Holden today confirmed that it would begin importing vehicles from General Motors’ South Korean operations (GMDAT) later this year, further developing trade between the two countries. Launching the Holden-made GM Daewoo Statesman to Korean press in Melbourne this morning, Holden Chairman and Managing Director Denny Mooney said Korean-sourced products would further enhance two-way trade between Holden and GM Daewoo.

Mr Mooney said Holden would begin receiving GM Daewoo products in the second half of the year, with nameplate and timing details to be released later in 2005. “Holden can take advantage of GM’s South Korean capability in design, development and manufacturing to expand its portfolio later this year,” Mr Mooney said. Holden already exports vehicles and four-cylinder engines to Korea. The decision to import cars in return will strengthen the relationship between two of GM’s key family members in the Asia Pacific region. “Both organisations are successful in their home markets and successful exporters. There is a tremendous relationship growing stronger by the day,” he said. “GM Daewoo designs, develops and manufactures high quality vehicles for a number of brands around the world. Those cars compete against the best of the best around the world and in every market they have entered they have been successful.” Mr Mooney, a member of the GM Daewoo board, said Australian influences on the GM Daewoo vehicles would be strong. “We have design personnel located in Korea and Holden engineering will be involved in areas such as chassis and engine performance. The GM Daewoo sourced vehicles will offer great value, high quality and the excitement Australian customers expect from Holden.” GM Daewoo President and CEO Nick Reilly said Holden was a premier brand in Australia and to have product sourced from GM Daewoo and be part of the Holden family was a real honour. “We are equally pleased to have product sourced from Holden as part of the GM Daewoo family in Korea. We think Statesman will be a great addition to our product line up,” Mr Reilly said.

Last year the Next Car team predicted we will see Daewoo back in Australia. The announcement from Holden, today, confirms we were right ..... again!