Fiat/Chrysler finalise merger with merged conference call on sales and ernings

Fiat and Chrysler will for the first time hold a single conference call on their annual results on Wednesday as the two companies finalize a merger that will create the world's seventh-largest auto group.

Fiat said on Jan. 1 that it had struck a $4.35 billion deal to gain full control of Chrysler by buying the remaining 41.46 percent stake that it did not own in the U.S. carmaker from the United Auto Workers VEBA Trust.

The move was the last step needed before the Italian and U.S. carmakers can merge allowing Sergio Marchionne, who heads both companies, to combine their resources as he seeks to cut losses in Europe.

Full ownership of Chrysler enables Marchionne to create a global industry player with better scale to challenge General Motors Co. and Volkswagen Group. He has tried since taking the helm at Fiat in 2004 to buy a competitor to give the struggling Italian manufacturer a worldwide market strategy for growth.

Merging the two companies will allow Fiat to pool cash with Chrysler and tighten cooperation between its Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Maserati brands with Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep.

The 2013 results' conference call will be held at 15:00 CET, Fiat said in a statement on Monday.

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UK - Vauxhall celebrates 12th year as UK #1 commercial vehicle builder

Vauxhall built over 44,000 vans in the UK last year, making it Britain’s number one van maker for the 12th year running, according to figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Bedfordshire-based Vauxhall celebrated 110 years of building and selling vehicles in 2013 and achieving 12 years of manufacturing dominance was the perfect way to round off its landmark year.

Building over treble that of its nearest competitor, Vauxhall manufactured 44,657 Vivaro vans at its Luton plant.  UK Vivaro sales, up 34 per cent year-on-year to 18,180, helped drive production. Vauxhall’s offer of four years’ zero per cent APR finance, four years’ free servicing, a four year warranty and four years’ AA cover, was particularly popular with customers.

“We are delighted to be the UK’s leading van manufacturer for the 12th year running,” said Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director. “The Luton-built Vivaro is the lynchpin of our award-winning van range so it’s a fantastic way to round off our 110th Birthday celebrations.”

The Luton van factory is currently ramping up to build the new Vivaro which goes on sale later this year. Facility changes have begun with important upgrades already installed in the body shop.

Significant investment has been made in the project including €95 million in specific plant changes, €112 million in vendor tooling of which €34 million is in the UK and €12 million on facilities.

Over 40 per cent of content for the new vehicle will be sourced locally. The plant and associated agencies directly employ over 1,200 people in the Luton area, and is a significant contributor to the local and wider UK economies.

UK - British Car manufacturing at 6 year high.

UK CAR MANUFACTURING (data for full year 2013)

• Car production rose 3.1% in 2013 to surpass 1.5 million units – the highest volume since 2007.
• Industry analysts predict output to reach record levels of around two million units by 2017.
• UK could become the third largest car manufacturer in Europe.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, "2013 demonstrated the value of the UK’s diverse car manufacturing industry, as surging home demand and robust exports outside Europe saw output grow 3.1% to over 1.5 million units. UK automotive investment announcements exceeded £2.5 billion in 2013, reinforcing industry analysts’ suggestions that the UK could break all-time car output records within the next four years."


Business Secretary Vince Cable said, "Today's figures are another sign that the British car industry is going from strength to strength – with one vehicle rolling off a production line somewhere in the UK every 20 seconds.

"Our success lies in the appetite from countries around the world for British cars. Around 80% of the 1.5 million cars we produced last year were exported – a testament to the diverse, high quality of British manufacturing.

"It also highlights the benefits of industry and government working together and we want to continue this partnership through a long-term strategy. This will give businesses the confidence to invest, speed up development on vehicles of the future and keep the UK as a world leader in cars. Our investment of £1bn jointly with industry will help do this, while also delivering jobs and driving growth."

• Since 2009, the variety of cars produced in the UK has been underlined by a marked change in export destinations. 
• While the European market has struggled with tough economic conditions, overall export volumes have been bolstered by strong growth in demand for UK-built cars in other locations.
• China’s share of exports has grown rapidly over recent years, and the country now looks set to become the largest non-EU market for UK-built cars.
• Take-up in the United States remained strong last year, and while Russia has seen volumes fall since 2012, it is now firmly established as a key export destination.

About SMMT and UK the automotive industry

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the largest and most influential trade associations in the UK. It supports the interests of the UK automotive industry at home and abroad, promoting a united position to government, stakeholders and the media.

The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy accounting for £59 billion turnover and £12 billion value added. With more than 700,000 jobs dependent on the industry, it accounts for 10% of total UK exports and invests £1.7 billion each year in automotive R&D. More than 30 manufacturers build in excess of 70 models of vehicle in the UK supported by around 2,500 component providers and some of the world's most skilled engineers.

UK - Nissan beats previous sales record with significant increase.

• Nissan sold 118,061 cars in the UK in 2013, up 11.5 per cent on 2012
• Nissan market share in the UK was 5.2 per cent – sixth biggest brand in the UK
• Qashqai sold 50,211 units, up 9.9 per cent, making it UK's sixth best-selling car
• Juke sold 37,488 units, up an incredible 29.9 per cent
• Sunderland production facility output tops 500,000 for a second year

Sales records have been beaten for another year at Nissan, with 118,061 cars sold in 2013, an increase of 11.5 percent on 2012 – itself a record year.  Including LCVs, Nissan sold 128,680 vehicles in the UK, up 11.0 percent from 115,970 in 2012.

Key to these record figures were the performance of two British-built stars: the Juke and Qashqai. Despite the imminent arrival of the second-generation model – which has just arrived in UK showrooms – the Qashqai continued its remarkable success story, notching up 50,211 sales, an incredible 9.9 per cent increase on 2012 and the first time the Qashqai has topped the 50,000 mark. The figures consolidated the Qashqai’s position as the UK’s sixth best-selling car.

The Juke also enjoyed a stellar year, with sales up from 28,862 in 2012 to 37,488 in 2013 – a 29.9 per cent increase. Now in its third year, the British designed and built supermini crossover was boosted by the arrival of a Nismo version that added a sporting edge to the range.

The all-electric LEAF also had a busy year up from 699 sales in 2012 to 1,812 in 2013. As part of Nissan’s growth plan for electric vehicles, European production of a revised LEAF started at Nissan’s Sunderland production facility in April, with the model range growing substantially.

Nissan’s remarkable sales success was set against the backdrop of a record year at Nissan's Sunderland manufacturing facility, which broke the 500,000 unit production barrier for the second year in a row, building an incredible 501,756 vehicles.

NissanLCVs also proved popular with buyers in 2013, with 10,619 light commercial vehicles sold – an increase of 4.7 per cent. The NV200 and Navara were the two biggest sellers, notching up 4,230 and 4,484 sales respectively.

Jim Wright, Managing Director at Nissan GB said: “These figures prove that Nissan is continuing to reap the rewards of hard work and intelligent planning. For the Qashqai to break the 50,000 sales mark in its sixth year of production is testament to its remarkable design and value.

“I’m also immensely proud of our other British success stories, namely the Juke, new Note and LEAF. The Juke’s performance proves that British buyers value bold and innovative design, while the Note and LEAF are welcome additions to the Sunderland stable. To break the 500,000 production barrier for a second year is incredible, especially as the plant has been busy integrating new facilities for new Note and LEAF. With the new Qashqai rolling off the lines, I’m sure that 2014 will be another year to remember.”

Renault Group increases 2013 sales with Dacia surging on its cheap and cheerful image.

Renault sold 3 percent more cars last year on surging demand for the automaker's no-frills Dacia brand.

Group 2013 deliveries rose to 2.63 million cars and light commercial vehicles from 2.55 million a year earlier, the company said today in a statement. Dacia sales soared 19 percent.

Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn is focusing on boosting deliveries in emerging economies and has predicted "tremendous growth" in the entry-level segment that is Dacia's focus. Markets outside Europe accounted for half of the company's 2013 sales.

Renault is building plants in expanding regions and developing more vehicles with Japanese alliance partner Nissan Motor Co. to reduce costs with common components.

"In 2014, in a more favorable market context, we are confirming our profitable growth strategy by continuing our recovery in Europe and increasing our international sales," Chief Performance Officer Jerome Stoll said in the statement.

Renault's entry-level vehicle sales accounted for 41 percent of group deliveries last year, up from 37 percent in 2012, said Francois Rouget, a company spokesman.

Industrywide European car registrations surged 13 percent in December, the biggest jump in almost four years, with the strongest growth at Renault, Ford Motor Co. and regional sales leader Volkswagen Group, the ACEA trade group said on Jan. 16. Even so, full-year deliveries in Europe declined a sixth consecutive year to a 19-year low.

Renault and larger French competitor PSA/Peugeot-Citroen were together among the top three car discounters in Germany throughout 2013, according to German industry publication Autohaus PulsSchlag.

2014 growth

Renault forecast today that industrywide demand in France and across Europe will increase 1 percent in 2014, with deliveries worldwide advancing 2 percent. VW, Peugeot and Renault, Europe's largest carmakers, are all seeking more customers in China, the world's biggest auto market, to make up for a lack of growth in their home region.

Renault signed a joint-venture agreement in December to build an SUV factory with Wuhan-based Dongfeng Motor Group Co. Ghosn said at the time that Nissan, which already works with Dongfeng, will also cooperate in the project to reduce costs.

Demand in China contributed to a 4 percent gain in fourth-quarter global deliveries at PSA, though the company's full-year sales declined 5 percent to 2.82 million vehicles. VW Group delivered more than 9.7 million vehicles worldwide last year, including heavy trucks and buses. It outsold U.S. competitor General Motors Co. in China in 2013 for the first time in nine years.

Ghosn reorganized management last year following the departure of Chief Operating Officer Carlos Tavares, who is set to become PSA's CEO. The operating chief's position was abolished, with Thierry Bollore taking the newly created position of chief competitive officer and Stoll taking the performance post, also a new role at the company.

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Peugoet finished 2013 on a high and looks forward to a better 2014

• Worldwide sales of 1,553,000 vehicles
• International growth

Main Points

• Worldwide sales of 1,553,000 vehicles down 8.7%
• International strategy well underway with sales outside Europe up 10.9 %

o   Percentage of sales outside Europe : 43 %  (39 % in 2012)
o   Sales in China up strongly by 25.8 % : ahead of the market
o   Making progress in Latin America up 5 .8 %

Europe : 879,000 sales , down 7.2 %
o   Strategy to give preference to more profitable channels of distribution
o   Improved performance in the retail market
o   Bounce back during the 4th quarter : registrations up by 3.5%          

• Move up-market strategy confirmed with the successful launches of the 208 GTi and XY, the new 308 and the 2008 Urban Crossover, which benefited from a particularly high level model mix
• Motor Sport: Victory for the 208 at Pikes Peak and at the 24 Hours Nürburgring
• Outlook for 2014 : PEUGEOT will have the youngest range in its history

In 2013, against the background of a generally depressed European market, although now with signs of stabilisation, and overseas markets showing contrasting trends, PEUGEOT recorded 1,553,000 sales worldwide.

Brand strategy for 2014 continues:

Continuation of a dynamic product and launch plan:
o   Expansion of the new PEUGEOT 308 range with a new body style (SW) and new power trains (Blue HDi and Pure Tech plus new automatic gearboxes
o   Renewal in the B1 segment

• Evolution of the  high capacity light commercial vehicle range
• Success of recent launches, 2008, 301, 308, 3008 China, will gain momentum
• Continuation of the Brand’s move up-market strategy
• Recovery expected in the southern European markets, favourable for the weighting of the Brand’s sales in Europe
• PEUGEOT’s continued growth in most emerging markets

Successful launches

2013 saw the PEUGEOT Brand continue the renewal and expansion of its product range.

The PEUGEOT 208 will soon pass 600,000 units produced in Europe and Brazil since its launch in 2012.

In 2013, 208 strengthened its position on the podium in the hotly contested European B2 hatchback segment, particularly in France, Belgium & Luxembourg, Holland, Portugal, and Denmark.

In spring 2013, the 208 range was topped by two new additions, the 208 XY and 208 GTi, which accounted for nearly 9,500 orders by the end of December and nearly a third of 208 customers have chosen the top trim levels (Féline, XY and GTi).

The PEUGEOT 208 also gained success in race car competitions: victory and record broken with the 208 T16 Pikes Peak at the iconic American hill climb race, triple win with the 208 GTi Peugeot Sport in its category in the 24 Hours at Nürburgring and the launches of private racing versions (208 R2, 208 Racing Cup Circuit and 208 T16).

The PEUGEOT 2008 Urban Crossover, with more than 82,000 customer orders since its launch in spring 2013, saw a level of success above its objective in the rapidly expanding CUV category of the B segment.

The strong appeal of the 2008, confirmed by several awards received in Europe, has led to an increase in production capacity at Mulhouse, progressively brought up to 650 units a day.

Qualitative success has also been achieved, with a particularly high trim level mix: 69 % of orders in Europe have been for trim levels 3 & 4 in the 2008 range, against an initial objective of 48 %.

2008’s international development will be realised by its sales launch in China during 2014, then in Brazil in 2015.

At the end of December and after less than three months on sale more than 35,000 orders were received for the new PEUGEOT 308 and that is even before its launch in the UK and various other overseas markets. This latest new car has seen a level of success above the ambitious targets that had been set for it.

With a model mix of more than 50% for trim levels 3 & 4 (Allure & Féline), it also demonstrates that all of the Brand’s models are contributing towards PEUGEOT’s move up-market.

Having already won several awards (France, Switzerland, Spain, Croatia, Slovakia), the new 308 is also one of the 7 finalists for the prestigious 2014 “Car of the Year” Award.

To its many qualities, the new 308 adds safety at the very highest level, as shown by the 5 * rating recently obtained under the new EuroNCAP tests.

In the spring, the new 308 range will expand with a new body style (SW) and new particularly innovative powertrains, such as the 1.6l BlueHDi and the brand new 1.2l THP and a new automatic gearbox.

The new PEUGEOT 301 gave the Brand a new model to conquest in emerging markets (93 % of sales are outside Europe) and with production and sales recently started in China, more than 67,000 examples were sold in 2013.

It made its mark especially in Algeria and Turkey. In 2014, the PEUGEOT 301 will contribute towards the growth of the Brand with a sales volume of 130,000 cars worldwide (of which, 65,000 in China).

PEUGEOT’s move up-market at the heart of the strategy for the brand

In 2013, with 338,000 units, ‘Premium’ vehicles represented 22 % of total sales for the Brand, against 18 % in 2012.

Among those, 89,000 PEUGEOT 508 vehicles were sold, in its internal combustion and HYbrid4 versions, 30 % of which were in China.

The 3008/3008 HYbrid 4 Crossover won 141,000 customers, especially in Europe and in China, while 74,000 examples of the 2008 Urban Crossover have been delivered.

For its part, the RCZ, with the range extended by the radical R version developed by Peugeot Sport, attracted more than 9,200 customers, while the Coupé Cabriolets and the 4008 SUV sold 14,500 and 9,100 units respectively.

Emissions reduction a top priority

PEUGEOT’s environmental commitment can be seen in the figures for 2013: the offering of three HYbrid 4 models, the optimisation of petrol and HDi engines, the extension of the new generation 3-cylinder petrol engines (1.2l VTi) through the range and the wide implementation of Stop & Start e-HDi have allowed the Brand to reduce the weighted average emissions of its European range to 115.2 g/km CO2 (11 months of 2013), against 121.6 g/km CO2 in 2012.

PEUGEOT is continuing its efforts towards the objective of 141.24mpg by 2020: developed in cooperation with TOTAL, the 208 HYbrid FE technology demonstrator explores various solutions and achieves the feat of reducing its emissions to 46 g/km CO2 (123.8mpg).

Europe: PEUGEOT gives preference to profitable sales

Against the background of a European car & light commercial vehicle market that remains competitive on price, down slightly by 1.6 % and on track towards stabilisation during the second half, PEUGEOT adopted a sound commercial approach in 2013 by choosing more profitable channels of distribution.

However, PEUGEOT improved its performance in Europe during 2013 compared to 2012: down by 11.7 % in the first quarter, its registrations then recovered over the year to finish 3.5 % up in the fourth quarter.

The Brand achieved 897,000 registrations (743,000 cars and 154,000 light commercial vehicles), down by 6.1 %, for a market share of 6.5 %, against 6.8 % the year before.

This change reflects an unfavourable market mix, against the background of persistent weakness in the large southern European markets, traditionally the most important for the Brand.

In 2013 the Brand recorded an increased market share for cars & light commercial vehicles in several countries in the area – particularly in France, Portugal and Ireland – and increased volumes in the United Kingdom, Spain and Portugal. It should be noted that in Spain, PEUGEOT shares the leadership of the total overall market and is the undisputed forerunner in the LCV market.

In Central and Eastern Europe, in the context of a market that had stabilised globally, PEUGEOT saw its registrations increase by 6.3 %, with noticeable increases for the main markets in the region (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia).

In the European LCV market, PEUGEOT maintained its strong position with a quasi-stable market share of 10.5%.

Strong progress in overseas markets

With 673,000 assembled vehicles, the percentage of PEUGEOT’S sales outside Europe jumped from 39 to 43 %, in line with the Brand’s objective of achieving 50 % of its sales outside Europe by 2015.

2013 demonstrated the Brand’s acceleration in nearly all of the major regions in the world showing growth.

In China the biggest vehicle market in the world, PEUGEOT is outperforming with vehicle registrations growth of 25.8 % (+ 19 % for the market), at 272,000 units and a market share of 1.8% (1.7% in 2012).

PEUGEOT is reaping the rewards of an ambitious product policy (two launches in 2014 : 3008 China and 301), the development of its Dealer network (540 Dealers at the end of 2013), its rigorous approach to Chinese customers (Number 1 in the JD Power China classification for after sales service quality) and the development of new power units (e-Power).

In Latin America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico) PEUGEOT registrations grew by 4.6% in a market up 2.9% albeit with contrasting results across the region.

In Argentina with 98,300 registrations, an increase of 21.6% - nearly double that of the market - PEUGEOT achieved a new historical record.

The successful launch of the PEUGEOT 208 should be noted in particular, on sale from summer 2013 and already in 2nd place in a B segment (second half), which accounts for 65 % of the Argentine market.

In Chile PEUGEOT’s registrations saw growth of 33.1 %, to 12,000 units, in a market up 10.3 %

In Mexico registrations grew by 33.4 %, to 6,900 units, widely outperforming the increase in the market (+ 7.9 %).

In Brazil on the other hand, in difficult economic circumstances and a very strained vehicle market, the PEUGEOT 208, launched during the year, has not yet made it possible for the Brand to return to growth. PEUGEOT sold 57,500 vehicles, down by 20.2 % in a market itself also slightly down (-1.5 %).

In Russia where the market contracted by 5.4% in 2013, the Brand decided to restrict its sales, profitability being seriously impacted by a very unfavourable Euro-Rouble exchange rate. Against this rather special context, PEUGEOT registrations in Russia reached 33,900 units in 2013, down by 23.8%.

On the other hand, sales were up 26.3% (5,400 units) in Ukraine, in a market that is also down.

In the Mediterranean region, success has been achieved.

In Algeria in a market going through a period of slight consolidation (-1.5 %), PEUGEOT established a new sales record, at 74,400 registrations (+ 12.1 %), a result helped by the success of the new PEUGEOT 301. The Brand, market leader for the first time in ten years, recorded a penetration of 17.0% (15 % in 2012).

Finally, in Turkey thanks also to the warm welcome given to the PEUGEOT 301, the Brand saw its registrations grow by 15.1 % in 2013, to 34,000 units (+ 9.8 % for the market).

USA - Tesla sales in the fourth quarter of 2013 were the highest in company history by a significant margin

Tesla sales in the fourth quarter of 2013 were the highest in company history by a significant margin. With almost 6,900 vehicles sold and delivered, Tesla exceeded prior guidance by approximately 20%. A higher than expected number of cars was manufactured as a result of an excellent effort by the Tesla production team and key suppliers, particularly Panasonic.

The two key drivers of demand were the superlative safety record of the Model S and great performance under extremely cold conditions.

Safety Record

Tesla remains the only manufacturer with a perfect safety record of zero deaths or serious, permanent injuries ever. Including the Roadster, Tesla vehicles have now been on the road for almost six years in 31 countries with almost 200 million miles driven to date. Despite dozens of high speed collisions, the driver and passengers have always been protected. This is Tesla’s proudest achievement.

Independent testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Tesla Model S a 5 star safety rating overall and in every subcategory without exception. Of all vehicles tested, including every major make and model approved for sale in the United States, the Model S set a new record for the lowest likelihood of injury to occupants. While the Model S is a sedan, it also exceeded the safety score of all SUV’s and minivans.

Excellent Cold Weather Performance

Due to the precision of its electric powertrain, the Model S has outstanding traction control relative to the much higher latency and inertia of a gasoline powertrain. As a result, it is able to perform better on snow and ice than many all-wheel drive gasoline cars, as shown in this Tesla produced video:

Dacia celebrates first birthday in the UK, with exceptional sales.

2013 might have been a turning point for the economy, but cost-conscious Brits, from all classes, continued to make their money work harder than ever. With old school “value for money” sweeping the high street, 12 months ago, one fledgling brand, Dacia, embarked on its mission to shake up the UK car industry with its unique take on “shockingly affordable” motoring.

And what a record-breaking year it’s been. Western European buyers have been snapping up Dacias in their thousands for years. But, because of their stunning success, aside from “eye spy” Dacia spots in sunnier climes, like typical Brits, while the French and Germans, among others, eagerly filled their boots, we’d queued up patiently to see what all the fuss was about. All that changed on 17th January, as the Duster and Sandero burst onto the scene. Literally. On that day, the ‘Dacia don’t do frivolity. You Do The Maths’ media campaign hit every media channel, and all main Dacia Retailers had their first Duster SUV and Sandero supermini demonstrator cars available.

Right up until launch, the word on the street and the internet was that there was no way the brand’s bullish aim of offering a new supermini for “significantly less than £7,000”, let alone a spacious, family SUV for “under £10,000” would stack up in the real world. Or, at least with them making a profit. Oh, how wrong they were. With customers queueing up at its showrooms in their droves, awards pouring in, plus two more new models up its sleeve for release later in the year, Dacia fast became the envy of many established rivals right from the start.

Much of it didn’t come as a huge surprise to parent company, Renault. The Dacia brand, already the darling of the automotive industry, continues to ride the crest of a wave. Bucking the trend in many countries with falling sales and ever-decreasing profit margins, it had cleverly carved out its own niche, filling a void left behind by other brands who had their hearts set on becoming more upmarket.  

Of course, plenty of us had already seen Dacias and the brand’s value phenomenon sweep across Europe and the Euromed. But, for most, aside from the inimitable James May’s obsession with the brand, this was their first chance to see, touch and drive them for themselves.

The brand came to the UK with one mission. To shake up the long stagnant new and used UK car markets by offering “shockingly affordable” vehicles with high levels of quality and unrivalled space and equipment for the money. A car from one class for the price of the one below if you like. Or, in the case of Duster, two below. And boy, did the Great British public grasp the concept. With both hands.

Amidst a publicity blitz in true ‘break the rules’ style at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2012, surrounded by some of the finest supercars and most valuable classic cars the world has to offer, Dacia brazenly slapped “from £8,995” decals on the side of its Duster SUV and set about offering the eager British public their first taste of what it had to offer. Less than hour into the event, unprecedented demand meant extra staff had to be drafted in to help on the stand and the waiting list grew longer and longer for those desperate to get behind the wheel.

While plenty of other car marques struggled, with a winning combination of attractive models, impressive quality and straightforward pricing, Dacia already boasted 5,000 orders for its Duster SUV and Sandero within just eight weeks of them arriving in showrooms in January.

In April and May, it put the cat amongst the pigeons with two more milestones. First, it confirmed prices for its Volvo-estate load-rivalling Logan MCV (Maximum Capacitiy Vehicle). A steal from just £6,995, it continues to undercut anything close by thousands of pounds. Then in May, the chunky Sandero Stepway supermini crossover hit UK showrooms, from only £7,995.

And the success didn’t end there. The brand immediately hit the awards trail, driving off with some of the most prestigious titles in the car industry. In its first year. Even before most had even seen one, Duster picked up the overall Scottish Car of the Year trophy, while its smaller sibling, Sandero followed up the SUV’s success, by snaffling “Best Budget Car” several months later. The new car buyers’ bible, What Car?, wasn’t slow to spot the brand’s potential either. In only its launch month it honoured Sandero with “Best Supermini under £12,000”. Among other noteworthy trophies throughout the year were several for Duster’s 4x4 and towing abilities, including Caravan Club and Towcar, plus a hat-trick from Carbuyer.co.uk, including Car of the Year, for its “sensational value”.

In pure sales terms, the figures speak for themselves in 2013:

• Dacia - the fastest growing car brand in UK, overall and in retail
• The most successful UK car brand launch in retail ever (based on initial 12 months sales)
• 17,146 sales with a market share of 0.76% - with only two models initially (Duster and Sandero). Sandero Stepway arrived in May and Logan MCV in September 
• With a full four-model line up in the final four months of the year it outsold brands like Mazda and Volvo in retail
• 96.7% of Dacia sales are in the retail market where it has a share of 1.4%

So, the best-selling Dacia in 2013 was? Unsurprisingly, given its unrivalled price, size and 4x4 versions, Duster led the way with 7,830 sales. Following not far behind was the all-new Sandero. Offering supermini levels of space for city car cash, unsurprisingly, the “UK’s most affordable new car”, went down a storm, finding 5,025 homes. Both got chased down rapidly by Sandero Stepway too, after its launch in May, with 3,770 sales. The last one to join the “shockingly affordable” fold, the load-swallowing Logan MCV estate, notched up 521 in its initial 14 weeks in showrooms.

The omens aren’t looking too shabby so far for Dacia in 2014 either. Funny that. Having sold more than 17,000 cars in 2013, with an ever-growing fanbase and four models available to tempt British buyers for the full year, it’s setting its sights on smashing that figure this year.

Caterham cars breaks export sales record for 2013

Caterham Cars has sold more vehicles to overseas buyers in 2013 than in any other year in the firm’s history. Its export sales now represent over 61 percent of all units sold.

Thanks to its expanding export team, the British sportscar marque has notched up over 300 export sales of its famous two-seater Seven model in 2013, outstripping last year’s total by 25 per cent.

Outside of the UK, Caterham Cars’ largest market is France accounting for almost a third of its overseas sales in 2013.  Japan follows closely, almost doubling its sales year on year. More progress is expected in the Japanese market, thanks to the introduction of the new Seven 130*.

Meanwhile Swiss dealer Kumschick Sports Cars cemented its 30-year relationship with the iconic British sports car with the most successful sales year in over a decade; the best-selling model being the Seven 485.

Caterham’s profile also continues to rise across the Atlantic, thanks to the success of its partnership with Dyson Racing which imports the SP/300.R racer. Caterham recently announced Superformance as its sole new North American importer for its Seven products and the appointment has already seen a positive impact on sales. Caterham intends to see USA sales volumes rise over the next three years as it further develops the local market.

Overseas expansion continues further afield with new dealers already appointed in South American markets Chile, Peru and Colombia.

David Ridley, Chief Commercial Officer of Caterham Cars, said: “Caterham’s ethos - to deliver accessible fun – is well-known by the motoring public in the UK, but we are now applying that philosophy across Europe and beyond. It’s satisfying to see consistent demand in our established markets like France, Japan and the USA, and it’s also very encouraging to see a growing demand from our new territories. Our on-going participation in Formula One is, in part, to thank for our growing global brand awareness”

“Caterham is the sort of brand which attracts genuine fans who are passionate about its heritage and potential. These unique qualities and a growing demand for genuine British products have helped us to steadily expand sales overseas. Several new models at the top and entry point of the range have also attracted new customers to the brand.”

Contributing to the strong export performance are new models which conform to strict EU6 regulations, including the powerful, 240ps Seven 485 and the innovative entry-level Seven 165. Caterham’s one-make racing championships also continue to develop strongly in markets outside of the UK.

Known for its extreme performance, handling finesse and low weight, the Seven range starts at £14,995** in the UK and €19,995 in mainland Europe (+ local taxes).

The Caterham Group – formed by a team led by Tony Fernandes – incorporates Caterham Cars, Caterham F1 Team, Caterham Technology & Innovation, Caterham Composites and the recently-announced Caterham Bikes division.

VW group posts impressive sales figures for 2013

• Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler: “Renewed increase in deliveries is very good achievement by all brands. Market developments in 2014 expected to be similar to 2013.”

The Volkswagen Group reported yet another strong increase in worldwide deliveries for the full year 2013, topping the record set in 2012. “In total, our Group delivered over 9.7 million vehicles to customers last year, ranging from small city cars to heavy trucks – more than ever before,” Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler said, commenting on the overall delivery figures which also include estimates for the MAN and Scania brands. Klingler continued: “Across the board, all brands contributed to these very positive results which are a very good achievement in light of the difficult conditions on markets all over the world. As far as the current year is concerned, we expect market developments on a level similar to 2013. Even though the situation in Europe would appear to be stabilising, economic uncertainty will continue and the challenges we will be facing on markets will remain virtually unchanged.”

Excluding the heavy truck brands of MAN and Scania, the Volkswagen Group delivered 9.5 (2012: 9.1; +4.8 per cent)* million vehicles in twelve months. The Group finished the month of December with a 6.3 per cent increase, delivering 833,200 (December 2012: 784,100)* units.

Developments in the various regions and world markets were mixed. Group brands delivered 3.65 (3.67; -0.5 per cent) million vehicles on the overall European market from January to December, of which 1.85 (1.85; +0.1 per cent) million units were handed over in Western Europe (excluding Germany). 1.16 (1.18; -1.4 per cent) million customers chose a new model from the Volkswagen Group in the home market of Germany. Europe’s largest automaker delivered 639,500 (644,300; -0.7 per cent) vehicles in the Central and Eastern Europe region. 303,200 (317,700; -4.6 per cent) vehicles were handed over to customers in the Russian market during the same period.

Deliveries in the North America region from January to December grew 5.6 per cent to 888,800 (841,500) units, of which 611,700 (596,100; +2.6 per cent) were delivered in the United States. In the South America region, the Volkswagen Group handed over 908,000 (1,010,100; -10.1 per cent) million vehicles to customers during the same period, of which 682,200 (780,200; -12.6 per cent) were delivered in Brazil.

The Group recorded very encouraging figures in the Asia-Pacific region, where 3.64 (3.17; +14.7 per cent) million vehicles were delivered to customers in the period to December, of which 3.27 (2.81; +16.2 per cent) million were handed over to customers in China (incl. Hong Kong), the Group’s largest single market. In contrast, deliveries in India declined to 92,600 (114,100; -18.9 per cent) units.

Outline of developments at Group brands

The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand delivered 5.93 (5.74; +3.4 per cent) million vehicles to customers worldwide during the full year. The brand developed well in the Asia-Pacific region, handing over 2.73 (2.37; +15.0 per cent) million vehicles there. Volkswagen Passenger Cars delivered 1.64 (1.70; -3.7 per cent) million vehicles to customers on the overall European market, where conditions remained difficult, of which 560,100 (586,100; -4.4 per cent) units were handed over in the home market of Germany.

Audi delivered 1.58 (1.46; +8.3 per cent) million vehicles worldwide in 2013. The premium brand from Ingolstadt developed particularly well in the Asia-Pacific region, where customers took possession of 579,100 (478,900; +20.9 per cent) new vehicles. Audi delivered 190,300 (168,800) models in the North America region during the same period, an increase of 12.7 per cent.

The sports car manufacturer Porsche, which became a Volkswagen Group brand on August 1, 2012, recorded full-year deliveries totaling 162,100 vehicles. Demand for vehicles built by the Stuttgart-based carmaker was particularly high in the Asia-Pacific region, where 49,700 units were delivered, and in the North America region, where 46,700 vehicles were handed over to customers.

ŠKODA delivered a total of 920,800 (939,200; -2.0 per cent) vehicles in 2013. The Czech automaker grew deliveries for the full year in Western Europe (excluding Germany), handing over 233,200 (225,900; +3.2 per cent) units. The company delivered 251,800 (261,100; -3.5 per cent) vehicles to customers in the Central and Eastern Europe region.

SEAT delivered 355,000 (321,000) vehicles worldwide in 2013, an increase of 10.6 per cent. The Spanish brand benefited in particular from a tailwind in Germany, where deliveries grew 20.3 per cent to 76,600 (63,700) units, as well as in the UK, where the company delivered 45,700 (39,000; +17.0 per cent) units.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 551,900 (550,200; +0.3 per cent) vehicles to customers last year, of which 159,400 (161,200; -1.1 per cent) units were handed over in Western Europe (excluding Germany). In contrast, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles grew deliveries in the South America region by 8.3 per cent, handing over 160,400 (148,100) vehicles to customer there.

*) including deliveries by the Porsche brand from August 1, 2012; excluding MAN and Scania

Jaguar Land Rover delivers best ever full year global sales performance retailing 425,006 vehicles in 2013, up 19%

• New sales records set in thirty eight international markets for both brands
• Jaguar delivers strongest full year performance since 2005 retailing 76,668 vehicles, up 42%
• Land Rover sets another full year record retailing 348,338 vehicles, up 15%
• Jaguar is the fastest growing brand in Germany, India and the USA
• Global sales success driven by range of new and award winning product introductions
• Jaguar and Land Rover models receive more than 195 international awards with the Jaguar F-TYPE the most decorated vehicle

Jaguar Land Rover, the UK's leading manufacturer of premium luxury vehicles has delivered its strongest ever full year global sales performance thanks to the introduction of a series of multi award winning new vehicles in 2013. Full year retail sales stood at 425,006, up 19%, with strong growth in all major regions and new records set in 38 markets, including Russia, Brazil, Korea and Canada. Regional performance for the full year was as follows: Asia Pacific and the China region up 30%, North America up 21%, the UK up 14%, Europe up 6%, and other overseas markets up 23%.

Commenting on the company’s sales performance, Dr. Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover CEO said: “2013 has proven to be a very positive year for Jaguar Land Rover thanks to continuing strong demand for vehicles across the range. Our unrelenting focus on design, technology, innovation and quality has seen Jaguar Land Rover reach global consumers in more markets than ever before thanks to its most desirable product line-up, enriched further in 2013 by the Jaguar F-TYPE and all-new Range Rover Sport”.

2013 Awards 

Jaguar Land Rover‘s enhanced stable of products received 195 awards in 2013. Jaguar received 80 awards with its most decorated model, the F-TYPE earning the World Car Design of the Year, Germany’s most prestigious award, The Golden Steering Wheel award for the Cabriolet & Coupe Category and BBC Topgear magazine Convertible of the year. Notably Jaguar also received coveted recognition from J.D. Power, being named the UK’s number one automotive brand in the Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Survey (VOSS) and the highest ranking manufacturer among luxury brands in the US J.D. Power Sales Satisfaction Index Study (SSI).

Land Rover’s full range of vehicles received 115 honours in 2013 with Range Rover topping the Land Rover awards table with 55 accolades including, Luxury Car of the Year by What Car? in the UK, Women’s Luxury Car of the Year by the Women’s World Car of the Year jury and Best Luxury SUV from Edmunds.com and Forbes. Range Rover also achieved the Highest APEAL Score of any model in the J.D. Power 2013 APEAL survey – the first time a model outside the large premium car segment has ranked highest among all models in the industry. The Range Rover Sport, launched in 2013 also received a host of awards including, SUV of the Year by Topgear magazine, Guangzhou Daily in China, Bloomberg.com and EVO magazine in the Middle East.

Jaguar 2013 Sales Performance

Jaguar recorded a 42% year on year increase in sales, selling 76,668 vehicles in 2013 - its strongest full year sales performance since 2005 with new records set in 17 markets including, Brazil, India, Russia and China. The iconic British motoring marque also emerged as the fastest growing premium brand in the USA, Germany and India in 2013. This strong global performance was primarily driven by F-TYPE introduction and a new annual record for XF retailing 47,391 saloon and Sportbrake derivatives. XJ also delivered its best full year performance for ten years with 19,677 vehicle sales with particular strong demand from North America and China thanks to the introduction of the All-Wheel Driveline and an enhanced engine line up which includes the 3.0 V6 and 2.0 4-cylinder petrol engines.

Jaguar delivered year on year increases in every major region with North America now the brand’s top selling region. Full year regional performances were as follows: the China Region up significantly, North America up 44%, Asia Pacific up 33%, Europe up 17%, the UK up 15% and other overseas markets up 31%.

Land Rover 2013 Sales Performance

Land Rover set a new full year sales record retailing 348,338 vehicles in 2013, up 15% on the prior year following record sales of the Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque and an incredible performance from all- new Range Rover Sport which was close to equaling its prior record set in 2007, despite having only been on sale for part of the year. The Freelander 2 also delivered a very strong full year performance, up 20% on the prior year.

Sales were up for Land Rover in every major region with annual sales records set in 42 markets, including the UK, USA, Brazil and India.  Full year regional performances were as follows: Asia Pacific up 29%, the China Region up 17%, North America up 15%, the UK up 13%, Europe up 4%, and other overseas markets up 22%.

Commenting on the sales success, Andy Goss, Jaguar Land Rover Group Sales Operations Director said: “2013 has been a great year in which we have seen some incredibly exciting new models launched to customers across the world. The Range Rover Sport, F-TYPE, new engines and drivetrains, and a number of 14 Model Year enhancements to our existing line up have seen Jaguar Land Rover continue to build strong sales momentum in every global region.

It is not just our customers who are delighting in our strongest ever vehicle line up, international journalists bestowed almost 200 awards on our vehicles in 2013 with the F-TYPE, our star performer receiving more than 59 accolades. This recognition is a demonstration that Jaguar Land Rover’s focus is on delivering cars that surpass customer expectations.”

Vauxhall celebrates becoming number one brand in Northern Ireland

• Vauxhall is Northern Ireland’s number one car maker for private buyers
• Market share up to 12 per cent in 110th Birthday year
• Innovative Flexible Finance and Lifetime Warranty drive growth

Vauxhall was the number one car manufacturer for private buyers in Northern Ireland for the second year running, with over 3,500 cars sold.

Innovative programmes such as Flexible Finance, a zero per cent APR offer, and Lifetime Warranty helped drive retail sales and boost market share to 12 per cent.

“We are delighted to be Northern Ireland’s number one manufacturer to private buyers, for the second year running,” said Gordon Hannen, Vauxhall’s Regional Operations Manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“With market share up and strong sales to private buyers it was the perfect way to round off Vauxhall’s 110th anniversary year.

“It’s exciting times for Vauxhall with three new models launched in 2013 and more to follow this year.

“We’re also in the middle of a raft of new engine launches, which will continue for the next two years, making our products more refined, efficient and desirable for customers. One way or another, it’s clear that Vauxhall will be a force to be reckoned with in 2014.”

Skoda finishes 2013 below 2012 figures, but 2014 will be better.

• ŠKODA delivers 920,800 vehicles to customers in 2013 (2012: 939,200)
• Powerful final sprint with the best December in corporate history: 70,000 deliveries (December 2012: 66,200 deliveries, up 5.8%)
• ŠKODA model campaign proves its strength
• For the first time ŠKODA’s European market share grows to over 4%
• China is once again ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013 with 227,000 sales
• Product campaign continues: a new model every six months on average

ŠKODA AUTO has successfully implemented its international growth strategy in 2013 again, selling 920,800 vehicles worldwide (2012: 939,200). Following the model launches in the first six months, ŠKODA saw significant growth later in the year, and recently achieved the best ever December for ŠKODA.

In the last month of the year, the company delivered 70,000 vehicles to customers, which is an increase of 5.8% over the previous December-record, set in 2012. In the years ahead, ŠKODA plans to grow further. To achieve this continued growth, the manufacturer will be introducing a new or revised model on average every six months until 2016.

“ŠKODA has demonstrated its strength this year. Despite the above-average number of production start-ups and fierce headwinds from some markets, we achieved the second-best sales year in corporate history - This is an excellent result,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “2013 was a record year with more new ŠKODA models than ever before. Eight new or completely revised models show the power of the ŠKODA brand. The winged arrow is shining, and our new cars are being very well received. Our attractrive model range, good flow of incoming orders and increasingly bright future on the European automotive markets make us confident for 2014.”

2013 - the third year of the ŠKODA growth strategy - was both a successful and an intense year for the Czech carmaker. Eight new or revised models, twelve international production start-ups, expansion of capacity in the Czech Republic, as well as in the growth markets of China and Russia, added to this the crisis in some markets: “2013 was really quite a year!” says Dr. Vahland. After the first half of the year had been characterized by the difficult market situation in Europe, as well as the production start-ups and the associated lower production volumes, ŠKODA was back on track in the second half of the year. With the full availability of the new models, sales increased significantly each month from September onwards. “Our model campaign is now showing its full strength. We are growing strongly and expanding our market shares continuously,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing.

The new models have been very well received - especially the new ŠKODA Octavia, which is once again proving to be a great hit. In December, ŠKODA Octavia grew once again in Western Europe with high double-digit growth rates: up 52.3% compared to December 2012. In Europe as a whole, the Octavia recorded an increase of 19.1% in December.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA performed significantly better than the overall declining market in 2013. 369,600 vehicles sold represents an increase of 3.1% compared to 2012 (358,400). In December, Western European sales even rose by 17.8% to 31,300 vehicles (December 2012: 26,600). The ŠKODA market share in Western Europe increased for the year as a whole to 3.2% (2012: 3.0%). In the second largest market, Germany, ŠKODA grew to 136,400 deliveries in 2013, which is an increase over the previous year of 2.9% (132,600). The market share rose to 4.6% and ŠKODA continues to build its position as the strongest import brand in Germany.

In the UK, the manufacturer increased deliveries to customers over the past year by 24% to a new record high of 66,000 vehicles (2012: 53,200). The Czech brand also achieved double-digit growth in Denmark, up 40.7 % to 14,600 vehicles (2012: 10,400). Sales in Spain have also seen a positive increase (13,400 vehicles; +3.0%), Italy (12,100 vehicles; +2.0%), Norway (6,800 vehicles; +2.1%) and Sweden (12,300 vehicles, +1.4%).

In Eastern Europe, including Russia, ŠKODA delivered 125,400 vehicles to customers last year (2012: 137,100; -8.5%). ŠKODA’s market share reached 4%. In ŠKODA’s third-largest market, Russia, the manufacturer achieved 87,500 deliveries (2012: 99,100; -11.7%). The new Octavia was introduced there in the second half of the year. The Rapid is to follow in the first six months of 2014. Considerable growth was also seen in Kazakhstan in 2013, where 4,700 customers decided on a new ŠKODA, which is an increase of 145.7% over the previous year (1,900). ŠKODA achieved growth in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), where the brand grew by 3.4% to 4,600 vehicles sold in 2013 (2012: 4,500). In Serbia ŠKODA increased deliveries by 12.4% to 4,200 units (2012: 3,700).

ŠKODA grew once again in Central Europe in 2013. Deliveries to customers rose by 2.0% to 126,500 vehicles (2012: 124,000). ŠKODA’s market share rose to 19.2%. In December, brand deliveries in Central Europe grew by 13.5% to 11,300 (December 2012: 9,900). In the domestic market - the Czech Republic, ŠKODA sold a total of 60,000 vehicles in 2013, an increase of 0.6% (2012: 59,700). ŠKODA is defending its top position also in Poland. With 38,700 vehicles sold (2012: 36,300), representing an increase of 6.6% over the same period last year, the Czech carmaker remains the undisputed market leader for 2013.

Once again, China was ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013, where the manufacturer delivered a total of 227,000 vehicles to customers (2012: 235,700 units; -3.7 %). The market launch of the new Octavia is on the cards only for the start of 2014. In India ŠKODA achieved a total of 22,600 deliveries in 2013 (2012: 34,300; -34.2%). In 2013 ŠKODA was also particularly successful in Israel (14,400; +11.7%), Turkey (12,800; +23.2%) and Algeria (9,100, +85.3%).

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in 2013 (in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (359,600; -12.2 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (202,000; -16.0 %)
ŠKODA Superb (94,400; -13.4 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (82,400; -5.7 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (33,300; -12.3 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (103,800; +320.3 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (Only sold in Europe: 45,200; +51.0 %)

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in December 2013 (in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over the same month in 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (25,400; +3.5 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (14,400; -18.5 %)
ŠKODA Superb (5,100; -18.9 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (6,700; -5.6 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,900; +2.1 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (12,400; +312.4 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,100; -34.3 %)

SEAT announces worldwide increases to better 2012 by 10.6%

• Following stunning result for SEAT UK, SEAT S.A. announces 10.6% global sales increase for 2013
• 355,000 vehicles delivered is SEAT’s highest for five years
• SEAT is one of the fastest growing brands in Europe
• Double digit increases for Leon (44%) and Mii (43%)

SEAT sales jumped up by 10.6% in 2013, as the Spanish brand delivered 355,000 vehicles worldwide – its highest number for five years, and 34,000 more than 2012’s figure.

In its main area of Western Europe, SEAT’s 9.4% increase puts it among the fastest growing brands in Europe, despite operating in a sector that’s contracted overall. SEAT sold 273,200 vehicles in Western Europe in 2013, 23,500 more than in 2012.

SEAT Chairman Jürgen Stackmann underscores that “the company is having sales momentum, particularly in Europe, where SEAT is growing faster than the competition in a contracting market.”

European success

In its biggest market, Germany, SEAT delivered 76,600 vehicles, a 20.3% increase over the previous year. SEAT was the fastest-growing brand in Germany, and has placed itself amongst the top ten selling brands. In Spain, SEAT returned to positive performance figures and increased sales by 6.0% (58,900 cars), above the market average. In the United Kingdom, its third-largest market, the Spanish brand enjoyed its fifth successive year of growth (16.8%), with more than 45,300 sales the highest that SEAT UK has ever achieved in a year.

SEAT also closed 2013 with record sales in other markets like Switzerland (8,300 units; up 5.2%) and Denmark (6,300; up 37.6%), alongside other European markets.

The key to SEAT’s positive performance in Europe is the Leon, of which more than 102,000 units have been sold worldwide, a 44.4% increase. The new five-door Leon is the best-selling SEAT model in many countries (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Turkey, among others). SEAT Sales and Marketing Vice President Dr. Andreas Offermann asserts that “full availability of the Leon family should sustain growth in 2014.”

Growth in North Africa, Middle East and Mexico

SEAT also seized opportunities outside Europe; thanks to 13.0% growth, almost one of every five vehicles SEAT built in 2013 was sold outside of Europe (64,600 units). So, for the first time, SEAT has three non-European countries amongst its top ten: Mexico (5th), Algeria (6th) and Turkey (8th).

In Algeria, where SEAT already quadrupled its sales in 2012, it continued to grow last year, by 26.9%, and concluded 2013 with 20,500 units sold. The big novelty for 2013 was Turkey, where sales almost doubled (90.4%) with the brand marketing 11,100 units. SEAT ended 2013 with the highest sales figures in its history for both these countries. In Mexico SEAT grew for the fourth successive year (0.4%), sales totalling 21,200 units.

“In 2014, in spite of the still-persisting difficulties in the economic environment, we intend to continue working hard to make constant progress. We have a fantastic product range which will continue to grow around the Leon family, the heart of the SEAT brand,”declares Chairman Jürgen Stackmann.

Deliveries to customers in 2013 (by models, in units and percentage annual growth)

SEAT Mii (28,900; +43.2%)
SEAT Ibiza (154,100; -7.7%)
SEAT Toledo (19,000; launched in November 2012)
SEAT Leon (102,800; +44.4%)
SEAT Altea (23,700; -19.7%)
SEAT Alhambra (20,000; +4.0%)
SEAT Exeo (6,500; production discontinued in July 2013)

Rolls Royce finished 2013 with record sales for 4th consecutive year.

• 3,630 cars delivered to customers in 2013, the fourth consecutive record year and the highest in the marque’s history.
• Rolls-Royce confirms leadership of super-luxury segment over Euros 200,000 net.
• Rolls-Royce remains the world’s leading super-luxury automobile.
• Bespoke content at highest-ever levels.
• Rolls-Royce motor cars are now sold in more than 40 countries worldwide.
• China and United States in top two regional positions.
• 100 new jobs to be created at the Goodwood-based manufacturing plant in 2014.
• Rolls-Royce reaffirms position at pinnacle of British luxury goods manufacturing.
• Highest annual sales are announced in the marque’s 110th year.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today revealed record sales results for 2013. 3,630 cars were sold globally during the year, which represents the company’s fourth consecutive record. The result is announced in the 110th year of the marque.

These results confirm Rolls-Royce’s clear position as the world’s leading super-luxury brand.  Strong sales growth was reported across the globe, with notable results seen in the Middle East (up 17%) and China (up 11%). Several countries recorded strong sales performances, including Germany, Japan, Qatar and Canada. China and the United States remained the most significant individual markets for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars followed by the Middle East. Rolls-Royce sold motor cars in more than 40 countries worldwide, building on success in emerging markets such as Istanbul, Beirut, Lagos, Hanoi, Perth, Taichung, Queensland
and Perth.

As part of the company’s commitment to long-term sustainable growth, there was significant dealer development during the year. 15 new dealerships opened across the world, taking the total to 120 for the first time in the company’s history. Further dealership expansion is planned for 2014.

The Company also announced a 2014 recruitment programme for 100 new permanent jobs based at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, primarily in the manufacturing areas. This is in addition to the 100 new jobs announced in July 2013. More than 1300 people are now employed by Rolls-Royce worldwide.

“I stated at the beginning of last year that I wished to see further sustainable growth, I am therefore delighted with this fourth successive record year, a result that reaffirms our leadership of the super-luxury segment,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “This is an extraordinary British manufacturing success story borne out of a commitment to delivering only the very finest super-luxury goods. I am particularly satisfied to report that this result is based on a balanced global sales picture, with continued success in emerging markets paving the way for future sustainable growth.”

Business Secretary Vince Cable said, “Rolls-Royce’s impressive sales record and the new jobs they have created shows the strength of this iconic brand and reflects the rising success of the British car industry. Last year, car exports generated over £30 billion for our economy – a rise of around 7%. The Government's industrial strategy is giving businesses like Rolls-Royce the confidence to invest – delivering skilled jobs and driving growth.”

Andrew Tyrie, Member of Parliament for Chichester, said, “This is very good news for Britain and for my constituents. I’m delighted for Rolls-Royce and for all those who work there. It’s great to have such a centre of excellence near Chichester.”

2013 also marked another record for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke personalisation programme, a service unmatched in the automotive world. Nearly every Phantom family model, and three out of every four Ghosts, left the Home of Rolls-Royce with bespoke personalisation.

Wraith was offered with Bespoke capability from the start of production and many customers have already taken the opportunity to personalise their new motor cars. Sales were also enhanced by several exceptional bespoke collections in 2013, including Home of Rolls-Royce and Alpine Trial Centenary, and a number of unique creations, including the Celestial Phantom and Ghost Golden Sunbird.

The company’s portfolio includes the pinnacle Phantom family products – Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé – and the Ghost family – Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase. Demand for all variants was strong. The company’s new model, Wraith, was unveiled in March at the Geneva Motor Show to worldwide acclaim and the first customer cars were delivered during the fourth quarter. Wraith already has a strong order book.

Rolls‑Royce has successfully retained its position at the very pinnacle of the super-luxury market, maintaining segment leadership for motor cars selling above Euros 200,000 net. No other luxury brand sells as many cars in this segment as Rolls-Royce.

Heritage: 110th Year Anniversary

The company founders, the Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls and Frederick Henry Royce (later Sir Henry Royce) first met in May 1904 at the Midland Hotel in Manchester. Both parties knew each other by repute and they were introduced by Henry Edmunds, a business associate, fellow pioneer motorist and Director of Royce Limited. Rolls agreed to take Royce's entire production and the cars were to be marketed as Rolls‑Royces from late 1904. Here was the start of a legend where the two names became synonymous with superlative quality in so many spheres and which continues to this day.

Bentley finished 2013 flying high

• 10,120 cars delivered in 2013
• Results confirm Bentley’s position as world’s most sought after luxury car brand
• Flying start for Flying Spur
• Dealer expansion continues, now includes 54 territories

Bentley Motors has firmly reinforced its position as the leading manufacturer of luxury vehicles in the world after announcing a 19% increase in global deliveries in 2013. 10,120 cars were delivered, the highest figure in Bentley’s 95-year history, against 8,510 in 2012.

The Americas region continued its impressive performance and number one market position, while Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe, particularly Germany and the UK, posted substantial gains over the previous year. The global sales network also increased by 11%, to 193 showrooms.

Commenting on the results, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, said:

“2013 marks our fourth consecutive year of double-digit growth, establishing ourselves as the most sought after luxury car brand in the world. We continue to win new customers and we are confident that 2014 will be another successful year for Bentley. People all over the world love the unique combination of luxury and performance of our cars.”

New models were critical to this success. In 2013 Bentley launched the new Flying Spur, the fastest and most powerful Bentley four-door model ever. In the final four months of 2013, with full availability of the new model, Bentley delivered 2,005 Flying Spurs to customers - a phenomenal reception, considering the average yearly sales of 2,700 cars of its predecessor, the Continental Flying Spur, during its seven year tenure.

Deliveries also commenced for Bentley’s open-top performance flagship, the Continental GT Speed Convertible. The Continental family now has four distinct models, with the recently unveiled GT V8 S added to the range. This gives V8 customers a choice for the first time.

According to the latest figures, Bentley’s full year market share performance in the luxury segment rose by three percentage points, taking it to 25%, a market leading position in a segment that decreased by 6%.  

Bentley’s number one market throughout 2013 was the Americas region, finishing the year delivering 28% (3,140 cars) more cars than 2012 (2,457 cars), and 31% of the total deliveries. China remained the second biggest market, with 2,191 cars delivered in total over the year, against the previous year (2,253 cars).

In Europe, deliveries were up by 11%, with 1,480 cars delivered to customers. Bentley’s home market, the UK, also saw impressive gains, delivering 1,381 cars, a 25% increase on 2012 (1,104 cars). Overall, this means that 86% of Bentley’s cars were shipped abroad.

Bentley’s growing presence in the Middle East and Asia Pacific resulted in deliveries hitting a record high in both markets.

Performance was strengthened in the Middle East by Bentley’s flagship model, the Mulsanne, with model sales up by 38%, and total deliveries increasing by 45% (1,185 cars) on 2012 (815 cars).

In Asia Pacific, deliveries rose by 26% (452 cars) on the previous year (358 cars), driven by success of the two-door Continental GT model line. Finally, Japan saw growth of 53%, delivering 291 cars against a total of 190 cars in 2012.

Bentley’s success was driven by increases across all model lines.

USA - December 2013 Sales: Automakers Shatter Records

The end of the year usually brings strong sales figures, and while a good number of automakers saw negative sales numbers for the month, they still managed to break yearly sales records. Some automakers even managed to set new sales records, like Audi who had its best U.S. sales year to date.Looking at the month of December, Honda had its best December sales, while Volkswagen managed to have its second best December since 1972. Other automakers boasted strong months, including Mitsubishi that had its best December in seven years.

We can't look at the month of December and not take a peek at overall sales records. Ford claimed its best year of sales since 2006, Kia had its second best full year of sales in the U.S., and Mazda managed to have its best year of retail-only sales since 1994.Even the luxury automakers outdid themselves. Mercedes-Benz achieved its highest year of sales in the U.S. with 312,534 units sold in 2013. BMW managed to break its U.S. all-time sales record, while both the BMW and Mini brands set new sales records.Take a look at the chart below to see how each automaker finished out 2013.

REPORT HERE

IRELAND - AUDI remains #1 premium brand for 5th year.

Audi is Ireland's most popular premium brand for the fifth consecutive year

Audi Ireland today announced total sales figures for 2013 of 3,687 units ensuring a record Irish market share of 5%. An increase in both sales volume and market share year-on-year cement Audi as Ireland’s number one premium car brand for the fifth year running.

Despite the total car market being down 7% in 2013, Audi’s unrivalled product development and continued investment in its dealer network has ensured sustained growth of 1%.

Christian Gussen, Managing Director of Audi Ireland commented; “2013 was another successful year at Audi Ireland and we are delighted that Audi remains the number one premium car brand of choice for Irish motorists for the fifth year in a row and we sold over one third of all premium cars in Ireland last year.

“Our continued success can be attributed to the strength of our product portfolio. For example look at the strong performance of the sleeker, sportier and more fuel efficient Audi A3, the new saloon and sportback models playing a significant role in our success this year with an increase in sales of over 60% for this model. Great product is supported by unrivalled customer service and flexible finance solutions.

“2014 will be another challenging year for the Irish motor industry but our early signs are positive and we look forward to starting the new 141 registration period with increased momentum behind us.”

MEXICO - Chrysler Group announces December sales across all brands.

• FIAT brand sales, driven by Fiat 500, up 111 percent during December 2013, marking this its best sales year since its launch
• Ram Crew Cab increased its sales volume 29 percent during December 2013
• Jeep® brand sales grew 5 percent, led by Jeep Patriot and Jeep Grand Cherokee; Jeep Cherokee has arrived in dealerships, well accepted
• Dodge brand sales propelled by Dodge Journey, which registered sales of 1,579 units — its best sales month in the last two years; Dodge Challenger registered sales of 96 units, best sales month ever and Dodge Durango sold 196 units, marking this its best sales month in five years

Chrysler de Mexico announced sales of 10,473 units for the month of December 2013, setting a sales record for the year.

“As the year ends, we feel very proud of what we accomplished. We closed 2013 with our best month of sales for the year. This month our sales were driven by Dodge Journey, Jeep Patriot, Ram Crew Cab and Fiat 500," said Bruno Cattori, President & CEO of Chrysler de Mexico. "Our new product launches, such as Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Cherokee and Ram ProMaster, pushed our growth sales for the year. During 2013, we opened the Saltillo Van Assembly Plant and added a production line in the Saltillo North Engine Plant, creating new jobs and demonstrating the confidence the Company has in the products assembled in Mexico. We will continue providing new and revamped products in order to satisfy our customers’ needs.”

Chrysler Brand
Chrysler brand continues to perform well with 520 units sold during December 2013. Chrysler Town & Country sales rose 2 percent. Chrysler 200 sold 112 units during December 2013.

Jeep® Brand
Jeep brand sales grew 5 percent. Jeep Patriot led brand sales with 984 units sold, best sales month of the year. Jeep Grand Cherokee posted sales of 632 units, representing an increase of 15 percent. Jeep Wrangler sales improved 27 percent, all versus December 2012. Jeep Cherokee has had very good acceptance among Mexican customers in its second sales month.

Dodge Brand
Dodge brand continues its streak of successful numbers, posting sales this month of 3,894 units. The Dodge Challenger sold 96 units, best sales month ever, while the Dodge Durango registered a sales increase of 32 percent — its best sales month in 5 years. Dodge Journey sales surged 7 percent versus December 2012, with 1,579 units, marking this its best sales month in two years. Dodge Avenger sales grew 16 percent.

Ram Truck Brand
Ram brand showed sales of 1,371. Ram Crew Cab reported a sales increase of 29 percent, with 503 units sold during December 2013. Ram ProMaster, proudly assembled in Mexico, registered sales of 151 units.

FIAT and Alfa Romeo Brand
FIAT and Alfa Romeo achieved sales of 108 percent, with 1,013 units sold. Fiat 500 reached excellent results with 432 units sold during December 2013. Fiat Ducato sales surged 45 percent. This month, Alfa Romeo Giulietta sales improved 60 percent, marking this its best sales month since its launch.

USA - AUDI reveals sales for December and Year end, all good here !

• With December 2013 coming in as 36th consecutive record sales month, Audi concluded its fourth record year in a row
• December 2013 sales of 17,013 stand as the first time Audi sold more than 15,000 vehicles in any month
• Audi Q5 finishes as the best selling model for Audi in the US in 2013; strong demand seen throughout product lineup in 2013

Audi achieved its fourth-consecutive year of record U.S. demand by recording full-year sales of 158,061, a 13.5% increase over the previous annual record set a year earlier.

In addition, Audi set an all-time monthly sales record in December 2013 with sales of 17,013 new models, a 14.6% improvement over the previous monthly sales record set in December 2012. The most recent month also stands as the first time Audi monthly sales have ever topped 15,000 vehicles. December 2013 was also established the 36th consecutive monthly sales record for Audi in the U.S. market.

“After 36 consecutive record sales months, 2013 was another year to thank America for embracing Audi,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “These record results show the payoff from our longstanding strategy to build the Audi brand through exciting products, committed dealer partners and a sustainable business model.”

December results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with a record month for the Audi Q5 crossover posting a 32.2% gain in December with 4,794 units delivered for the month. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 52.6% to 2,279 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q5 increased 40.8% to a total of 40,355 vehicles sold for the year, while YTD sales for the Audi Q7 increased 45.1% to a total of 15,978 vehicles.

Through December, sales of the Audi A6, A7, A8 and Q7 made up one of every three models the brand sold. That compares to a 19% mix for the most exclusive models just four years ago.

Luxury sedan sales remain strong as the Audi A6 increased 43.3% to 2,686 vehicles sold for the month, while YTD sales increased 18.1% to 22,428 vehicles sold.

There has been high demand for the updated 2014 Audi R8 models, including the Audi R8 V8, Audi R8 V10 and Audi R8 V10 plus. Customers have responded well to the changes in the vehicle’s transmission showing an increase of sales to 37.3% MTD.

December 2013 was also the top sales result for Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles sales with an increase of 21.1% for the month, to a total of 4,022 vehicles. For the full year, Audi CPO sales increased 10.2% to a total of 40,190 vehicles, also an all-time record for Audi of America.

Highlights:

• • Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7) increased 19.2% YTD, representing 33.7% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 46% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain.
• • Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 16.1% for the S4 sedan; 39.7% for the S5/ RS 5; 4.6% for the S6; 26.1% for the S7 and RS 7; 10.2% for the S8; 27% for the TTS / TT RS and TTS Roadster, and 8.6% for the SQ5 crossover. 
• • Sales of Audi A6 increased 43.3% compared to December 2012; YTD sales grew 18.1% compared to previous period.
• • Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 32.2% compared to December 2012; YTD sales grew 40.8% compared to previous period. 
• • Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 52.6% compared to December 2012; YTD sales grew 45.1% compared to previous period.
• • Audi R8 sales up 37.3% compared to December 2012.
• • Sales mix for Audi A6 TDI finished the month at 12.5%, for the Audi A7 TDI at 11%, for the A8 TDI to 12.8%, the Audi Q5 TDI at 16%, and for the Audi Q7 TDI at 28.7%.
• • Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 21.1% to 4,022 vehicles in December; YTD increased 10.2% to 40,190 vehicles sold. 
• • The Audi A3 is being phased out in advance of the all-new A3 sedan arriving in the U.S. market next spring.