Nissan posts triple-digit growth in commercial vehicle sales

In a period of gloom and doom, it is almost too much to expect a positive sales growth particularly in big ticket items like cars.

Nissan Motor Philippines, Inc., however, seems to be bucking the trend as it posted a triple-digit hike in commercial vehicle sales in the first two months of the year.

Data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. showed that Nissan Motor posted a 132.3 percent growth in sales from January to February compared with the same months in 2007.

Nissan Motor sales and marketing manager Raymond Tribdino said sales of the X-Trail are driven by the vehicle's performance, while the Serena sells on its cost efficiency as a luxury van.

Meanwhile, the Grand Livina, which was introduced in the local market in June 2008, is popular for its versatility as a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).

"We are within target but we feel that we can sell more," Tribdino said given the growing market of its MPV.

Following Nissan's trail in sales growth for the commercial vehicle segment are Mitsubishi Motor Philippines at a far second with a 23.3 percent sales hike, Suzuki Philippines, Inc. with 20.5 percent, BMW distributor Asian Carmakers Corp. with 18.5 percent, Porsche and Audi distributor PGA Cars, Inc. with 18.2 percent.

The rest of the CAMPI members posted a sales contraction in the commercial vehicle segment.