GM sales up in February

General Motors Co. today reported total sales of 209,306 vehicles in February, up 1.1 percent compared with the company’s very strong February 2011 results.

“Chevrolet’s 6 percent sales increase, which was driven by new models, as well as a stronger economy, helped GM exceed last February’s remarkably strong result," said Don Johnson, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations. “It’s an affirmation of our progress. We are continuing to execute the same disciplined sales strategy that was the key to our success in 2011."

Industry wide, February light vehicle sales will top 1.1 million units, thanks to stronger employment and credit availability, an improving housing market and the recovery in consumer sentiment, he added.

“Commercial sales are a good barometer for the economy," Johnson said. “GM’s commercial deliveries increased 35 percent in February, driven by strong sales of heavy-duty pickups."

Year-over-year sales of the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD were up 28 percent and 20 percent, respectively. Other sales highlights for February include double-digit sales increases for the Buick LaCrosse, which features the 36-mpg eAssist powertrain as standard equipment, the Chevrolet Equinox and Camaro, and the GMC Terrain.