Big Three and other automakers report sales increase

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Chrysler, GM, and Ford are beaming with pride after sales increased for them in June.

Ford reports they’re up 7% in sales.  GM is up more than 15 percent and Chrysler reports a 24 percent increase.

“It still has room to grow for sure but we’re much better than we were a year ago,” said expert Dave Zoia of Wards Auto.

Stellar sales in June have been phenomenal for Southfield Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.  General manager Paul Steel believes there are a number of reasons why.  Popular cars there are the mini-vans, the Journey, and the Chrysler 200.

“It’s exciting,” said Steel.  “The banks are buying better for us, the product we have coming out in 2013 is outstanding, and each day gets better and better.”

Down the street at Serra Chevrolet, they have benefited from a boost in sales too.

General Manager of New Sales, Jeremy Dixon tells 7 Action News their biggest sellers are the Cruze,  the Malibu, and the Chevy Volt.

“I see our industry continually recovering,” said Dixon.  “I really do think in the next two or three years we will see record sales.”

The great numbers are not just happening on  the domestic front.  The larger Japanese auto companies have seen major improvements. 

“They’re out pacing the market overall, in comparison with a year ago when the market was pretty bleak for them,” said Zoia.

Local car dealerships say the improving economy has also helped. They believe new models coming out soon will with also help with sales.