With so much metal at the auction coming from the sale of a selection of classics from the GM Heritage Center museum, it's interesting that the top eight cars that've been sold so far at the 2009 Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, AZ all came from that collection. Here's the top eight sales — so far.

8.) 1974 Pontiac Trans Am

Lot Number: 433
Details: This rotisserie restored, true, correct, and numbers matching Trans Am 455 Super Duty features photo documented 138560 numbers matching original 455cide Super Duty V8, correct 490132 block casting, correct Y8 block code stamp, Correct 1112205 3 A8 distributor stamping, correct 7044270 SF 2923 carburetor stamp, correct original 74-P 0-1213 automatic transmission, correct 3984828 13 40 2 74 ring gear stamp, correct GY G065 1 axle housing stamp, original Window Sticker, original dealer sales invoice, original odometer statement, copy of original title, original Auto Owner's Maintenance Folio, original owner's instruction and information manuals, original maintenance and safety manual, copy of second owner's title, dealer photos of original vehicle delivery, PHS documentation, and documents from the '73/'74 SD455 Registry. One of only 731 automatic transmission cars produced.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $73,700.00

7.) 2007 Chevrolet Silverado "Dale Earnhardt Jr. Big Red" SEMA Concept

Lot Number: 114
Details: The Dale Earnhardt Jr. "Big Red" Silverado is based on the all-new, 2007 Chevy Silverado crew cab and features custom exterior appointments, an off-road-ready suspension, one-off custom 20" wheels at Dale Jr.'s request, a custom interior and more. This one-of-a-kind Silverado builds on Earnhardt's personal notion of off-road enjoyment, which was previously conveyed in his personal truck - a previous-generation Silverado named "Big Red." Earnhardt collaborated with GM designers on the truck, visiting the GM Design studio in Warren, Mich. to discuss the exterior and interior enhancements, which include all-new front-end sheet metal and rear fenders, as well as a "flying bridge"-type roll bar with integrated off-road driving lamps. The interior is as luxurious as the exterior is off-road-capable, with rich, black leather upholstery and other details. The Dale Earnhardt Jr. "Big Red" Silverado is powered by GM Powertrain's 6.2 Liter Gen IV V8 engine, a high-output, all-aluminum engine with variable valve timing that produces 380hp and 417 lb/ft of torque. It transfers its power to all four wheels via a Hydra-Matic 4-speed electronically controlled transmission. The front and rear axles are equipped with 3.73 gears and Eaton ELocker electronic locking differentials, which help the truck deliver exhilarating performance with tall off-road tires. Stopping power is enhanced with a set of Baer disc brakes, including six-piston calipers and 15" cross-drilled rotors in the front and twin-piston floating calipers with 13" cross-drilled rotors in the rear. It's a concept, and like the others, is not legal for driving on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $88,000.00

6.) 2006 Pontiac GTO RA6 Custom

Lot Number: 738
Details: This specialty '06 GTO was a SEMA Show award winner by Kip Wasenko and the team at the GM Performance Division. It features RA6 body modifications and a Stage 3 750hp Twin Turbo Katech 402 engine with Pedders Extreme suspension and Z06 brake package. Apparently, this car can be driven on public roads — it doesn't say it can't!
Day Sold: Thursday, January 15, 2009
Sale Price*: $93,500.00

5.) 1989 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1

Lot Number: 96
Details: 1 of 83 1989 ZR-1s built and never released to the public. This car was used for media/press events and auto shows. Why'd this one go for a lower price then the other ZR-1 from '89? Probably because this one's painted purple. Also, like the other vehicles sold by GM here at the big B-J, this ZR-1 is not road legal.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $110,000.00

4.) 1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo "Intimidator" Show Car

Lot Number: 83
Details: A NASCAR-inspired show car that offered a glimpse of the 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo styling. Features aggressive styling cues and performance-enhancing technology. We like how it's a "street legal" car being sold on a Scrap Title — because, like most of the others, it's not able to be legally driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $148,500.00

3.) 1990 Chevrolet Corvette "Active" ZR-1 Prototype

Lot Number: 82
Details: This vehicle pioneered the advantages of "Active Suspension" and has GTP Corvette race car technology. Built at the Bowling Green Plant, this vehicle was developed as a prototype for a limited edition run in the 1990 model year. It may not be driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $150,700.00

2.) 1989 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 "Snake Skinner"

Lot Number: 396.1
Details: One of 83 production 1989 ZR-1s built in Bowling Green. This experimental light weight was aimed directly at maintaining Corvette's performance supremacy. With a 475hp LT5 V8 and less weight, this vehicle is GM Performance legend. Sold on a Scrap Title. May not be driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $176,000.0

1.) 1923 Oldsmobile Custom Touring Roadster

Lot Number: 397.2
Details: This Olds concept vehicle is powered by a 4.0 Liter DOHC V8 IMSA GTS-1 race engine with an automatic 4L60E transmission, Halibrand quick change 4.10 rear, 4-wheel independent suspension, rack & pinion power steering and Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes. Also, because, like the rest, it's a GM concept, it's not legal for driving on public roads.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $220,000.00

*Includes 10% Buyer's Premium

[via Barrett-Jackson]

Nissan is recalling their 2005-2009 trucks and SUVs, which many consider to be the best in the business, due to a faulty crash sensor. In states where cold winters and snow occur, salt is used to clear icy roads and has previously only caused some rusty cars. Nissan is saying that the road salt is causing the crash sensor to corrode which in turn is causing the front-impact airbags to fail.

The recall only affects registered 2005-2009 Xterras, Pathfinders and Frontiers in heavy snow regions including Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Nissan won’t leave the rest of its owners out in the cold and will be providing a 10 year warranty for the sensor in other states.

Currently there have been no crashes or injuries linked to the faulty sensor and Nissan will notify owners of the affected models in the next couple of weeks.

Press Release

NISSAN IS RECALLING 242,720 MY 2005-2009 PATHFINDER, FRONTIER AND XTERRA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IN THOSE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY WHICH USE HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT IN THE WINTER, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT CAN ENTER INTO THE FRONT CRASH ZONE SENSOR (CZS) HOUSING. IF THIS OCCURS, THE CZS MAY INTERNALLY RUST RESULTING IN A SIGNAL INTERRUPTION. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE RED AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE TO ALERT THE VEHICLE OPERATOR.

Consequence:
THIS ISSUE COULD RESULT IN THE NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT AIR BAGS IN A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT CZS WITH A REDESIGNED SENSOR. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS IN THE OTHER STATES WILL RECEIVE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE FOR THE SENSOR TO 10 YEARS. THESE OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE WARRANTY EXTENSION BY MAIL AND WILL RECEIVE A STICKER TO PLACE IN THEIR WARRANTY BOOKLET EXPLAINING THE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

[via NHTSA]

A couple of months ago, we heard from Wards that the Imperial was to be the bellwether in Chrysler's dramatic march upmarket. All seemed lost when the company split from the Daimler bunch. But now, according to Autocar, the project is still a go, despite that Chrysler will soon be of the three-headed devil dog Cerberus. Word is the production Imperial will launch in 2010, with production slated for the Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, where the Chrysler 300C and Dodge Magnum and Charger are screwed together. The rear-drive luxo-sedan will give the company the flagship it's been lacking for nigh on three decades, despite a shape that's guaranteed to cause fighting in the streets. No word on price yet, but you can expect they'll want to impress the new bosses with a nice fat margin. – Mike Spinelli

Imperial limo to head new Chrysler breed [Autocar]

Related:
Chrysler Group On the Crack Rock? Imperial On Track for Production [internal]

May 9, 2007 - Tokyo - TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) today announced operating results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007.

On a consolidated basis, net revenues for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007 totaled 23.94 trillion yen, an increase of 13.8 percent compared to the last fiscal year. Operating income increased 19.2 percent to 2.23 trillion yen, and income before income taxes, minority interest and equity in earnings of affiliated companies increased 14.1 percent to 2.38 trillion yen. Net income increased 19.8 percent to 1.64 trillion yen. All of these figures marked record highs.

Positive contributions to operating income totaled 720.0 billion yen, consisting of 330.0 billion yen from marketing efforts, 290.0 billion yen from the positive effects of changes in foreign exchange rates and 100.0 billion yen from cost reduction efforts. Negative factors totaled 359.7 billion yen.

Commenting on the results, TMC President Katsuaki Watanabe said, "For fiscal year 2007, Toyota posted record consolidated results across the board. We believe our continuous efforts to support global growth have steadily contributed to our record net revenues, operating income and net income."

TMC also announced a second-half cash dividend for the six months ended March 31, 2007 of 70 yen, an increase of 15 yen per share over the same period last fiscal year. Total dividend payout for the full year was 120 yen per share, an increase of 30 yen year-on-year. TMC has increased its annual dividend eight consecutive times.

Watanabe added, "As a result, our dividend payout ratio will improve from 21.3% to 23.4%, marking steady progress toward our 30% target".

In fiscal year 2007, Toyota's consolidated vehicle sales for the period reached 8.52 million units, an increase of 550 thousand units compared to the last fiscal year.

In Japan, vehicle sales decreased by 91 thousand units over the same period last year, to 2.27 million units. While sales of certain existing models declined, sales of the redesigned Corolla and new models such as the Auris, Blade and Lexus LS were favorable. Toyota's market share excluding mini-vehicles grew by 1.5 percent compared to the same period last year, to 45.8 percent. Operating income from Japanese operations increased by 381.3 billion yen over the same period last year, to 1.45 trillion yen, mainly due to an increase in production volume.

In North America, vehicle sales reached 2.94 million units, an increase of 386 thousand units, due to strong sales of models redesigned last year such as the RAV4 and Camry and the new models FJ Cruiser and Yaris. Operating income decreased by 46.0 billion yen, to 449.6 billion yen. This is mainly due to temporary expenses such as costs associated with the start up of the Texas plant, as well as the recording of valuation losses on interest rate swaps.

In Europe, led by strong sales of compact models such as the Yaris and Aygo, vehicle sales increased by 201 thousand units, to 1.22 million units. Operating income from European operations increased by 43.4 billion yen, to 137.3 billion yen. The increase in operating income was mainly due to strong sales of core models.

In Asia, sales decreased by 91 thousand units, to 789 thousand units, as a result of weak market conditions mainly in Indonesia and Taiwan. Operating income from Asian operations decreased by 27.9 billion yen, to 117.6 billion yen.

In other regions, including Central and South America, Oceania and Africa, vehicle sales increased to 1.29 million units, an increase of 145 thousand units, due to continuing popularity of the IMV series in Central and South America and the Camry in Oceania. Operating income in these regions increased by 16.3 billion yen, to 83.5 billion yen.

TMC estimates that the consolidated vehicle sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2008 will be 8.89 million units.

TMC also announced its consolidated financial forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2008. Based on an exchange rate of 115 yen to the U.S. dollar and 150 yen to the euro, TMC forecasts consolidated net revenues of 25.00 trillion yen, operating income of 2.25 trillion yen and net income of 1.65 trillion yen.

Watanabe concluded by commenting on the outlook for profitability. "We aim to exceed last year's earnings by increasing sales volume and reducing cost, while investing for future growth."

(Please see attached information for details on financial results. Further information is also available on the Internet at www.toyota.co.jp)

Cautionary Statement with Respect to Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements that reflect Toyota's plans and expectations. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Toyota's actual results, performance, achievements or financial position to be materially different from any future results, performance, achievements or financial position expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include: (i) changes in economic conditions and market demand affecting, and the competitive environment in, the automotive markets in Japan, North America, Europe and other markets in which Toyota operates; (ii) fluctuations in currency exchange rates, particularly with respect to the value of the Japanese yen, the U.S. dollar, the Euro, the Australian dollar and the British pound; (iii) Toyota's ability to realize production efficiencies and to implement capital expenditures at the levels and times planned by management; (iv) changes in the laws, regulations and government policies in the markets in which Toyota operates that affect Toyota's automotive operations, particularly laws, regulations and policies relating to trade, environmental protection, vehicle emissions, vehicle fuel economy and vehicle safety, as well as changes in laws, regulations and government policies that affect Toyota's other operations, including the outcome of future litigation and other legal proceedings; (v) political instability in the markets in which Toyota operates; (vi) Toyota's ability to timely develop and achieve market acceptance of new products; and (vii) fuel shortages or interruptions in transportation systems, labor strikes, work stoppages or other interruptions to, or difficulties in, the employment of labor in the major markets where Toyota purchases materials, components and supplies for the production of its products or where its products are produced, distributed or sold.

A discussion of these and other factors which may affect Toyota's actual results, performance, achievements or financial position is contained in Toyota's annual report on Form 20-F, which is on file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

GM Reports 2006 Financial Results

* Record revenue of $207 billion in 2006
* 2006 adjusted net income of $2.2 billion - improvement of $5.4 billion
* 2006 reported net loss of $2.0 billion - improvement of $8.4 billion
* Positive fourth quarter net income and operating cash flow
* Year-end cash balance of $26.4 billion

DETROIT - General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM) today posted net income for 2006, excluding special items, of $2.2 billion, or $3.88 per share fully diluted, compared with a net loss of $3.2 billion, or $5.67 per share, in 2005, marking a $5.4 billion improvement. Including special items, GM had a net loss of $2.0 billion, or $3.50 per share for 2006, compared with a net loss of $10.4 billion, or $18.42 per share in the year-ago period. GM earned record revenue of $207 billion in 2006, compared with $195 billion in 2005.

"We needed 2006 to be a big year, and it was," GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner said. "Our performance last year reflects the significant progress we've made toward transforming GM into a more competitive, global business focused on long-term, sustainable success. The improvement is a credit to our employees, union partners, dealers and suppliers worldwide. It's also validation that our strategy is working, and faster than many people thought possible.

"But nobody at GM is declaring victory, because we all know there is still a lot more work to do to achieve our goals of steady growth, solid profitability and positive cash flow generation. We're confident that the momentum we generated in 2006 will continue to build through this year and beyond," Wagoner added.

GM's net income in the fourth quarter 2006 was $180 million, or $.32 per diluted share, excluding special items. These results compare to a net loss of $936 million, or $1.66 per share in the year ago period. Including the net favorable effect of all special items, GM's net income was $950 million, or $1.68 per diluted share in the fourth quarter of 2006, compared with a loss of $6.6 billion, or $11.63 per share in the fourth quarter of 2005. GM had revenue of $51.2 billion in the fourth quarter 2006, compared with $51.7 billion in the same period a year ago, with the decline more than accounted for by the exclusion of GMAC revenue starting December 1, 2006 , which is explained in greater detail in the "GMAC" section of the press release.

The reported results for the fourth quarter 2006 include special items totaling $770 million after tax, or $1.36 per diluted share. These are primarily attributable to gains related to GMAC transaction-related items and the sale of the GM desert proving ground property, partially offset by costs related to previously announced GM restructuring items. Additional details on these special items are included in the "Highlights" section of the press release.

GM Automotive Operations

Net income from global automotive operations for 2006 improved by more than $5.7 billion, totaling $422 million on an adjusted basis, excluding special items (reported net loss of $3.2 billion). Adjusted net income for GM's automotive operations in the fourth quarter 2006 was $228 million (reported net income of $194 million), compared with an adjusted loss of $1.2 billion in the year-ago period.

GM sold 9.1 million vehicles worldwide in 2006. For the second consecutive year, unit sales outside of the U.S. surpassed domestic sales with almost 5 million units, or 55 percent of global volume. GM Europe (GME), GM Asia Pacific (GMAP), and GM Latin America, Africa and the Middle East (GM LAAM) all set regional sales records, with GME exceeding 2 million units, GMAP topping 1.25 million units, and LAAM surpassing 1 million units for the first time.

GM North America (GMNA) posted a $5 billion earnings improvement in 2006, with an adjusted net loss of $779 million (reported net loss of $4.6 billion). In the fourth quarter of 2006, GMNA recorded its fourth consecutive quarter of more than $1 billion improvement in adjusted earnings. GMNA had an adjusted net loss of $14 million in the fourth quarter 2006 (reported net income of $50 million), versus an adjusted loss of $1.4 billion in the same quarter 2005. The calendar year improvement was realized despite a 207,000 unit reduction in GMNA production to balance inventory with deliveries, and reflects continued significant reductions in structural costs related to health care, manufacturing and workforce attrition, as well as positive sales mix and the impact of the company's product and value focused sales and marketing strategy.

GM reduced structural costs in North America by $6.8 billion in 2006, exceeding its target of $6 billion, and remains on-track to deliver the previously announced $9 billion of annual structural cost savings in 2007(versus 2005 structural cost levels). GM's progress in globalizing its product development, powertrain and manufacturing operations, combined with aggressive GMNA turnaround actions, are driving these significant structural cost reductions. GM reduced its global automotive structural cost from over 34 percent of revenue in 2005 to 30 percent of revenue in 2006, an impressive first step toward GM's goal of cutting structural cost to 25 percent of revenue by 2010.

"We made very significant progress in 2006 toward our 25 percent structural cost goal," Wagoner said. "At the same time, we continue to invest heavily in future products, technology and growth markets. GM plans to increase its global capital spending from $7.5 billion in 2006, to between $8.5 and $9 billion in 2007 and 2008."

GM's commitment to quality and design leadership was reinforced in 2006 with strong consumer and media reception to GM's newest cars and trucks, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade full-size utilities; GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado full-size pickups; the Saturn Aura midsize sedan; Opel Corsa small car; and the Holden Commodore fullsize sedan. In addition, early public reaction to the Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia midsize crossovers, introduced late in 2006, has been positive.

GME posted its first full year of profitability since 1999 with adjusted earnings of $227 million for 2006 (reported net loss of $225 million). GME had an adjusted loss of $8 million in the fourth quarter 2006 (reported net loss of $119 million), compared to net income of $5 million in the year-ago quarter. GME revenue in the fourth quarter 2006 was $9 billion, up from $8.1 billion in the same quarter 2005. Contributing to GME's improved performance during the year was strong revenue growth due to record volume of over 2 million units, and continued structural cost reductions.

"The actions we've taken in Europe to reduce structural cost and re-energize our product lineup is making a big impact on the business," Wagoner noted. "And our multi-brand approach in Europe is really getting traction. The Opel/Vauxhall brands are strengthening, led by products like the all-new Corsa and segment-leading Meriva and Zafira. And, the Chevrolet brand again achieved record sales, while Saab and Cadillac also demonstrated strong growth. And we're especially pleased with our progress in Russia , where GM sales grew 73 percent in 2006."

GMAP delivered adjusted earnings of $441 million in 2006 (reported net income of $1.2 billion), compared with $557 million in 2005, with the decline totally attributable to the loss of Suzuki equity income in 2006, as a result of the divestiture of most of GM's holdings in Suzuki Motor Corp. For the fourth quarter of 2006, GMAP's adjusted earnings were $122 million (reported net income of $135 million) , consistent with the same quarter 2005 earnings of $124 million. Record 2006 sales of GM Daewoo products contributed to GM's continued strong performance in the region, headlined by sales gains of 32 percent in China and 19 percent in Korea.

"The AP region remains the core of GM's global growth strategy. In 2006, GM advanced its leading position in China , again improving its market share to almost 12 percent. We also announced plans to add a new assembly plant in India to take advantage of opportunities in that important market, and we continue to grow in Korea ," Wagoner said.

GM's LAAM region delivered its best financial performance in 10 years with adjusted earnings of $533 million in 2006 (reported net income of $490 million), an improvement of $381 million over 2005. GMLAAM also recorded adjusted and reported fourth quarter earnings of $128 million, up from adjusted earnings of $63 million in the same quarter of 2005. These improvements were driven by record revenue and volume for the region, and significant gains at GM do Brasil.

"By cost-effectively leveraging GM's products and resources from around the world, GM LAAM has been able to take advantage of growth opportunities throughout the region, achieving milestone sales of over 1 million units and impressive revenue and profit results," Wagoner said.

GMAC

On a standalone basis, GMAC Financial Services reported 2006 net income of $2.1 billion, compared with net income of $2.3 billion in 2005. GMAC's operating earnings for 2006, excluding two significant items, amounted to $2.0 billion, compared to $2.7 billion of operating earnings in 2005.

For the fourth quarter of 2006, GMAC had net income of $1.0 billion, up from $112 million in the fourth quarter of 2005. The 2006 fourth quarter results include a $791 million after-tax benefit related to deferred tax liabilities that GMAC transferred to GM when GMAC converted to a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Conversely, fourth quarter 2005 results included the impact of goodwill impairment charges of $439 million after-tax. Excluding the LLC benefit, GMAC operating earnings for the fourth quarter 2006 were $225 million, compared to $551 million in the year-ago period.

On November 30, 2006, GM closed the previously-announced transaction to sell 51 percent controlling interest in GMAC to an investor consortium led by Cerberus Capital. As a result of the closing of the GMAC transaction, GMAC results through November were fully consolidated in GM's reporting, and December results were reflected on an equity income basis for GM's remaining 49 percent interest.

After adjusting GMAC results for equity income in December, dividends to GM on preferred stock and various transaction-related items, GM reported an adjusted net loss of $284 million associated with GMAC for the fourth quarter 2006, and net income of $1.5 billion for the calendar year. Going forward, GM will record GMAC results on an equity income basis.

Based on GMAC's results, GM will refund approximately $1 billion to GMAC, in the form of a capital contribution, to restore its adjusted tangible equity balance as of November 30, 2006 to the $14.4 billion level that was agreed upon in conjunction with the 51 percent sale of GMAC. The amount of the refund reflects reduced tangible book value at November 30, 2006, principally caused by a deterioration in GMAC's Residential Capital, LLC (ResCap) earnings, changes in GMAC deferred tax balances and the restatement of prior financial results.

For additional details on GMAC 2006 fourth quarter and calendar-year financial results, see the company's earnings release dated March 13, 2007 on the company web site at www.gmacfs.com.

Cash and Liquidity

GM achieved positive adjusted operating cash flow for the fourth quarter 2006 of approximately $300 million, an improvement of $1.4 billion compared to the fourth quarter 2005.

Cash, marketable securities, and readily-available assets of the Voluntary Employees' Beneficiary Association (VEBA) Trust totaled $26.4 billion at December 31, 2006, up from $20.4 billion on September 30, 2006. In addition to the impact of favorable operating cash flow in fourth quarter, this reflects the impact of distributions received from the closing of the sale of the 51 percent interest in GMAC.

Financial Restatements

GM previously disclosed that it had understated its stockholders' equity as of December 31, 2001 and subsequent periods by approximately $500 million related to deferred tax liabilities and taxation of foreign currency translation. GM today confirmed a final adjustment to stockholders' equity as of January 1, 2002 of $245 million.

GM also previously disclosed it would be restating its financial statements for 2002 through the third quarter of 2006 largely due to hedge accounting. The following chart provides a summary of the impact of the restatements on reported net income for the 2002-2006 periods.

These results had no impact on cash flow for any of the restated periods. Details on all of the restatements for the periods 2002 through the third quarter 2006 can be found in the "Highlights" section of this press release.

GM plans to file its annual report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2007. Once filed, it will be available in the "SEC Filings" section of GM's investor website at www.gm.com/company/investor_information/sec/.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit , GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Forward-looking Statements
In this press release and in related comments by General Motors' management, we will use words like "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "initiative," "objective," "plan," "goal," "project," "outlook," "priorities," "target," "intend," "evaluate," "pursue," "seek," "may," "would," "could," "should," "believe," "potential," "continue," "designed," or "impact" to identify forward-looking statements that represent our current judgments about possible future events. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but GM's actual results may differ materially due to a variety of important factors. Among other items, such factors include: the ability of GM to realize production efficiencies, to achieve reductions in costs as a result of the turnaround restructuring and health care cost reductions and to implement capital expenditures at levels and times planned by management; the pace of product introductions; market acceptance of the Corporation's new products; significant changes in the competitive environment and the effect of competition in the Corporation's markets, including on the Corporation's pricing policies; our ability to maintain adequate liquidity and financing sources and an appropriate level of debt; changes in the existing, or the adoption of new, laws, regulations, policies or other activities of governments, agencies and similar organizations where such actions may affect the production, licensing, distribution or sale of our products, the cost thereof or applicable tax rates; costs and risks associated with litigation; the final results of investigations and inquiries by the SEC and other governmental agencies; changes in our accounting principles, or their application or interpretation, and our ability to make estimates and the assumptions underlying the estimates, including the range of estimates for the Delphi pension benefit guarantees, which could result in an impact on earnings; changes in relations with unions and employees/retirees and the legal interpretations of the agreements with those unions with regard to employees/retirees and the successful completion of a collective bargaining agreement; negotiations and bankruptcy court actions with respect to Delphi's obligations to GM, negotiations with respect to GM's obligations under the pension benefit guarantees to Delphi employees, and GM's ability to recover any indemnity claims against Delphi; labor strikes or work stoppages at GM or its key suppliers such as Delphi or financial difficulties at GM's key suppliers such as Delphi; additional credit rating downgrades and the effects thereof; factors affecting GMAC's results of operations and financial condition such as credit ratings, interest rates, the housing market(including the downturn in residential mortgages, particularly in the nonprime sector), adequate access to the capital, changes in the residual value of off-lease vehicles, changes in U.S. government-sponsored mortgage programs or disruptions in the markets in which our mortgage subsidiaries operate, and changes in GMAC's contractual servicing rights; shortages of and price increases for fuel; changes in economic conditions, commodity prices, such as steel and other raw materials, currency exchange rates or political stability in the markets in which we operate; the effects of transactions or alliances entered into by one or more of our competitors; currency exchange rates or political instability in the markets in which we operate; and general economic conditions, in particular stability of consumer confidence. The most recent annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed by GM and GMAC provide information about these factors, which may be revised or supplemented in future reports to the SEC on those forms.

8:59:46 AM: Ok, got my coffee and we're ready to go...waiting...nice hold music...very soothing.

9:02:20 AM: Ok, they're announcing names — BORING!
9:03:49 AM: Ooh, Alan's speaking — he sounds VERY confident!
9:03:56 AM: There's slides? WTF?
9:04:00 AM: Damnit, where are they?
9:05:41 AM: Alan says they recognize the position they're in — and he claims the year's finished as a success.
9:06:23 AM: Here are the slides, by the way. They're in PDF, as an FYI.
9:08:03 AM: Hey, good news — PAG reported profits in the fourth quarter. Sounds like a December to remember!
9:08:38 AM: Don's up to bat now and we're on slide six — riveting.
9:09:23 AM: Don sounds exhausted. Poor Don, he's had a lot of counting to do recently.
9:09:51 AM: Seriously though, the man sounds exhausted. Hell, both he and Alan sound tired.
9:13:46 AM: Don makes me sleepy today. We need to start a drinking game where we drink shots of espresso.
9:16:14 AM: Ok, it's kind of bugging me that everyone forgets the folks reading along have an extra slide at the beginning — so when Don says "slide 14," he really means "slide 15." It's the little things, you know?
9:16:27 AM: Ooh, Don sounds so excited talking about product.
9:16:58 AM: 70% of product refreshed by 2008. How will they do that? Kill more product lines? Cause yeah, then you'll have a 70% refresh.
9:17:08 AM: Is there a little kid or some intern on the other line?
9:20:04 AM: Slide 19, Don!
9:20:43 AM: Yay Ford Europe!
9:20:49 AM: Way to have a good year!
9:22:02 AM: 494,000 sales, $8.8 billion in revenue, $232 million in pre-tax profits. That's up from 472,000 sales, $7.9 billion in revenue, $24 million in pre-tax profits in Ford Europe.
9:23:03 AM: P.A.G. had 4,000 more in sales this year, and made another $600 million in revenue and made over $120 million in pre-tax profits.
9:23:24 AM: Asia-Pacific...huh? Why'd they change the slide layout?
9:23:35 AM: Oh wait, here we go:
9:24:09 AM: Asia Pacific, 3,000 more in sales, $400 million lower in revenue and $96 million less than 2005.
9:27:07 AM: Page 27, Don!
9:27:24 AM: Page 28, Don!
9:30:00 AM: Did Don just say $2,100 per vehicle is pension costs?
9:31:54 AM: Oh, good — advertising costs are remaining the same. That means we get all sorts of more Bold Moves (TM) in 2007!
9:33:16 AM: HOLY SHIT! THEY EXPECT AUTOMOTIVE RESULTS TO BE WORSE IN 2007!!
9:34:47 AM: In big bold letters at the bottom of page 37 (and yes, we just realized it also says "slide 36" at the bottom): MARKET SHARE AND MOST EARNINGS COMPARISONS WILL BE TOUGH FOR THE NEXT THREE QUARTERS
9:36:29 AM: Alan's talking again — he's got four key priorities:
9:37:20 AM:
1.) Restructure the Company; be profitable at lower volume and changed mix
Launch new products
Reduce costs
Eliminate excess capacity
2.) Accelerate product development and reduce manufacturing complexity
Leverage global assets
Develop a global product plan
3.) Secure financing — Accomplished; deploy capital wisely
4.) 'Working Together' (Teamwork, Accountability)
9:40:50 AM: We're taking questions from analysts now
9:41:27 AM: Alan is committed to working with the administration
9:41:35 AM: Alan and George, sitting in a tree
9:41:57 AM: e-t-h-a-n-o-l-i-n-g
9:43:20 AM: Couldn't hear the first two because some telemarketer called, but someone's asking "Alan, what are your thoughts on Jaguar and Volvo?"
9:45:35 AM: Alan just dropped Land Rover into the question — "Fordian" slip perhaps?
9:45:49 AM: Jaguar's making good efforts in cost restructuring?
9:45:50 AM: Really?
9:45:54 AM: $715 million loss?
9:45:56 AM: WTF?
9:46:13 AM: "continue to look at our entire portfolio strategically...blah, blah, blah."
9:46:25 AM: Jonathan from Morgan Stanley
9:46:51 AM: "Was $5.something billion in automotive losses...what do you need to see to put out additional cost-cutting?"
9:48:10 AM: "Profitability by 2009 and on...having said that, operating mode ahead...every quarter every year, identifying...opportunities to improve the plan...and over time we'll be able to do that."
9:49:34 AM: Side note: long, long, long...and boring!
9:50:21 AM: JP Morgan wants to know about the union receiving reductions on health care — is it an attainable goal?
9:51:06 AM: Alan: "We've continued to talk on it with the UAW, and over the years we've made some real progress...the UAW is working to improve our profitability."
9:51:32 AM: Don: "We've had a good constructive dialog with the unions...our goal is to improve competitiveness for Ford Motor Company."
9:52:48 AM: More boringness on Ford Credit.
9:54:01 AM: Don says Ford's flexible cause it's got money. Umm...what if it's all been earmarked?
9:54:21 AM: Credit Suisse: "where are we on the Super Duty launch — are you building?"
9:54:59 AM: Credit Suisse: "how do you expect to see market share trends in 2007 — do you expect it to come back up in later years."
9:55:07 AM: Alan: "Mark's here!"
9:55:10 AM: MOVIE STAR!!!
9:55:21 AM: He was actually at the launch! OMFG! Hawt!
9:55:32 AM: The Mullet is back!
9:55:46 AM: Wait, I just missed what he said, I was too busy having a mulletgasm.
9:56:17 AM: Oh, wait he's now talking about market share loss due to fleet sales dropping.
9:56:26 AM: But they want retail sales to increase.
9:57:56 AM: Did Don just say he wants to keep everyone straight there? When did Bill Ford enter the room?
9:58:20 AM: Wait — those are two WHOLLY UNRELATED questions above. We swear. Scout's honor.
10:00:46 AM: More union questions!
10:01:04 AM: I'm lagging and out of red bull. Well, time to just do vodka shots.
10:01:29 AM: Question: "philosophically, how do you feel about a strike?"
10:02:56 AM: Don: "I've always approached by really focusing on the business....the only way for this to work for all of us...is if we have a growing plan for Ford. If not, all the stakeholders...the only way it can work is if we have profitable growth going forward. Either one of us can destroy Ford Motor Company...what do we really need to do to improve the competitiveness of Ford..."
10:04:04 AM: Follow-up: "It seems the unions need to save face with their members. Is there any way to do that without a strike?"
10:04:30 AM: Alan: "I've been impressed...we've all worked to improve our competitiveness...everybody's been working the competitiveness of Ford."
10:07:05 AM: Q: "...move to common platforms. We've seen this for some time. Does this mean we're on a new trajectory? When will we see results? Will it be a couple of years down the road?"
10:08:48 AM: Alan: "I've been impressed with the initial progress made on this around the globe. A few years ago, the leadership decided one of the competitiv. factors would be to use more of our products and leverage our assets across the globe...I'd say our plan now is to accelerate that trend...we can absolutely design or create a more flexible production system every year going forward." Did somebody mention a "blah, blah, blah"? Oh wait, I just did. Oh, there's more — this is Alan's "move forward."
10:10:15 AM: Alan: "steps forward, steps back" — what is this, a Paula Abdul song?
10:11:26 AM: Yay, media time!
10:12:40 AM: Micki Maynard, NYT: "walk through some numbers here...straight time man capacity of 3.0 million...last year, 3.1 million units in NorAm...if the broader market's expected to drop, and market share's going to go down — how do you expect to hit 3.0 million."
10:12:52 AM: Don: "I don't see those numbers here."
10:13:04 AM: MM: "Will you pay bonuses?"
10:13:27 AM: "We haven't made final decisions but we expect to remain competiive....we'll make those decisions in the next couple of months."
10:14:02 AM: Bryce Hoffman, Detroit News gets the cock-block, goes after the bonuses as well: "How will it affect union negotiations?"
10:14:12 AM: Alan: "Our commitment's to working together."
10:15:33 AM: TK, AP: "Of the $33.9 billion in automotive sector cash, you borrowed $12 billion? How much can you tap into?"
10:15:46 AM: A: "We can tap any of that money when we want."
10:15:57 AM: Don wants to answer Micki's capacity question now.
10:16:24 AM: "That's capacity to sell to all of NorAm, and to be shipped overseas.."
10:17:55 AM: Amy Wilson, Automotive News: question about Alan's management team — "is it exactly where you want it to be?"
10:18:22 AM: Alan: "No plans at this time...Jerry...lots of experience in HR and negotiations."
10:19:24 AM: Alan: "On the Ford leadership team, I'm really, really pleased. Mark clearly has been doing a great job in the Americas..."
10:24:35 AM: John Stoll: "Follow up on bonuses...it's sorta surprising you're thinking about bonuses...is this a shift in mentality on how to compensate, uh, workers? And uh, how will it be perceived, uh, by the UAW?"
10:26:02 AM: Alan: "We are paying our employees...all of our employees...we have to be competitive. At the end of the day, all of our going forward will be determined by our employees. The issue on the leadership and the bonuses...pay is tied to the success of the plan...you want to make sure you're paying people for...what they are achieving. We need the best and motivated team..."
10:26:50 AM: Speak up, Harry Potter!
10:30:06 AM: Alan just wants to remind everyone they've led in trucks for 30 years.
10:30:30 AM: He thinks they can create a strong product lineup. Has he seen the fugly Focus?
10:31:30 AM: Sarah Webster, Freep: "your spend is said to be competitive, but the spend on R&D is increasing at GM and Toyota...should you be upping that spend?"
10:31:38 AM: Alan: "Well, good morning to you, Sarah..."
10:33:22 AM: Alan: "We want to get more investment for vehicle...I'd like to say it again...I've looked through the entire product development plan...I think we've got the right amount of money...but for every car we'll have higher flexibility through a production system that'll be higher volume. I feel very good about the investment we've got right now."
10:34:53 AM: SW: "Can I ask about the bonuses...aren't they already properly compensated?"
10:35:30 AM: Alan:"...you want the total compensation to be competitive...and at the higher levels more of your compensation is at risk...you want them compensated for performance..."
10:36:21 AM: Jeff Mc. @ WSJ: "something, something, something...if you're exiting the rental car industry, wouldn't you be seeing pricing become better?"
10:36:33 AM: Don: "We expect pricing overall to go down..."
10:38:07 AM: Yay, we're almost done! Last question coming up!
10:39:27 AM: John Murphy, Merrill Lynch: "sneak two questions in here..."
10:40:03 AM: Fuck, another financial guy. Damn it — I like the media questions better — they're bigger dicks than the financial folks...
10:40:20 AM: Murphy: "let's talk about the new way, way, way forward plan"
10:40:22 AM: Epic.
10:40:43 AM: Murphy: "Do you need to come up with a new plan after the way forward plan?"
10:40:55 AM: Don: "Cash position, blah, blah, blah..."
10:43:40 AM: Alan: "On your other question, on the plan, and the way going forward...we have a solid plan, that's got the investment going forward, near-term — that's even higher quality...clearly, Mark and the NorAm team led this when they looked at the world with really clear glasses in '04 and '05, I think they also took a really good move, as the economic situation deteriorated, making a really good acceleration...focus the rest of the plans...all that's already reflected in the current plan. We have put out really clear metrics to share with you outsside of Ford and people in here..."
10:44:27 AM: Alan: "We'll update as is necessary. All businesses are looking for ways to...keep improving...their plan. We'll be looking for ways to...do the same...and improve the plan as we go forward."
10:44:32 AM: FIN
10:44:48 AM: Thank god, we're done — I'm going to go and vomit a little.

Related:
Breaking The Bank! Ford Leaks Money Like A Sieve In 2006, Reports Net Loss Of $12.7 Billion [internal]

"Alan Mulally joining Ford as president and CEO in September."

FORD MOTOR COMPANY REPORTS 2006 FOURTH-QUARTER AND FULL-YEAR RESULTS*

* Full-year net loss of $12.7 billion, or $6.79 per share. Fourth-quarter net loss of $5.8 billion, or $3.05 per share.
* Full-year after-tax loss from continuing operations of $2.8 billion, or $1.50 per share, excluding special items. Fourth-quarter after-tax loss from continuing operations of $2.1 billion, or $1.10 per share, excluding special items.**
* Europe and South America were profitable for the full year, both improving on a year-over-year basis. North America, Premier Automotive Group and Asia Pacific and Africa reported full-year losses.
* Financial Services, including Ford Motor Credit, earned a pre-tax full-year profit of more than $1.9 billion.
* Automotive liquidity of $46 billion at year-end 2006 including credit facilities.

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 25, 2007 - Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] today reported a 2006 full-year net loss of $12.7 billion, or $6.79 per share. In 2005, the company reported net income of $1.4 billion, or 77 cents per share.

Excluding special items, Ford's 2006 full-year after-tax loss from continuing operations totaled $2.8 billion, or $1.50 per share. This compares to year-ago earnings from continuing operations of $1.9 billion, or $1.00 per share, excluding special items.**

Special items, which primarily reflected costs associated with restructuring efforts and fixed asset impairments, reduced full-year results on an after-tax basis by a total of $9.9 billion or $5.29 per share. The total pre-tax effect of full-year special items was $11.9 billion.

Full-year sales and revenue for 2006 was $160.1 billion, compared to $176.9 billion a year ago.

* The financial results discussed herein are presented on a preliminary basis; final data will be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2006 (Form 10-K Report).

**See table following "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors" for the nature and amount of these special items and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP.

FULL-YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

Ford Motor Company highlights in 2006 included:

* Alan Mulally joining Ford as president and CEO in September.
* An "accelerated" Way Forward plan to return North America to profitability no later than 2009 that calls for idling and ceasing operations at 16 manufacturing facilities through 2012, including seven vehicle assembly plants. The plan also calls for achieving a cumulative $5 billion in reduced operating costs by 2008, compared to 2005, and for 70 percent of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury products by volume to be new or significantly upgraded by 2008.
* The idling of St. Louis Assembly in March and Atlanta Assembly in October, consistent with the North America restructuring plan.
* An agreement with the UAW to extend a variety of voluntary buyout offers to all U.S. Ford and Automotive Component Holdings, LLC (ACH) hourly employees. Through Dec. 31, 2006, more than 38,000 hourly employees had accepted offers. Many of the offers include an employee's opportunity to rescind acceptance up until the time of separation from the company. In addition, the company realized cost savings from the implementation of its health care agreement with the UAW.
* Efforts to reduce North America salaried-related costs by a third, which will reduce the salaried work force by the equivalent of 14,000 positions. In addition, we implemented cost-saving revisions to salaried benefit plans.
* Agreement in principle to sell three facilities now operated by ACH. Ford intends to sell or close all ACH facilities by the end of 2008.
* Plans to sell Automobile Protection Corporation (APCO), a subsidiary that offers vehicle service contracts to dealers of all makes and models, and all or part of Aston Martin.
* Launching new products that received strong initial feedback, including the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator in North America, the Ford S-MAX, Ford Galaxy and Ford Transit in Europe, the Jaguar XK, Land Rover LR2, Volvo S80 and C30 and Mazda CX9.
* Ford S-MAX being named European Car of the Year 2007 and Ford Transit receiving International Van of the Year 2007. Ford also won the 2006 FIA World Rally Championship Manufacturers' Trophy.
* Record sales in China and India.
* A corporate realignment in December that streamlined the organization and formed a Global Product Development team, to better integrate and leverage global resources across the automotive business units.
* Obtaining $23.5 billion of new liquidity in December, including a convertible debt offering of about $5 billion, a secured term loan of $7 billion and a secured revolving credit facility of $11.5 billion. This resulted in total automotive liquidity of $46 billion at year-end 2006.

"We began aggressive actions in 2006 to restructure our automotive business so we can operate profitably at lower volumes and with a product mix that better reflects consumer demand for smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles," said Alan Mulally, Ford's president and chief executive officer. "We fully recognize our business reality and are dealing with it. We have a plan and we are on track to deliver."

FOURTH QUARTER

In the fourth quarter, the company reported a net loss of $5.8 billion, or $3.05 per share. This compares to a fourth-quarter net loss of $74 million, or 4 cents per share, in 2005. Excluding special items, the fourth-quarter after-tax loss from continuing operations totaled $2.1 billion, or $1.10 per share, compared to a profit of $285 million, or 15 cents per share, a year ago.*

Special items in the quarter included the costs associated with North America restructuring efforts. On an after-tax basis, special items reduced fourth-quarter earnings by a total of $3.7 billion or $1.95 per share. The total pre-tax effect of fourth-quarter special items was $3.8 billion. (See appendix at the end of this press release for a detailed explanation of special items and other charges during the period.)

Total sales and revenue in the fourth quarter were $40.3 billion, compared to $46.3 billion in the year-ago period.

The following discussion of the preliminary pre-tax results of our Automotive sector and Financial Services sector, by segment or business unit, is on a basis that excludes special items. See table following "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors" for the nature and amount of these special items and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP.

AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR

For the full year, Ford's worldwide Automotive sector reported a pre-tax loss of $5.2 billion, compared to a pre-tax loss of $993 million a year ago. The decline primarily reflected unfavorable volume and mix, unfavorable net pricing and currency exchange, partially offset by favorable cost performance and higher interest income.

For the fourth quarter, Ford's worldwide Automotive sector reported a pre-tax loss of $2.5 billion, compared to a pre-tax loss of $109 million a year earlier. The decline primarily reflected adverse volume and mix and higher incentives in North America.

Worldwide Automotive revenue for 2006 was $143.3 billion, compared to $153.5 billion a year ago. Total fourth-quarter Automotive revenue was $36 billion, a decrease from $40.7 billion a year ago.

*See table following "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors" for the nature and amount of these special items and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP.

Total company vehicle wholesales in 2006 were 6,597,000, a decrease from 6,767,000 in 2005. Fourth-quarter vehicle wholesales totaled 1,568,000, compared to 1,737,000 units a year ago.

Automotive cash at Dec. 31, 2006, totaled $33.9 billion of cash, net marketable securities, loaned securities and short-term Voluntary Employee Benefits Association (VEBA) assets.

North America : For 2006, Ford's North America Automotive operations reported a pre-tax loss of $6.1 billion, compared to a loss of $1.5 billion in 2005. The increased losses primarily reflected unfavorable net pricing, largely reflecting higher incentive spending, unfavorable mix, lower market share and a reduction of dealer stocks, partially offset by cost reductions. For the year, North America's sales totaled $69.4 billion, compared to $80.6 billion a year ago.

For the fourth quarter, North America Automotive operations reported a pre-tax loss of more than $2.8 billion, compared to a pre-tax loss of $217 million in 2005. The increased losses primarily reflected unfavorable net pricing, largely reflecting higher incentive spending, a reduction in dealer stocks, unfavorable mix, and lower market share, partially offset by cost reductions. Fourth-quarter sales were $15.1 billion, compared to $21.4 billion in 2005.

South America : Ford's South America Automotive operations reported a full-year pre-tax profit of $551 million, a $152 million increase from 2005. The improvement primarily reflected higher volumes, partially offset by unfavorable currency exchange. Full-year sales improved to $5.7 billion from $4.4 billion in 2005.

In the fourth quarter, Ford's South America Automotive operations posted a pre-tax profit of $114 million, compared to a pre-tax profit of $131 million in 2005. The change was more than explained by unfavorable currency exchange. Fourth-quarter sales were $1.7 billion, an improvement from $1.3 billion a year ago.

Ford Europe: Ford Europe posted a full-year pre-tax profit of $469 million, an improvement of $396 million from a year ago. Sales for the year totaled $30.4 billion, compared to $29.9 billion in 2005.

For the fourth quarter, Ford Europe reported a pre-tax profit of $232 million, an improvement from $24 million a year ago. This improvement primarily reflected higher volume. Fourth-quarter sales totaled $8.8 billion, an increase of $900 million compared to a year ago.

Premier Automotive Group (PAG): For 2006, PAG reported a full-year pre-tax loss of $327 million, compared to a pre-tax loss of $89 million a year ago. The decline is more than explained by prior model warranty accrual adjustments at Jaguar and Land Rover and unfavorable currency exchange rates, partially offset by other cost reductions and favorable mix and pricing. Full-year sales for the group totaled $30 billion, compared to $30.3 billion in 2005.

In the fourth quarter, PAG reported a pre-tax profit of $191 million, an improvement of $129 million compared to the year-ago period. This improvement primarily reflected favorable volume and mix at Volvo due to the introduction of new products, and favorable pricing at Jaguar and Land Rover, partially offset by the effect of a weaker U.S. dollar against key European currencies. Fourth-quarter sales totaled $8.6 billion, compared to $8 billion a year ago.

Asia Pacific and Africa: For full-year 2006, Asia Pacific and Africa reported a pre-tax loss of $185 million, compared to a pre-tax profit of $61 million a year ago. The results primarily reflected adverse volume and mix and exchange rates, partially offset by cost reductions. Full-year sales totaled $6.5 billion, a decline from $7.7 billion in 2005.

For the fourth quarter, Asia Pacific and Africa reported a pre-tax loss of $135 million, compared to a pre-tax loss of $39 million in the year-ago period. The increased losses primarily reflected adverse volume and mix and exchange rates, partially offset by cost reductions. Fourth-quarter sales totaled $1.4 billion, compared to $1.8 billion in 2005.

Mazda: For full-year 2006, Ford's share of the pre-tax profit of Mazda and associated operations was $168 million, compared to $255 million a year ago. The decline was more than explained by the non-recurrence of gains on Mazda convertible bonds in 2005.

For the fourth quarter, Ford's share of the pre-tax profit of Mazda and associated operations was $51 million, compared to $32 million a year ago, which primarily reflected favorable operating performance.

Other Automotive: Full-year 2006 results included a pre-tax profit of $247 million, compared to a loss of $207 million a year ago, reflecting primarily higher interest income. Fourth-quarter results included a pre-tax loss of $59 million, an improvement of $43 million that primarily reflected higher interest income.

FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR

For the full year, the Financial Services sector earned a pre-tax profit of more than $1.9 billion, compared to $3.5 billion the prior year. For the fourth quarter, the Financial Services sector earned a pre-tax profit of $416 million, compared to $626 million the prior year.

Ford Motor Credit Company: Ford Motor Credit Company reported net income of $1.3 billion in 2006, down $621 million from earnings of $1.9 billion a year earlier. On a pre-tax basis from continuing operations, Ford Motor Credit earned more than $1.9 billion in 2006, down $970 million from 2005. The decrease in full-year earnings primarily reflected higher borrowing costs, higher depreciation expense and the impact of lower average receivable levels. These were partially offset by market valuations primarily related to non-designated derivatives and reduced operating costs.

In the fourth quarter of 2006, Ford Motor Credit's net income was $279 million, down $26 million from a year earlier. On a pre-tax basis, Ford Motor Credit earned $406 million in the fourth quarter, compared to $482 million in the previous year. The decrease primarily reflected higher borrowing costs and higher depreciation expense, partially offset by market valuations primarily related to non-designated derivatives.

CASH AND LIQUIDITY

The company ended the year with total Automotive cash, net marketable securities, loaned securities and short-term Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) assets at Dec. 31, 2006 of $33.9 billion, an increase from $23.6 billion at the end of the previous quarter. Total Automotive liquidity at Dec. 31, 2006 was $46 billion including credit facilities. The company's Automotive operating-related cash flow was $1.8 billion negative for the fourth quarter.

"We're pleased the financial markets expressed confidence in our turnaround plan by providing us with the additional liquidity we will need to fund our operations as we restructure to deliver sustainable profitability," said Mulally. "We will deploy this capital wisely to ensure we earn returns for our shareholders and deliver products our customers prefer."

2007 OUTLOOK

The company shared its financial outlook for 2007 and, consistent with previous guidance, expects market share and most earnings comparisons to remain challenging for the next two to three quarters.

More specifically:

* U.S. market share is expected to be down through the third quarter of 2007, primarily due to lower fleet sales.
* Production is expected to be down through the first half of 2007, but is expected to increase on a year-over-year basis in the second half of the year.
* Year-over-year third quarter comparisons will be impacted by the non-recurrence of tax-related interest income in 2006.
* Essentially no tax offsets to losses will be recognized - negatively impacting the first nine months of comparisons.
* The company's structural cost reductions will continue to grow during the year as personnel are separated, plants are idled and capacity is reduced.
* As previously stated, from 2007 through 2009 cumulative Automotive operating-related cash outflows will be about $10 billion, and cumulative restructuring expenditures will be about $7 billion. The company expects more than half of this $17 billion outflow will occur in 2007. These outflows also reflect plans to invest in new products at levels comparable to previous years, or about $7 billion annually.
* Special charges in 2007 are expected to be significantly lower than in 2006.

"While challenges lie ahead for us in 2007, we're focused on making continuous improvements to our plan, so we can capitalize on opportunities to create and sell more products and save more costs," Mulally said. "Our priorities, combined with our sense of urgency, will continue to transform Ford Motor Company."

Also shared were planning assumptions regarding the industry, operating metrics and profit outlook by business unit.
- # # # -

Safe Harbor/Risk Factors

Statements included herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:

* Continued decline in market share;
* Continued or increased price competition resulting from industry overcapacity, currency fluctuations or other factors;
* A market shift (or an increase in or acceleration of market shift) away from sales of trucks or sport utility vehicles, or from sales of other more profitable vehicles in the United States;
* A significant decline in industry sales, particularly in the United States or Europe, resulting from slowing economic growth, geo-political events (e.g., an escalation or expansion of armed conflict in or beyond the Middle East) or other factors;
* Lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products;
* Continued or increased high prices for or reduced availability of fuel;
* Currency or commodity price fluctuations;
* Adverse effects from the bankruptcy or insolvency of, change in ownership or control of, or alliances entered into by a major competitor;
* Economic distress of suppliers that has in the past and may in the future require us to provide financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials;
* Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of supplies;
* Single-source supply of components or materials;
* Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business;
* Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates, investment returns, and health care cost trends);
* The discovery of defects in vehicles resulting in delays in new model launches, recall campaigns or increased warranty costs;
* Increased safety, emissions, fuel economy or other (e.g., pension funding) regulation resulting in higher costs, cash expenditures, and/or sales restrictions;

* Unusual or significant litigation or governmental investigations arising out of alleged defects in our products or otherwise;
* A change in our requirements for parts or materials where we have entered into long-term supply arrangements that commit us to purchase minimum or fixed quantities of certain parts or materials, or to pay a minimum amount to the seller ("take-or-pay contracts");
* Inability to access debt or securitization markets around the world at competitive rates or in sufficient amounts due to additional credit rating downgrades, unfavorable capital market conditions, insufficient collateral, greater-than-expected negative operating-related cash flow or otherwise;
* Higher-than-expected credit losses;
* Increased competition from banks or other financial institutions seeking to increase their share of financing Ford vehicles;
* Changes in interest rates;
* Collection and servicing problems related to finance receivables and net investment in operating leases;
* Lower-than-anticipated residual values or higher-than-expected return volumes for leased vehicles;
* New or increased credit, consumer or data protection or other regulations resulting in higher costs and/or additional financing restrictions; and
* Inability to implement the Way Forward plan.

We cannot be certain that any expectation, forecast or assumption made by management in preparing these forward-looking statements will prove accurate, or that any projection will be realized. It is to be expected that there may be differences between projected and actual results. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of their initial issuance, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Related:
Breaking And Falling! Ford December Sales Down 13% [internal]

We see a lot of press releases around here saying Company X's sales are up or down 3% this past year. But rarely do we read about double digit jumps. And even when we do, they are not this high. ASMC (American Suzuki Motors Corporation) just announced that they sold 23% more rides in 2006 than they did in 2005. In fact, they cracked the 100,000 unit barrier for the first time in their 21-year history. How'd they do it? Lots of people got Forenza's as X-mas gifts, sadly apparently. Also their "100,000-mile, seven-year, fully-transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty" couldn't have hurt. Most importantly, we just stepped out of their hoony new SX4 and were quite impressed. We're currently chasing down rumors that a WRC turbo version is coming in 2008. – Jonny Lieberman

2006 American Suzuki Automobile Annual Sales At An All-time High [Suzuki Media]

Related:
Sweep the Leg! Suzuki Planning a WRC Car for 2008 Season [Internal]

First, the news. VAG sold 5.73 million vehicles last year, solidifying its position as the world's number four automaker. Second, a bit of analysis. A guy named Erich Merkle is claiming that VeeDub's sales were temporarily boosted this year because of new model drops like the Jetta and Passat. He says, "I don't know if it is really sustainable." Jalopnik says, "The Jetta is unbuttered white toast on wheels, but that R36 Passat is indeed the hotness." Most remarkable though, once puny Audi managed to sell 950,000 vehicles last year, which is a truly staggering number for (yet another) German luxury make. That is until you realize that a lot of those sales were crap 1.9L diesel 3-door A3s, which are nothing more than Golfs. We mean Rabbits. We mean Porsche's scheme to spin Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini and Bugatti off into their own uber-luxo group isn't such an indefensible, PAG-like idea. We mean congratulations guys! Way to be precise and cast a wide-ass net. – Jonny Lieberman

Volkswagen 2006 sales hit record 5.73 million [Automotive News Europe]

Related:
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Chrysler Group December 2006 U.S. Sales Rise 1 Percent, Carried by 10 New Product Introductions in 2006

* Jeep Wrangler sales rise 61 percent, a new December sales record
* Jeep Compass sales increase 36 percent; the highest sales total since introduction
* Dodge Ram Pickup sales increase 6 percent
* Dodge brand sales rise 5 percent on the strength of Nitro, Caliber and Charger sales
* Dodge Nitro powers to a 36 percent increase over November 2006 sales

Auburn Hills, Mich., Jan 3, 2007 -

On the strength and momentum provided by the 10 product introductions in 2006, Chrysler Group reported that unadjusted sales in December 2006 rose 1 percent to 190,415 units (4 percent adjusted), compared to December 2005 sales of 189,449 units. For the entire year, Chrysler Group sales totaled 2,142,505 units, a decrease of 7 percent over 2005. All figures are reported as unadjusted.

"The 10 new products the company introduced in 2006 generated customer and media praise and laid the foundation for strong sales in 2007," said Steven Landry, Vice President, Sales and Field Operations - Chrysler Group. "We've got an aggressive retail sales plan for 2007 that is expected to drive showroom traffic and provide our dealers the best opportunity to sell vehicles."

The all-new, iconic Jeep Wrangler continues to solidify its segment dominance in the marketplace and deepen its loyalty with customers. Sales of the Jeep Wrangler rose 61 percent to 8,623 units in December. December 2005 sales totaled 5,363 units.

Sales of the all-new Jeep Compass rose 36 percent month-over-month, posting sales of 5,066 units in December 2006. November 2006 sales were 3,723 units.

For the Dodge brand, the Dodge Ram pickup continues to lead the way for the brand, with sales rising 6 percent to 32,875 units. December 2005 year sales were 30,978 units. Sales for the Dodge brand totaled 88,489 units, an increase of 5 percent over December 2005 sales of 84,023 units.

Sales of the Dodge Nitro, the newest SUV for the Dodge brand, and the first mid-sized SUV continues to gain momentum, totaling 7,491 units in December 2006, or an increase of 36 percent over November 2006 sales of 5,489 units.

Sales of the first SUV for the Chrysler brand, the all-new Chrysler Aspen, totaled 3,033 units, an increase of 28 percent over November 2006 sales of 2,365 units. Sales of the Chrysler Aspen continue to exceed expectations as the vehicle continues arriving at dealerships and customers respond to its unique looks and features.

Chrysler Group finished the month with 538,438 units of dealer inventory, or a 74-day supply. That figure is 58,568 units and 11-days fewer than December 2005 and in-line with earlier guidance of projected year-end inventory levels.

On Thursday, January 4, 2007, Chrysler Group President and CEO, Tom LaSorda will host a teleconference to deliver worldwide sales results for the Chrysler Group and its global growth initiatives. Details about the teleconference are available on the Chrysler Group media web site.

Related:
Breaking! Will DaimlerChrysler Spin Off Mercedes Group After October Sales Drop? [internal]

Toyota Reports 2006 and December Sales 01/03/2007 Torrance, CA

January 3, 2007 - Torrance, CA - With eleven consecutive years of record-breaking sales, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported total best-ever year-end sales of 2,542,524 vehicles, up 12.9 percent over 2005.

"2006 was a respectable year for the industry if you consider the strain of erratic fuel prices and a housing bubble on an industry weaning itself from incentives," said TMS Executive Vice President Jim Lentz.

Camry became the best-selling car in America for the fifth consecutive year and the ninth time in the past decade. Lexus retained its crown as the best-selling luxury brand in America for the seventh consecutive year, selling a total of 322,434 units in 2006, up 6.8 percent over 2005. With overall sales of 173,034, Scion was a significant contributor to the record sales year.

TMS reported best-ever overall sales month results of 228,322, an increase of 16.6 percent over the same period last year.

Toyota Division
Toyota Division recorded best-ever year-end sales of 2,220,090 vehicles, up 13.8 percent. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever year-end sales of 1,275,119, up 12.4 percent over last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted year-end sales of 448,445, an increase of 4.2 percent. Corolla posted year-end sales of 387,388, an increase of 13.9 percent. The all-new Yaris subcompact, which went on sale in March, posted year-end sales totaling 70,308. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan posted best-ever December sales of 9,291, an increase of 6.9 percent over the year-ago month. Year-end Prius sales reached 106,971 units.

Toyota Division recorded all-time best-ever year-end light truck sales of 944,971, an increase of 15.7 percent. Toyota Division light trucks also reported all-time best-ever December sales of 88,370, up 15.9 percent over the same period last year. Light truck sales were led by Sienna with December sales of 16,090, up 10.5 percent over the same period last year. The RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) reported year-end sales of 152,047, up 116.3 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which went on sale in March, reported year-end sales of 56,225 units. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 2,354 in December. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined December sales of 11,700, up 7.4 percent over the same period last year.

Contributing to the light-truck sales record was the Tacoma pickup truck with December sales of 15,857, up 7.3 percent. Year-end Tacoma sales were 178,351, up 6 percent over 2005.

Scion reported December sales of 10,326 units. The Scion xB urban utility vehicle recorded December sales of 3,330 units with year-end sales totaling 61,306, an increase of 13.8 percent over 2005. The tC sports coupe reported December sales of 4,996 units with year-end sales reaching 79,125 units, an increase of 6.7 percent over 2005.

Lexus Division
Lexus reported best-ever total year-end sales of 322,434, up 6.8 percent over last year, and all-time best-ever overall sales month of 37,235 units, up 9.9 percent over the year-ago month. It was the second consecutive year Lexus posted sales above 300,000 units.

Sales of Lexus passenger cars achieved best-ever year-end results of 183,037 units, an increase of 21.4 percent. Lexus passenger car sales reported best-ever overall sales month results of 20,913 units, an increase of 21.6 percent over the year-ago month. For the month, passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with best-ever December sales of 8,736 units, up 34 percent. The ES 350 luxury sedan reported best-ever year-end sales of 75,987 units, up 12.8 percent. The IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans recorded combined best-ever December sales of 5,538 units and combined best-ever year-end sales of 54,267 units, an increase of 244.8 percent. The all-new LS 460 premium luxury sedan reported December sales of 3,865, an increase of 73 percent, and year-end sales of 19,546 units.

Lexus Division light trucks reported December sales of 16,322 units and year-end sales of 139,397 units. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined best-ever December sales of 12,779 units and year-end sales of 108,348 units. The RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV reported sales of 1,981 units for the month.

TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 191,742 units. In December, hybrids sales posted 17,883 units.

There were 306 selling days in 2006, as compared to 307 selling days in 2005. There were 26 selling days this month, as compared to 27 selling days last December.

Related:
Toyota Wants To Take It In The Ear Just Like US Automakers; Toyota-Zilla Releases 2007 Global Sales Projection, Lays Waste To GM [internal]

FOR RELEASE: 2007-01-03

GM Reports 341,327 Deliveries in December

December Exceeded Expectations, Led By Strong Full-Size Truck and Utility Sales
2006 Turnaround Plan Retail Sales Objective Achieved
Residual Values and Transaction Prices Up
Incentive Discipline Continues - Annual Incentive Spend Down $700 Per Vehicle

DETROIT - GM dealers in the United States delivered 341,327 vehicles in December, an increase of 10 percent (43,771) compared with November, but a reduction of 9.6 percent on a sales-day adjusted basis compared with a strong year-ago December. GM's total annual U.S. sales of 4.1 million vehicles in 2006 were down 9 percent compared with last year's 4.5 million, due to planned reductions in daily rental and other marginally-profitable sales.

"December was a very solid sales month for GM, exceeding our expectations, especially in full-size trucks and SUVs," said Mark LaNeve, vice president, GM North American Sales, Service and Marketing. "In 2006, despite challenging conditions, we stuck to the game plan and achieved our stated goals in support of Rick Wagoner's turnaround plan for North America. Specifically, we exceeded 3 million retail sales and stabilized market share, improved residual values and transaction prices, lowered daily rental sales, and we accomplished all of this while being the only major manufacturer to substantially lower incentive spending (down $700). For 2007, we'll continue our plans to stabilize retail volume, improve our mix, reduce sales to the daily rental market, exercise strategic and tactical incentive programs and strengthen average transaction prices. We will continue to provide customers with the best coverage in the industry, including our 5 year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty with roadside assistance and courtesy transportation."

"As we move to the next phase of the turnaround plan, we plan to win by offering our customers the best products with industry-leading value and dealer service," LaNeve added. "So we are optimistic as we introduce exceptional new vehicles - such as the GMC Acadia and Sierra, Saturn Aura and Outlook, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Silverado and the all-new Cadillac CTS."

December sales were up 10 percent compared with November, driven by a surge in full-size trucks that offer outstanding fuel economy and value. Highlights include:

* Best sales month of the year for Cadillac (22,715 vehicles) with a 65 percent increase in truck sales compared with December 2005
* Saturn total December sales up 42 percent
* Saab total and retail sales were up 33 percent
* Saturn and Saab saw car sales increases, and total GM car sales in December were up 2 percent on a sales-day adjusted basis.

For calendar year 2006, GM noted several significant achievements that point to strong consumer acceptance of its new products:

* Including the GMC Sierra, GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado, GM sold more than a million pickup trucks in 2006. GM moved the much-anticipated launch of the all-new full size 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks ahead 13 weeks.
* Sales of the Chevrolet Equinox and HHR, Pontiac Torrent and Saturn VUE drove GM's small utility and crossover sales up 27 percent in 2006, with 346,952 total deliveries.
* HUMMER had a record sales year with 71,524 deliveries, up 26 percent. H3 sales were up 63 percent, to 54,052 deliveries, compared with 2005.
* Saturn sales for 2006 totaled a record 226,375 vehicles, a 6 percent increase on a sales-day adjusted basis compared with 2005. The Aura, Sky and VUE led this improvement. The new Saturn Outlook crossover is being launched now.
* Pontiac G6 had a 26 percent sales increase in 2006, compared with 2005. Chevrolet Impala sales were up 18 percent, with 289,868 vehicles sold. Chevrolet HHR sold 101,298 vehicles and Buick Lucerne sold 96,515 vehicles in 2006, each building on their launch momentum.

As GM executes the North America turnaround plan, much media attention has focused on the sales races between GM and its competitors. "We are obviously competing in a fiercely contested global marketplace," LaNeve said. "We're optimistic that our newest generation of products will continue to drive revenue growth and brand image."

Certified Used Vehicles

December 2006 sales for all certified GM brands, including GM Certified Used Vehicles, Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, were 41,800 units, down nearly 6 percent from last December.

GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified brand, posted December sales of 35,774 units, down 8 percent. Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles posted strong December sales of 3,948 units, up 18 percent. Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 1,341 units in December, down nearly 18 percent. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 607 units, up 9 percent, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 130 units.

Total 2006 sales for all certified GM brands were 520,189 units, down 2 percent from last year's total. Annual sales for GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling manufacturer-certified brand, were 449,461 units, down 1 percent from its category record sales results in 2005, while Chevrolet again finished the year as the industry's top-selling single-make certified used vehicle brand.

Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned finished 2006 with sales of 42,143 units, up 9 percent over the previous year. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 8,330 units in 2006, down nearly 4 percent, while Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 19,244 units, down 35 percent. HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 1,011 units in its first year of operation.

"Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles posted another strong month, with December sales of 3,948 units, up 18 percent from last December, and total annual 2006 sales up 9 percent from 2005," said LaNeve. "GM Certified Used Vehicles finished 2006 as the industry's top-selling certified brand for the fifth consecutive year, while Chevrolet ranked as the top-selling single-line make certified used vehicle brand. Certified GM brands, including GM Certified Used Vehicles, Cadillac, Saturn, Saab and HUMMER Pre-Owned Vehicles, again led all manufacturers with total 2006 sales of 520,189 units."

GM North America Reports December and 2006 Fourth-Quarter Production, 2007 First-Quarter Production Forecast is Revised at 1.120 Million Vehicles

In December, GM North America produced 319,000 vehicles (125,000 cars and 194,000 trucks). This is down 42,000 vehicles or 12 percent compared to December 2005 when the region produced 361,000 vehicles (139,000 cars and 222,000 trucks). (Production totals include joint venture production of 16,000 vehicles in December 2006 and 24,000 vehicles in December 2005.)

Also, GM North America built 1.107 million vehicles (447,000 cars and 660,000 trucks) in the fourth quarter of 2006. This is down 174,000 vehicles or 14 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2005 when the region produced 1.281 million vehicles (483,000 cars and 798,000 trucks). Additionally, the region's 2007 first-quarter production forecast is revised at 1.120 million vehicles (455,000 cars and 665,000 trucks), down 20,000 vehicles from last month's guidance. The majority of the production decrease is attributed to GM's ongoing efforts to reduce low-margin daily rental fleet sales. The remainder of the cuts is attributed to shifting production to the company's new full-size pickups and the ongoing management of inventories.

GM also announced 2006 revised fourth-quarter and 2007 first-quarter production forecasts for its international regions.

GM Europe - The region's 2006 fourth-quarter production forecast is revised at 443,000 vehicles. This is down 2,000 vehicles compared to last month's guidance. In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region built 443,000 vehicles. The region's 2007 first-quarter production forecast remains unchanged at 508,000 vehicles. In the first quarter of 2006 the region built 494,000 vehicles.

GM Asia Pacific - GM Asia Pacific's 2006 fourth-quarter production forecast is revised at 507,000 vehicles, up 3,000 vehicles from last month's guidance. In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region built 420,000 vehicles. The region's 2007 first-quarter production forecast is revised at 531,000 vehicles, down 8,000 vehicles from last month's guidance. In the first quarter of 2006 the region built 472,000 vehicles.

GM Latin America, Africa and the Middle East - The region's 2006 fourth-quarter production estimate is revised at 216,000 vehicles, up 1,000 vehicles from last month's guidance. In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region built 188,000 vehicles. The region's 2007 first-quarter production forecast remains unchanged at 214,000 vehicles. In the first quarter of 2006 the region built 194,000 vehicles.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 75 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 318,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2005, 9.17 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Note: GM sales and production results are available on GM Media OnLine at http://media.gm.com by clicking on News, then Sales/Production. In this press release and related comments by General Motors management, we use words like "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "objective," "plan," "goal" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, representing our current judgment about possible future events. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but actual results may differ materially due to a variety of important factors. Among other items, such factors might include: the pace of introductions and market acceptance of new products; the effect of competition on our markets and significant changes in the competitive environment; price increases or shortages of fuel; and changes in laws, regulations or tax rates. GM's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly report on Form 10-Q provide information about these factors, which may be revised or supplemented in future reports to the SEC on Form 10-Q or 8-K.

# # #

Related:
Toyota-Zilla Releases 2007 Global Sales Projection, Lays Waste To GM; Breaking! GM Releases Sales Without A Release, Sales Up 6% [internal]

FORD MOTOR COMPANY REPORTS DECEMBER AND FULL YEAR 2006 U.S. SALES; FULL YEAR CAR SALES ARE HIGHER FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW

* Ford's December sales totaled 233,621, down 13 percent compared with a year ago.
* Full year sales totaled 2.9 million, down 8 percent.
* Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln MKZ lift full year car sales 5 percent - first back-to-back increase since 1993-1994.
* Full year truck sales decline 14 percent.
* All-new Expedition and Navigator (up 12 percent each) close 2006 with higher sales each month in the fourth quarter.
* Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers debut in December.
* Land Rover sets full year sales record.
* Ford end of year inventories totaled 590,000 units - 143,000 less than a year ago. Less than 10 percent are 2006 models.

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 3 - Ford Motor Company's dealers delivered 233,621 new vehicles to U.S. customers in December, down 13 percent compared with a year ago. Lower F-Series sales (down 21 percent compared with last December's near-record month) and lower sales for the discontinued Taurus and Freestar minivan more than accounted for the decline.

Full year sales totaled 2.9 million, down 8 percent compared with full year 2005. Car sales were 5 percent higher than a year ago. It was the second year in a row of higher car sales and the first back-to-back increase since 1993-1994. Ford's new mid-size sedans were the major factors behind the increase as combined sales for the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln MKZ totaled 211,469. Awareness and demand for these award winning products continues to grow. In December, Fusion sales were up 67 percent, Milan sales were up 36 percent, and MKZ sales were up 78 percent. MKZ sales of 3,795 were the highest for any month.

Full year truck sales were down 14 percent as higher gasoline prices and long-term demographic trends drove SUV sales lower and a soft housing industry weighed on full-size truck sales. Ford believes these factors will continue to weigh on these segments in 2007. New products should help mitigate these factors. The company's new full-size SUVs, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator, closed 2006 by posting higher sales each month in the fourth quarter. The company will soon introduce a new Super Duty F-Series pickup truck. This model accounts for about 40 percent of total F-Series sales.

Conversely, passenger car sales and crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) should continue to benefit from demographic trends (notably the aging of the baby boomer generation) and higher gasoline prices. In December, the company expanded its CUV line with the introduction of the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. In addition, the company will introduce a redesigned Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner early this year. Escape has been the best-selling CUV since it was introduced in late 2000.

Land Rover was the company's only brand to post higher sales in 2006. Land Rover's full year sales totaled 47,774 - a new calendar year sales record. Although Lincoln's overall sales were down 2 percent, sales to individual retail customers rose 4 percent.

U.S. Inventories Lower

At the end of December, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury inventories were es timated at 590,000 units. This level is 143,000 units lower than a year ago. The company es timates less than 10 percent of the total inventory is 2006 models.

Related:
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MEDIA ADVISORY

Topic: Year-end conference call with an executive of Toyota
Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Date: Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Time: Noon, Pacific Time
Dial In #: 1.888.XXX.XXXX (from US only)
Passcode: Toyota Sales

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Toyota Reports November Sales 12/01/2006 Torrance, CA

December 1, 2006 - Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever November sales of 196,695 vehicles, an increase of 15.9 percent over November 2005. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 2,314,202 units, up 12.5 percent over the same period last year.

The Toyota Division posted best-ever November sales of 169,976, up 18 percent. The Lexus Division reported best-ever November sales with 26,719 units sold, an increase of 4.2 percent.

Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever November sales of 92,970, up 14.3 percent over the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted November sales of 34,189, up 15.1 percent from the year-ago month. Camry Hybrid, which went on sale in late April, reported sales of 3,100 units in November. Corolla reported best-ever November sales of 27,015, up 13.9 percent over the same period last year. The all-new Yaris subcompact, which went on sale in March, posted sales totaling 5,936 units for the month. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan posted best-ever November sales of 8,008, an increase of 1.5 percent.

Toyota Division light truck sales were up 22.8 percent, with a best-ever November total of 77,006 units. Light truck sales were led by Sienna with monthly sales of 13,535, up 15 percent over the same period last year. The RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) reported best-ever November sales of 11,425, up 156.9 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which went on sale in March, reported sales of 5,459 units. The Tundra full-size pickup truck reported November sales of 10,469. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 1,667 units for the month. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined November sales of 11,100, up 14.7 percent over the same period last year.
Scion reported November sales of 10,769 units. The tC sports coupe led the way with November sales of 5,084 units. Scion xA sales were up 11.5 percent, posting best-ever November sales of 2,204 units.

Lexus Division
Lexus passenger cars posted best-ever November sales of 16,156 units, an increase of 15.4 percent over November 2005. Passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with best-ever November sales of 6,678 units, up 44 percent. The IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans recorded combined November sales of 3,599 units. The LS 430 and the all-new LS 460 reported combined sales of 3,613, an increase of 116.3 percent.

Lexus Division light trucks reported November sales totaling 10,563 units. The 2006 RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV reported sales of 1,327 units for the month. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined November sales of 8,052 units.

TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 173,859 units. In November, hybrid sales posted 14,278 units.

There were 25 selling days this sales month and last November.

Related:
Breaking Yesterday! Try Not To Smack Your Head On The Low Bar Of October Sales Expectations [internal]

Related:
Breaking Yesterday! Try Not To Smack Your Head On The Low Bar Of October Sales Expectations [internal]

UPDATE: The General's release, which apparently got a discount in the post-Thanksgiving Day sales of the word "retail," below the jump.

UPDATE 2: Also, they're cutting 1st quarter production — to do a better job of "managing inventories." How about snagging an idea from down the road, like some Chrysler-esque incentives — err — direct mail?

For Release: December 1, 2006

GM U.S. Retail Sales Up 11 Percent, Total Sales Up 6 Percent Compared With Last Year

GGM's U.S. Divisions Deliver 297,556 Vehicles In November

Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado and GMC Sierra Pickup Trucks On The Move — Large Pickup Retail Sales Up 29 Percent

New Tahoe, Yukon, and Escalade Push Full-Size Utilities Total Sales Up 73 Percent

Planned Daily Rental Fleet Reductions Impact Q1 2007 Production Forecast

DETROIT - General Motors dealers in the United States sold 297,556 new cars and trucks in November, a 6 percent increase compared with last year. Beginning with the 2007 model year in September, retail sales are up 13 percent and while retail sales for November were up 11 percent compared to a year ago. Retail truck sales were up 17 percent, led by a 29 percent increase in large pickup retail sales such as Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra and a 36 percent increase in luxury utility retail sales, including triple-digit retail increases for the entire Cadillac Escalade lineup. Retail car sales were up 1 percent, led by Chevrolet Impala, Buick Lucerne, Pontiac G5, Saturn Aura and Cadillac CTS.

"We continue to experience strong customer demand for our lineup of fuel efficient vehicles and new launch products. In a challenging market, we are pleased to be gaining momentum with our truck lineup, which we attribute to offering the best fuel economy and the best warranty in the segment, " said Mark LaNeve, General Motors North America vice president, Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing. "Importantly, sales were solid throughout the month with dealers driving traffic with our annual year-end Red Tag Event." The Red Tag Event runs through January 2, 2007.

GMC, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, Saab and Saturn all had retail sales increases in November. GMC was up 23 percent retail, compared with a year ago, with double-digit sales increases for the Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL. Cadillac retail sales were up 26 percent, with a 15 percent increase in CTS and triple-digit increases for the entire Escalade lineup. Chevrolet retail sales were up 9 percent, with retail increases by Silverado, up 23 percent; Tahoe, up 50 percent; and Suburban, up 36 percent. Buick retail sales were up 38 percent, led by Lucerne which saw a sales increase of more than 6,000 vehicles compared with last November. Saab retail sales were up 25 percent, driven by a 87 percent hike for 9-5, a 64 percent rise for 9-7X and a 11 percent retail increase for 9-3. Lastly, Saturn retail sales were up 14 percent as the all-new 2007 Aura and Sky continue to bring new customers into the Saturn family.

"Our Manufacturing team worked extremely hard on a high-quality launch and has already produced more than 50,000 new 2007 Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras, " LaNeve added. "This accelerated launch means we are in the marketplace 13 weeks ahead of schedule - and most importantly - ahead of the competition with the best quality, fuel economy and value in the important full-size pickup segment."

GM continues to reduce its reliance on daily rental sales. Sales to daily rental companies were down 13 percent compared to year-ago levels, while non-daily rental fleet business was up 5 percent. Overall fleet sales of 80,452 vehicles were down 7 percent compared with last November.

Certified Used Vehicles

November sales for GM Certified Used Vehicles, Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, were 42,006 down 1 percent comparable to last November's sales. Certified sales from Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles were not available at the time of this release. Total year-to-date certified GM sales, excluding November sales of Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, are 478,389 units, down 1 percent compared with the same period last year.

GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified pre-owned brand, posted 36,485 sales in November, down 1.7 percent from November 2005. Year-to-date sales for GM Certified Used Vehicles are 413,688 units, comparable to last year's results for the same period.

Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles posted 3,545 sales in November, up 16 percent from last November. Saturn certified pre-owned sold 1,351 unites down 25 percent. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 514 units, up nearly 5 percent. In its eleventh month of operation, HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned sold 112 units.

"Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles continues to roll along with another strong monthly sales performance. For the month, they were up 16 percent over November 2005, with year-to-date sales up 8 percent from the same period last year," said LaNeve. "Through November, GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified brand, sold 413,688 units, comparable to its category record annual sales in 2005."

GM North America Reports November 2006 Production, 2006 Fourth Quarter Production Forecast Remains Unchanged at 1.110 Million Vehicles, 2007 First Quarter Production Forecast Set at 1.140 Million Vehicles

In November, GM North America produced 360,000 vehicles (148,000 cars and 212,000 trucks). This is down 71,000 units or 16 percent compared to November 2005 when the region produced 431,000 vehicles (169,000 cars and 262,000 trucks). (Production totals include joint venture production of 20,000 vehicles in November 2006 and 30,000 vehicles in November 2005.)

The region's 2006 fourth quarter production forecast is unchanged at 1.110 million vehicles (449,000 cars and 661,000 trucks). In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region produced 1.281 million vehicles (483,000 cars and 798,000 trucks). Additionally, the region's initial 2007 first quarter production forecast is set at 1.140 million vehicles (457,000 cars and 683,000 trucks), down 9 percent from first quarter 2006 actuals. The majority of the production decrease in the first quarter is attributed to GM's ongoing efforts to reduce low-margin daily rental fleet sales. The remainder of the cuts is attributed to shifting production to the company's new full-size pickups and the ongoing management of inventories.

GM also announced unchanged 2006 fourth quarter production forecast and initial 2007 first quarter production forecasts for its international regions.

GM Europe- GM Europe's 2006 fourth quarter production forecast is unchanged at 445,000 units. In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region built 443,000 vehicles. The region's initial 2007 first quarter production forecast is set at 508,000 vehicles.

GM Asia Pacific- The region's 2006 fourth quarter production forecast is unchanged at 504,000 units. In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region built 420,000 vehicles. GM Asia Pacific's initial 2007 first quarter production forecast is set at 539,000 vehicles.

GM Latin America, Africa and the Middle East - The region's 2006 fourth quarter production forecast is unchanged at 215,000 units. In the fourth quarter of 2005 the region built 188,000 vehicles. The region's 2007 first quarter production forecast is set as 214,000 vehicles.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 75 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 327,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2005, 9.17 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM operates one of the world's leading finance companies, GMAC Financial Services, which offers automotive, residential and commercial financing and insurance. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Note: GM sales and production results are available on GM Media OnLine at http://media.gm.com by clicking on News, then Sales/Production. In this press release and related comments by General Motors management, we use words like "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "objective," "plan," "goal" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, representing our current judgment about possible future events. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but actual results may differ materially due to a variety of important factors. Among other items, such factors might include: the pace of introductions and market acceptance of new products; the effect of competition on our markets and significant changes in the competitive environment; price increases or shortages of fuel; and changes in laws, regulations or tax rates. GM's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly report on Form 10-Q provide information about these factors, which may be revised or supplemented in future reports to the SEC on Form 10-Q or 8-K.

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