New Car Sales in Silicon Valley Mirror National Success

SAN JOSE, Calif.--Jan. 9, 2002--Sustaining its position as one of the most productive auto sales regions in the world, Santa Clara County new vehicle sales in 2001 reflected the national success which saw the industry as a whole record its second best year in history.

``Despite the assault on our nation, we've once again witnessed the strength of the American consumer,'' said Phil Dirickson, President of the Silicon Valley Auto Dealers Association and President of Stevens Creek Buick/Pontiac/GMC.

Dirickson reflected on a recent report by the National Auto Dealers Association of America while speaking at the 2002 San Jose International Auto Show Preview Gala Tuesday night at the San Jose Convention Center.

According to NADA chief economist Paul Taylor, franchised new car dealers sold over 17.1 million units in the calendar year 2001, second only to sales of 17.35 million vehicles in 2000. The third best year in recorded sales history was 1999 when 16.89 million units were sold.

Dirickson confirmed that Santa Clara County new vehicle sales would mirror the national numbers and post results second only to 2001.

``As a whole, members of the SVADA were down nine percent from last year's record year at the end of November,'' Dirickson said. ``I know December was up but I don't believe enough to surpass last year.

``It's incredible that 2001 was anywhere close to 2000. Overall sales for the the year were far better than anyone would have expected six months ago.''

Dirickson confirmed that the no-interest financing offered throughout the industry after the September 11 terrorist attacks drove an exceptionally strong fourth quarter.

``Given the right deal, people are always interested in new wheels,'' Dirickson remarked.

New car sales success in the Silicon Valley is also reflected by the continued growth of the eighth San Jose International Auto Show, January 9-13 at the Convention Center.

Regarded by automotive industry publications as the fastest growing new car show in America, the San Jose show expects to draw nearly 250,000 visitors during its five-day run.

More information on the Auto Show is available online at www.sjautoshow.com.