Citroen: on all fronts

Company Citroen has told about the outcome of last year, which was for the French automaker's very successful. Sales growth and market share notes everywhere. Good results were brand has achieved in the European market in China, and Latin America. Russia is also not an exception. Global sales of Citroen rose 8% to 1,460,000 vehicles. Before starting the press conference was officially presented the new Director of Operations Citroen brand in Russia, succeeding Arno Ribot, Jean-Louis Shamley. It was he who spoke about the commercial results of the company last year and announced plans to further develop the brand in 2011. Passed in 2010 was very successful for Citroen in Russia. Despite the difficult economic situation in the world successfully Citroen to launch its own production in Kaluga and bring to market new models: Citroen C3, C1, DS3. For the twelve months, the company sold 17,419 cars, so sales growth was 41%, while the Russian market grew by 30%. In other words, the French brand increased its market share in Russia. Sales leader in the Russian market is still the model Citroen C4, whose sales totaled 4,773 vehicles and more than in 2009 to 16%. Growth is largely achieved because the model is included in the recycling program (the recycling program implemented 41% of C4). The greatest demand among Russian consumers enjoy specially designed for the Russian response to Optima, which includes options such as dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, audio system, alloy 16-inch wheels and six airbags. A striking development was the time to market for a new Citroen C3. Sales of the model increased by 127% to $ 1,481 a car. Successful was the debut of the Russian market in July last year and subkompaktnoy model Citroen C1, which, by the year ranked third in the segment. In May, started selling model, DS3, for short term secured a market share in the segment at 16%. Excellent performance achieved and models such as the Citroen C3 Picasso, and the passenger version of the Citroen Berlingo. Compared with last year sales of models have grown by 161% and 203% respectively. Citroen C5 sales declined slightly, but the model on the background of the fall in the market segment by 9% managed to maintain their positions. By the end of 2010 sold 1,898 cars. With sales of Citroen C-Crosser assembled in Russia since the start of shipments to dealers (late October) amounted to 967 units. Important elements in achieving positive sales development was the discovery of seven new dealerships, as well as new programs for clients including Citroen Assistance, which provides around the clock roadside assistance and Citroen Essential Drive, allowing to extend the warranty car. Particular attention in the company Citroen also given to the development direction of B2B. In 2010, the program was launched Citroen Business, where the main goal is to provide comprehensive support to corporate clients. The company's plans for 2011 are ambitious. According to the statement by Jean-Louis Shamley, Mark will continue to develop dynamically. Sales expected to increase to 28,000 vehicles. This year will present a new "Collection» Citroen DS3, Citroen C4 Picasso can be ordered in two-tone design. For fans of the Citroen C5 will be offered a new version with a 200-horsepower 4-cylinder turbodiesel. In the second half of this year at a production facility in Kaluga is to begin assembling a new Citroen C4. In addition, significantly expanded dealer network and customers will be offered a new program. This year marks the fans also have the opportunity to buy a car with mileage on special terms. These cars will be offered with the original manufacturer's warranty, their age will not exceed five years and mileage 150,000 miles. Text: Alex Guy