For release: Aug. 1, 2007
GM VEHICLES DESIGNED FOR PERSONALIZATION – SELF EXPRESSION WHILE PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT
Thanks to shows such as MTV's “ Pimp My Ride” and TLC's “ Overhaulin',” the aftermarket accessories business has grown into a $34 billion annual industry. Recognizing the growth in auto personalization, GM offers an extended portfolio of accessory products that are specifically designed and manufactured to the exact standards of each of GM’s vehicle brands.
Vehicle owners want their car or truck equipped with items that display personality, luxury and style while providing functionality essential to their daily activities. Through GM dealerships, owners can purchase accessories for their vehicle ranging from dual-player headrest DVD rear-seat entertainment systems and elaborate cargo management systems to head-turners such as chrome accents and plus-size wheels and tires.
“It’s important that owners understand the value, security and advantage of purchasing accessories through the vehicle manufacturer versus an aftermarket supplier,” said Nancy Philippart, executive director, GM Accessories. “Genuine accessories from GM won’t compromise the performance of our vehicles or the vehicle systems, and they are fully backed by GM’s 36 month/36,000mile warranty.”
Philippart said GM recognizes the importance of providing customers with an opportunity to personalize their vehicles while preserving the vehicle’s functionality and brand identity.
GM designs accessories at its GM Accessories Design Studio, which opened in 2005. The studio connects the accessory and vehicle designers to help ensure a factory-quality fit and finish as well as an integrated, tailored appearance.
"GM is the first OEM to use this process on accessories – a contrast to the common industry practice of reverse engineering after the product hits the streets,” said Philippart. “At GM, ‘aftermarket’ does not mean ‘afterthought.’ ”
Because they meet GM’s rigorous standards for safety and durability, all accessories offered by GM brands are backed by the promise of a General Motors warranty. Accessories permanently installed on a new GM vehicle at the time of delivery are covered under the GM New Vehicle Limited Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty, and can be included in the financing of the vehicle, making them both convenient and affordable. GM accessories permanently installed by a GM dealer after vehicle purchase are covered for the balance of the new vehicle warranty, and no less than 12 months or 12,000 miles.
GM Accessories and GM Performance Parts are sold in North America by Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, Cadillac, GMC, Saturn retailers, Saab and HUMMER dealerships. For more information about GM Parts, GM Accessories or GM Performance Parts or to locate the closest GM dealership, call 1-800-577-6888.
General Motors (NYSE: GM), the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide, and has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.
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Contact:
Tom Henderson
GM SPO Communications
Office: 810-606-3114
Cell: 810-241-6470
E-mail: tom.e.henderson@gm.com
Tony LaRocca
GM of Canada Communications
Phone: 905-644-1804
Fax: 905-644-3873
E-mail: tony.larocca@gm.com
Antonio Sanchez Jimenez
Gerente de Relaciones Públicas y Comunicación
General Motors de Mexico
Office: 011-5255-5901-3042
E-mail: angelantonio.sanchezjimenez@gm.com