Chevrolet said it has registered a 9.2 per cent sales growth in the Middle East region in 2010 mainly driven by its new product launches - Cruze, Malibu, Traverse and Camaro.

The global automotive brand from GM also posted a double-digit sales growth in Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain and Jordan thus confirming its standing as a leading brand in the Middle East and fastest growing in the world.

Chevrolet’s range of pick-ups and full-size SUVs continued to be a great hit in the region with double-digit sales growth recorded for the Silverado (over 74 per cent), the Tahoe (over 14 per cent), the Avalanche (over 39 per cent) and the Suburban (over 56 per cent), which also celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2010.

Chevrolet’s popularity extends across the Middle East with double-digit sales growth achieved in Iraq, where sales increased by 52 per cent; Qatar by 35 per cent, Jordan by 24 per cent and Bahrain by 13 per cent.

Chevrolet is expected to attract new customers to the brand with four new vehicles set to be launched in 2011 - the new Chevrolet Captiva, Camaro Convertible, Aveo and Cruze Hatchback.

“Chevrolet is winning customers in the Middle East attracted by its compelling designs, quality, durability and great value,” said Fadi Ghosn, chief marketing officer at General Motors Middle East.

“We expect even greater success for Chevrolet in 2011 as we will be introducing four new vehicles that meet the needs and aspirations of the customers in this region. These new vehicles, together with the celebration of the Chevrolet centennial, will increase the consideration and desirability of the brand.”

Chevrolet’s success in the Middle East replicates similar sales growth patterns in other global markets.

Chevrolet sold 4.26 million vehicles globally in 2010, an average of one every 7.4 seconds, and was the only top five vehicle brand to grow its market share in 2010.

In the US, sales of Chevrolet grew by 16 per cent, but Chevrolet recorded the most significant sales growth in key BRIC emerging markets. In Brazil, Chevrolet registered sales growth of 78 per cent, Russia 11 per cent, India 60 per cent and China 63 per cent.-TradeArabia News Service