Opel and Chevrolet importer forecasting 68% rise in 2007 sales

Demand for Opel cars is expected to increase 67 percent year-on-year, up to 19,500 units, while that for Chevrolets should rise 70 percent, up to 13,000 units.

In 2008, General Motors Southeast Europe plans to launch new versions of its Opel Zafira and Agila. The company will also invest €20 million to expand its dealer network in Bucharest and in the cities of Focsani, Deva, Buzau, Ramnicu Valcea, Targu Jiu, Slatina, Turnu Severin, Bistrita, and Constanta, to reach 43 dealers from a current 32.

The company’s main competitors are importers Porsche Romania, Tiriac Holding's auto division, Auto Italia Impex and Trust Motors.

The local car market is expected to rise 20 percent this year, up to 360,000 units, according to the company's estimates.