Ford, Hyundai post growth in February

MANILA, Philippines - Ford Group Philippines (FGP) and Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) both declared growth in their February sales when compared to the same period last year.

Ford sales went up by 76 percent while Hyundai posted a 0.3 percent increase for February 2011 versus February 2010.

Overall February sales for Ford brand vehicles rose 76 to 818 units last month from a year ago level. This was led by the continuing strength of demand for the all-new Ford Fiesta – which regained its position as the best-selling hatchback in the Philippines – and its consistently top-selling Everest SUV.

Fiesta delivered strong February sales that increased 20 percent from last month to 268 units. Ford celebrated the 1000th Fiesta sale in the Philippines during the month.

“The all-new Fiesta continues to connect with consumers across the country in many different and exciting ways,” said Randy Krieger, president of FGP. “The Fiesta’s best-in-class offering – including its unique kinetic design, superior fuel efficiency, class-leading safety features and cool and smart technologies – is really gaining traction among young and trendy Filipinos who again made it the best-selling hatchback in the country in February.”

The Fiesta’s February performance was complemented by strong sales of Ford Everest that jumped 83 percent from a year ago to 244 units, and Ford Ranger sales that rose 21 percent versus last year to 115 units.

Overall sales of Ford-brand vehicles in the Philippines in the first two months of the year have risen 79 percent versus the same period a year ago to 1,506 vehicles.

Meanwhile, February sales of Hyundai slightly increased to 1,538 units from 1,533 units during the same month in 2010.

However, a combined sales figure for January and February 2011 showed a healthier picture as this went up by 13.4 percent versus the first two months of 2010. Year-to-date growth was boosted by the Getz, Santa Fe, and Grand Starex. Improved performance of the Sonata and the Grand Starex offset the shortage in supply of the new Accent and Tucson models in February.

“We have recently opened new Hyundai dealerships to address the continuing demand for Hyundai automobiles and services and, of course, to support the ongoing course of progress for the country’s automotive industry,” said Fe Perez-Agudo, president and CEO of HARI.

“From 36 dealerships, we’re on our way to expanding our network to 45 Hyundai dealerships this year to make Hyundai vehicles and Best C.A.R.E. services as well as our One Hyundai Club, the first-ever distributor-based, comprehensive car loyalty program in the Philippines, more accessible to Filipino motorists, thereby improving our customers’ experience of the Hyundai brand.”