ACEA sees mixed outlook for 2011 global vehicle sales

ERJ staff report (DS)

Brussels -- The global automotive market situation is expected to remain mixed in 2011, with strong demand in the so-called BRIC countries while the economic situation in Europe is likely to keep dampening new passenger car sales in this region, according to a 2 Feb. statement from ACEA, the European federation of vehicle makers. Commercial vehicle sales in Europe may record a relatively strong growth, however against the backdrop of the low market levels of the recent crisis.

This outlook on 2011 was given by ACEA President Dieter Zetsche (Daimler) as part of his speech in Brussels yesterday evening at the annual reception of the auto industry's trade association. The other keynote speaker was Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard.

Zetsche reflected on the situation in the more mature automotive markets such as the EU, as well as the prospected surge in vehicle demand in developing economies. Zetsche summarised the challenges for the European auto industry in two key questions: “First, how do we fulfil the growing demand for automobiles sustainably? Second, how do we make sure that Europe is a key player in doing so?” The answers, he said, are in the main ACEA priorities for this year: “Win on free trade; keep cutting emissions; and put “CARS 21” in the fast lane.”

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Press release from ACEA