The design, engineering and performance of VE Commodore SS has secured its place in the prestigious Pontiac line-up, a brand renowned for its driving excitement.

Full production of the Pontiac G8 export vehicle will commence at the Holden plant in Elizabeth, South Australia, in late 2007.

GM's Chairman for North America and Vice-Chairman for product development, Bob Lutz, announced the export programme overnight at the 2007 Chicago Motor Show.

Mr Mooney said today that the export programme reinforced the global appeal of the VE Commodore, as well as Holden’s position in the GM organisation.

"This export programme confirms VE Commodore is a vehicle designed and engineered to appeal to both local and overseas markets." Mr Mooney said.

“It also highlights GM Holden’s rear-wheel drive expertise globally. A car developed in Australia can be introduced in the United States, the Middle East and South Africa with equal impact."

"The local market is changing and exports will continue to be integral to Holden’s success, as they have been for more than 50 years."

“This is an opportunity for Holden to optimise capacity and further improve efficiency as we work to meet the challenges of a changing market."

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the Australian automotive industry’s ability to deliver significant returns to the national economy.”

The export programme will expand the model range at Holden’s Elizabeth plant to 18 domestic and 15 export variants.