General Motors Reports High Q3 US Sales Amid Ongoing Labor Strike

General Motors (GM) has reported a significant surge in its third-quarter US auto sales, recording a 21 percent increase in deliveries, totaling 674,336 vehicles. This performance can be attributed to strong sales in models such as the Silverado pickup line and the GMC truck brand.

GM's Q3 Sales

Chevrolet, a brand under the GM umbrella, experienced a notable upswing, with sales rising by 21 percent. Among Chevrolet's achievements, the Colorado model saw a 28 percent increase in sales compared to the previous quarter.

Additionally, both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV experienced a 13 percent growth in sales from the previous quarter, marking their best year-to-date performance.

Cadillac, another brand under GM, reported a 6 percent increase in sales. Notably, the CT5 model saw a 47 percent surge in sales, achieving its best-ever performance in the third quarter. The V-Series Blackwing also demonstrated impressive growth, with a 24 percent increase in sales.

Buick, exhibiting exceptional growth in the mainstream category, recorded a substantial 54 percent rise in sales. This makes Buick the fastest-growing mainstream brand in the industry year-over-year, with year-to-date sales up by an impressive 63 percent, according to the company.

Furthermore, the Enclave model witnessed a 34 percent increase in sales. GMC also reported 19 percent growth in sales. The Sierra model, a standout performer, experienced a remarkable 46 percent surge in sales.

Additionally, the AT4 and Denali variants constituted 53 percent of all retail sales for GMC. These figures indicate a robust performance by GM across its various brands and models.

Ongoing Labor Strike Against the Big 3

Despite this, like its Detroit rivals Ford and Stellantis, GM is currently contending with an ongoing labor strike initiated by the United Auto Workers (UAW). This strike has the potential to impact the company's operations and underscores the complex dynamics at play in the automotive industry.

Termed a "stand up strike," this approach, reminiscent of the sit-down strikes of the 1930s, aims to maintain an element of surprise and relies on disciplined organization and creativity.

The UAW asserts that this tactic is a response to the need to champion the working class against the overpowering influence of corporate interests. Ford said it has made concerted efforts to reach an agreement with the UAW, presenting four proposals since August 29.

Its recent offer reported in September included a 20% wage increase, cost of living adjustments, extended paid time off, and augmented retirement contributions. However, Ford expressed disappointment with the UAW's counterproposal, citing limited movement from the union's initial demands in August.

General Motors expressed similar sentiments, expressing disappointment in the strike but affirming its commitment to ongoing negotiations for a swift resolution. Stellantis, while acknowledging the strike, did not divulge further details about its contingency measures.