New Delhi: General Motors India recorded about 80 per cent growth in the first seven months of 2004 even as the global auto major sold about 20 per cent more cars in July 2004 as compared to the same month last year with its Chevrolet and Opel brands catching the fancy of buyers in India.

Between January and July 2004, the company sold a total of 13048 cars as against 7285 in the same period last year to record a 79.11 per cent growth in YTD sales. These included 5677 Chevy Optras in Entry "D" Luxury sedan segment, 5510 Opel Corsas and 1700 units of the recently launched new-generation premium multi-utility vehicle (MUV) Chevrolet Tavera, branded as the comfortable Family Car.

In July 2004 alone, GM India sold 2311 cars as against 1935 cars in the same month last year registering a growth of 19.43%. These included 733 units of Chevrolet Optra, 900 units of Chevrolet Tavera and 665 units of Opel Corsa.

"The continuing growth in sales of GM in India is a vindication of our decision to make world class products in India with greater localisation. Spurred by this success GM plans to bring some more new and exciting Chevrolet products specifically designed for the Indian market. This would not only let the Indian consumer enjoy more value for money but also benefit the economy," said Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President- Corporate Affairs General Motors India.

GM India is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors Corporation. Besides the Chevrolet Tavera and Optra, GM India manufactures the Opel Corsa, Corsa Sail and Swing at its facility in Halol, Gujarat. GM India also sells the imported Opel Vectra in addition to the Chevrolet Forester.