Chrysler Group Sells Out of Many Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge Models in August
Chrysler Group LLC reported a 5 percent sales increase in August 2009 compared with July 2009 despite low inventory levels on a number of popular nameplates. Dealership traffic continued at a high level during the month of August, in part due to the U.S. government’s Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), more commonly known as “cash for clunkers.”
“Chrysler Group had another strong sales month in August with the majority of Chrysler Group nameplates posting year-over-year or month-over-month sales improvements,” said Peter Fong, President and Chief Executive Officer – Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization, Chrysler Group LLC. “The CARS program gave a boost to the industry in August, and as a result, we’ve increased production by more than 50,000 units, our factories are full-steam ahead building Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles for customers and replenishing dealer inventories.”
Chrysler Group reported total U.S. sales for August of 93,222 units, an increase of 5 percent compared with July and a decrease of 15 percent compared with the same time period in 2008. Retail sales for August were 68,958 units. The company finished the month with 100,238 units in inventory, representing a 28-day supply. Inventory is down 74 percent versus August 2008 when it totaled 380,560 units. Overall industry figures for August are projected to come in at an estimated 14.4 million Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).
“Chrysler Group’s large car, minivan, crossover and truck segments all posted increases in retail sales in August,” said Steven Beahm, Vice President – Sales Operations, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Dodge Avenger, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler PT Cruiser were very popular with consumers looking for high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles.”
Mopar® also enjoyed rising sales in August. Mopar parts and accessories sales increased 5 percent compared with July. New Mopar accessories to help consumers refresh their ride include: New Garmin™ nüvi® navigation systems, new Jeep Wrangler door kits and 2010 Dodge Ram chrome accessories.
