybrid and two-mode hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon.”

Sales Highlights for August

  • GM’s all-new family of crossover vehicles continue to perform well with the GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave and Saturn Outlook driving a 69.8% increase in mid-utility sales.
  • GM’s broad selection of small, fuel efficient cars were up a combined 10%
  • GM’s Pontiac Division posted strong gains, up 19.5%, driven by double digit increases for the G5, G6, Grand Prix and Solstice.
  • Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 series crew cabs posted a combined increase of 54.2%, driven by strong demand in Western Canada.
  • GM saw growth in van sales with the affordable Chevrolet Uplander and Pontiac Montana SV6 up 25.2% and 45.9%, respectively.

 

GENERAL MOTORS OF CANADA SALES

 

MONTH OF AUGUST 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

19,309

18,938

+2.0%

TOTAL TRUCKS

19,398

18,568

+4.5%

COMBINED VEHICLES

38,707

37,506

+3.2%

CALENDAR YEAR-TO-DATE: August 31, 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

134,136

143,419

-6.5%

TOTAL TRUCKS

151,701

147,872

+2.6%

COMBINED VEHICLES

285,837

291,291

-1.9%

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

 

-30-

For further information, contact:
Patty Faith
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

 

Friday August 17th, 2007 Auto Info .pdf

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pricing Announced for the All-New
Next Generation 2008 Cadillac CTS

  • Dramatic design inspired by Cadillac Sixteen Concept
  • New 3.6L direct-injection V-6 - more power, less fuel consumption and lower emissions
  • Hand-crafted interior combined with leading technologies and electronics

 

Oshawa, Ontario (August 8, 2007) – GM Canada announced today that the all-new 2008 Cadillac CTS, arriving at dealers next month, has an MSRP of $38,900 with the standard 3.6L V6 engine and $41,400 with the premium 3.6L direct-injection engine. 

“Cadillac takes its renaissance to the next level with the all-new 2008 CTS,” said Norm Sawula, Cadillac Marketing Manager.  “The CTS uniquely combines dramatic styling, a hand crafted interior, spirited performance and excellent ride and handling, to challenge the world’s best.  With many new standard features and very competitive pricing, the 2008 CTS is even more desirable to luxury sport sedan buyers.”

The 2008 CTS features GM’s new 3.6L direct-injection V-6 VVT engine, delivering 304 horsepower and 273 lb. -ft of torque.  Operating with regular unleaded gasoline, this sophisticated engine produces power similar to many V-8s, but with significantly less fuel consumption.  The direct-injection technology contributes to a 15-percent increase in horsepower; 8-percent increase in torque, and 3-percent improvement in brake-specific fuel consumption.  

The 2008 CTS continues to be offered with the highly regarded 3.6L V-6 which produces 263 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft of torque as standard equipment.  As well, the 2008 CTS is available, for the first time, in rear-and all-wheel-drive configurations and the transmission lineup now consists only of six-speed transmissions – an Aisin six-speed manual or – new for CTS – a 6L50 six-speed automatic.

The braking and steering systems for the CTS are all-new, with extensive revisions made to the suspension to accommodate the larger rear track.  With innovations adapted from the high-performance Cadillac V-series, the 2008 CTS provides notably increased responsiveness, premium “feel” and performance in spirited driving conditions.  In addition, the 2008 CTS features Cadillac’s StabiliTrak electronic chassis control system, integrated with the standard four-channel ABS with full-function traction control, hydraulic brake assist and engine drag control systems.

With the 3.6 L V-6 powerplant, the 2008 CTS features substantially more standard equipment.  An all-new cabin design features handcrafted accents and includes standard leather seating with heated and ventilated driver and front passenger seats, an Ultraview sunroof which covers 70% of the roof and an upgraded instrument panel cluster with multi-line Driver Information Centre.  Also standard are 17-inch wheels, polished aluminum exhaust tips, Stabilitrak stability enhancement system, BOSE 8-speaker sound system and tire pressure monitoring. 

With advanced technologies and electronics such as Adaptive Forward Lighting system, Keyless Access system with Smart Remote Start, BOSE 8-speak audio system and a touch screen navigation that retracts into the instrument panel, the all-new CTS is at the forefront of the industry.   In addition to these technologies, CTS is designed to enhance Cadillac’s reputation for providing a safe occupant environment with a segment-first dual depth front passenger air bag, dual-stage driver’s front air bag, driver and front passenger side seat-mounted airbags and roof-rail side curtain airbags.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -

Contact:

Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com

 

Chevrolet Volt Concept Electrifies Toronto

Oshawa, ON, (Tuesday, June 19, 2007) – The revolutionary Chevrolet Volt Concept made its Canadian debut today at the Energy and Environment Conference (EECO) in Toronto.  The technologically-advanced and stylish Volt has the potential to virtually eliminate the need for daily commuters to visit a gas station.
“If you are like most Canadians who live and work within a 64 kilometre round trip the Volt is a gas free, emission free car,” says David Paterson, vice president, corporate and environmental affairs, General Motors of Canada. “Drivers will simply unplug and go each morning - much as we do with our cell phones today.”
The Chevrolet Volt Concept electric vehicle can be fully charged by plugging it into a 110-volt outlet for approximately six hours a day. When the lithium-ion battery is fully charged, the Volt can deliver 64 kilometres of pure electric vehicle range.  If drivers need to travel more than 64 kilometres, a range extending power source (which creates electricity from gasoline, ethanol, hydrogen or biodiesel fuels) seamlessly kicks in to recharge the lithium ion battery pack when required, for an impressive driving range of more than 1,000 kilometres.
“At GM we believe that tomorrow’s automobile must be flexible to accommodate many different energy sources and choices for consumers, and a key part of that flexibility will be enabled by electrically driven cars” adds Paterson.  “With battery contracts in place and a dedicated team of engineers, General Motors is moving to bring the Volt closer to reality.”
The signing of advanced development battery contracts and our announcement to move fuel cell engineers from research and development work to our powertrain and engineering organizations for the E-Flex system are the latest proof points in GM's commitment to providing more green choices for consumers.  Today GM offers:

  • Canada’s most affordable hybrid SUV and mid-sedan - the Saturn Vue and Aura Green Line hybrids, and the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, to be introduced later this year.  GM has also announced two-mode hybrid versions of the new Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon arriving this fall and a two-mode hybrid version of the Oshawa-made Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups next year. GM’s new two-mode hybrid pickups will be the first hybrid vehicles ever built in Canada.   
  • GM is a world leader in the development of flex fuel vehicles that are capable of running on fuel containing up to 85 per cent ethanol (E85) or regular gasoline.  Today 15 GM models are available with E85 Flex Fuel capability.
  • GM is currently building the world’s largest fuel cell demonstration fleet at GM’s Canadian Engineering Centre in Oshawa, these 100 Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles will be placed with customers this fall.
  • Active Fuel Management (or AFM) engines are available on 15 of our most popular cars and trucks. AFM seamlessly shuts down half the engine’s cylinders to conserve fuel when they are not needed – such as when you are cruising on the highway.
  • GM provides more vehicles that achieve 7L / 100 km highway than any other manufacturer in the Canada.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

-30-
Contacts:
Patty Faith
GM Canada
(905) 644-2728
cell (905) 744-2727

Adria MacKenzie
GM Canada
(905) 644-1824
cell (905) 442-6555

 

GM Canada Communications

GM Canada Oshawa Car Plant is the Only Canadian Plant to be Recognized in the Top 3 of the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study

Oshawa, Ontario (Wednesday, June 6, 2007) – The J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study, released today,  recognized GM Canada's Oshawa Car Plant (line #2) with the Silver plant quality award for North and South America and was the only Canadian plant to make the top 3.  This follows last week’s recognition by Harbour & Associates that the Oshawa car plant is the most productive plant in North America. 

Oshawa Car has earned the J.D. Power and Associates Gold Plant Award in four of the past six years and is home to the Pontiac Grand Prix, recognized as this year’s large car segment leader for the second consecutive year.

Arturo Elias, president of GM of Canada said, “Being recognized as one of the top plants in North and South America in each of the past six years shows the dedication of our employees and a strong drive toward continuous improvement.  Our employees work hard every day to build the best quality cars for our customers.”

Buzz Hargrove, president of the CAW said, "Oshawa workers should be proud of their track record for leading the industry in quality.  This award is a testament to CAW men and women who are dedicated to building quality products."

The Oshawa Car Plant builds Pontiac Grand Prix and Buick Allure on line #2 and the Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo on line #1.  Late last summer GM announced that the Oshawa Car Plant would be home to the eagerly anticipated Chevrolet Camaro.   This new product program and conversion of the Oshawa plant to a state of the art flexible manufacturing facility represents a C$740 million investment.

Oshawa Car Plant’s Quality Track Record:

2006     
Line # 2 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
Pontiac Grand Prix was recognized as the best vehicle in the Large Car Segment

2005     
Line # 2 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
Line #1 received the J.D. Power SILVER AWARD
Oshawa swept the Premium Midsize segment, with the Century recognized, once again, as “Best in Segment”
LaCrosse/Allure was recognized as the “Best Launch Vehicle”

2004            
Buick Century recognized as the best car in the Premium Midsize Segment

2003     
Line #1 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD Award for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America

2002     
Line # 2 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
Buick Century recognized as the Best Car in the Premium Mid- Size segment.

 

Nine GM Vehicles finished in Top Three of their Respective Segments:

Placement

Vehicle

Segment

1st

Pontiac Grand Prix

Large Car

1st

Chevy Silverado Classic HD

Large Pickup

1st

Chevrolet Express

Van

2nd

Chevrolet Suburban

Large MAV

3rd

Chevrolet Monte Carlo

Sporty Car

3rd

Cadillac CTS

Entry Premium Car

3rd

Hummer H2

Large Premium MAV

3rd

GMC Yukon

Large MAV

3rd

GMC Sierra LD

Large Pickup

 

For more information, please click the link below.
http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pdf/2007088a.pdf

 

GM Canada Oshawa Car Plant is the Only Canadian Plant to be Recognized in the Top 3 of the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study

Oshawa, Ontario (Wednesday, June 6, 2007) – The J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study, released today,  recognized GM Canada's Oshawa Car Plant (line #2) with the Silver plant quality award for North and South America and was the only Canadian plant to make the top 3.  This follows last week’s recognition by Harbour & Associates that the Oshawa car plant is the most productive plant in North America. 

Oshawa Car has earned the J.D. Power and Associates Gold Plant Award in four of the past six years and is home to the Pontiac Grand Prix, recognized as this year’s large car segment leader for the second consecutive year.

Arturo Elias, president of GM of Canada said, “Being recognized as one of the top plants in North and South America in each of the past six years shows the dedication of our employees and a strong drive toward continuous improvement.  Our employees work hard every day to build the best quality cars for our customers.”

Buzz Hargrove, president of the CAW said, "Oshawa workers should be proud of their track record for leading the industry in quality.  This award is a testament to CAW men and women who are dedicated to building quality products."

The Oshawa Car Plant builds Pontiac Grand Prix and Buick Allure on line #2 and the Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo on line #1.  Late last summer GM announced that the Oshawa Car Plant would be home to the eagerly anticipated Chevrolet Camaro.   This new product program and conversion of the Oshawa plant to a state of the art flexible manufacturing facility represents a C$740 million investment.

Oshawa Car Plant’s Quality Track Record:
2006    Line # 2 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
            Pontiac Grand Prix was recognized as the best vehicle in the Large Car Segment
2005    Line # 2 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
            Line #1 received the J.D. Power SILVER AWARD
Oshawa swept the Premium Midsize segment, with the Century recognized, once again, as “Best in Segment”
            LaCrosse/Allure was recognized as the “Best Launch Vehicle”
2004    Buick Century recognized as the best car in the Premium Midsize          Segment
2003    Line #1 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD Award for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
2002    Line # 2 received the J.D. Power and Associates GOLD AWARD for the Best Quality Assembly Plant in North and South America
            Buick Century recognized as the Best Car in the Premium Mid- Size segment

-30-

For more information, contact:

Patty Faith
General Motors of Canada Limited
905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

 

GM Canada Celebrates the Clean Air Foundation’s Gold Award for Climate Change from the Canadian Environmental Awards

Oshawa, Ontario (June 5, 2007) – General Motors of Canada congratulates the Car Heaven program of the Clean Air Foundation and program director, Fatima Dharsee, for winning the Gold Award for Climate Change at the Canadian Environmental Awards last night in Montreal.

“The Canadian Environmental Awards are the premiere environmental awards in Canada and for the Car Heaven program to be recognized is an outstanding achievement,” says Marc Comeau, vice president, sales, service and marketing, General Motors of Canada.  “We’re delighted with the success of the Car Heaven program, our partnership with the Clean Air Foundation and its positive impact on the environment.”

The Clean Air Foundation developed the Car Heaven program in 2000 to encourage Canadians to retire their old, higher polluting vehicles and to ensure that these vehicles are recycled in the most environmentally responsible manner possible.  In May 2005, GM Canada partnered with the Clean Air Foundation to offer eligible Car Heaven donors $1,000 towards the purchase of a new GM vehicle.  This partnership has proven to be a strong and valuable alliance.  Participation in Car Heaven has more than tripled and the impact on the environment has been significant. 

Through the Car Heaven program, in 2006 alone, more than 16,000 older vehicles were replaced with new GM vehicles.  The emissions of these more than 16,000 old vehicles are equal to the emissions of more than 320,000 new vehicles that have new advanced emission technologies.  In that same year, the program prevented the release of 8,710 tonnes of carbon monoxide, 2,105 tonnes of smog-forming emissions and 26,910 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.    

This is the third major recognition the Car Heaven program has received in 2007.  Earlier this year, the program received a 2007 Environmental Pyramid Award of Recognition from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) for “outside the box” thinking that created a program to help significantly reduce the impact of the automobile on the environment.  Car Heaven was also recognized in the recent federal budget.

The Canadian Environment Awards: A Celebration of Community Achievement is a national program that recognizes individuals and groups of Canadians who have made outstanding contributions to the protection, restoration and preservation of the Canadian environment.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

- 30 -
Contact:
Adria MacKenzie
GM Canada
(905) 644-1824

 

 

GM of Canada’s Saturn Division Posts the Best Sales Month in Its History

 (Non-adjusted sales results –
May 2007 had 26 selling days vs. May 2006 with 25 selling days)

Oshawa, Ontario (June 1, 2007) – For May 2007, General Motors of Canada dealers delivered a total of 45,359 units, up 2.2% over the same month last year.

Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing said, “GM is pleased with our continued growth in May, driven primarily by strong retail sales, up 10.6% overall.  Our Chevrolet and Pontiac divisions remain strong with growth in small cars and small utilities and the continued success of our new Oshawa-built Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups.”

Comeau added “But the real big news is Saturn - posting its best sales month in history.  The momentum is building at Saturn retailers on the heels of introducing exciting new vehicles like the Outlook, award winning Aura sedan and Aura Green Line Hybrid.”

Sales Highlights for May

  • Saturn had the best sales month in its history
  • Overall retail sales were up 10.6% for the month and 5.1% calendar year-to-date
  • Strong performance from small cars like the Chevrolet Aveo and Pontiac Wave and Vibe , up 9.4%, 14.9% and 44.9%, respectively
  • The award winning Oshawa-built Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups continue to perform well, up a combined 23% for the month
  • Small utilities remain strong, with Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, Saturn Vue and Chevrolet HHR up a combined 9.7%
  • The GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave cross-overs have had a solid start, leading GM to a 42.6% overall increase in mid-size utilities
  • The Saab and Cadillac divisions once again posted gains, up 59.5% and 7.8%, respectively

 

GENERAL MOTORS OF CANADA SALES

 

MONTH OF MAY 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

21,507

22,793

-5.6%

TOTAL TRUCKS

23,852

21,568

+10.6%

COMBINED VEHICLES

45,359

44,361

+2.2%

CALENDAR YEAR-TO-DATE: May 31st, 2007

 

2007

2006

% CHG

TOTAL CARS

78,307

84,517

-7.3%

TOTAL TRUCKS

94,151

91,092

+3.4%

COMBINED VEHICLES

172,458

175,609

-1.8%

 

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

 

-30-

For further information, contact:
Patty Faith, 905-644-2728
patty.faith@gm.com

Pricing Announced for the All-New 2008 Saturn Vue
Compact Crossover Vehicle

  • Outstanding value: loaded with standard features, technologies and style
  • Premium ride quality and segment’s widest range of powertrain offerings
  • Comprehensive safety package includes six standard airbags

 

Oshawa, Ontario (June 4, 2007) – GM of Canada announced today that the all-new 2008 Saturn Vue, now available at Saturn retailers across Canada, will start at $26,990 for the front-wheel-drive XE model and $31,275 for the all-wheel-drive XE model.  In the up-level XR trim, the front-wheel-drive model begins at $31,335, and the all-wheel-drive at $33,920.  Additionally, performance orientated Red Line models are available beginning at $36,020 for the front-wheel-drive and $38,605 for the all-wheel-drive model.

The 2008 Vue was designed from the ground up to stand out in the highly competitive compact crossover segment. Boasting a wide array of standard features, the base model 2008 Vue offers much more vehicle than its predecessor and does so with enhanced style, outstanding driving character and a lower price when compared to a similarly equipped 2007 model.

“The 2008 Vue continues the product revitalization at Saturn that has seen four all-new models introduced in the last two years,” said Mike Speranzini, Director of Saturn Canada.  “The all-new Vue is a technically sophisticated and refined crossover that is attractive, safe, versatile and great to drive.  Given these strengths and the very competitive pricing that make it an excellent value, we expect to attract new customers with the Vue and Saturn’s positive customer experience they can count on at our Saturn retailers.”

The 2008 Vue also features the widest range of powertrain choices in the segment.  The XE front-wheel-drive is equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec engine with variable valve timing and mated to a four-speed electronically controlled transmission.  All-wheel-drive Vue XE models come equipped with a 3.5L V-6 engine, delivering 222 horsepower and 219 lb.-ft. of torque, offering a broad torque curve with low-end torque for quick acceleration.  Vue XR and Vue Red Line models are powered by GM’s sophisticated, 60-degree dual overhead cam 3.6L V-6 engine with variable valve timing that delivers an impressive 257 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque.  In addition, Saturn will stay true to its green roots with the continuation of the Green Line hybrid system on the new Vue model this fall, followed next year with a new front-wheel-drive, V-6 application of GM’s two-mode hybrid technology.

The Vue is designed to deliver excellent ride and handling.  At the core of the Vue’s European-inspired driving character is a stiff, steel body-frame integral structure, augmented by model-specific tuning of spring rates and wheel travel.  Front and rear stabilizer bars, MacPherson strut independent front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension, along with a double-isolated engine cradle, add to the smooth, quiet ride.  Hydraulic power-assisted steering on V-6 models, standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, standard traction control and standard GM StabiliTrak electronic stability control system provide outstanding vehicle control.

 In addition to these handling technologies that help drivers avoid crashes, the all-new Vue also helps protect occupants with its high-strength steel structure and a long list of standard crash protection features.  Dual-stage front seat air bags, front seat side thorax air bags and rollover capable head curtain air bags covering front and rear rows are standard on all models.  Other safety features include front-row dual safety belt pretensioners, disengaging collapsible pedals, active head restraints and automatic door locks.  The Vue even features a standard, segment-exclusive electronic Trailer Sway Control feature.

All Vue models come standard with the industry’s best coverage and a suite of owner services, including a three-year/60,000 km vehicle warranty, a five-year/160,000 km powertrain warranty, and OnStar with standard one-year Safe & Sound Plan and available Turn-By-Turn voice-activated navigation.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada.  Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide.  GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada.  Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

 

- 30 -

GM of Canada Contacts:

Tony LaRocca
905-644-1804
tony.larocca@gm.com