PSA Peugeot Citroen 2012 sales decline

The current crisis affecting the European automobile market has taken its toll on auto companies during the past year. PSA Peugeot Citroen experienced a dip in sales during 2012 with worldwide sales considerably lower than expectations during January to December 2012. The French automakers reported decline in sales during 2012 in Europe while at the same time sales outside Europe increased.

Where sales across Europe are concerned, the auto major does not have much expectation for the current year as well with another difficult year in Europe predicted despite the company bringing out innovative products and attractive vehicles. Sales were particularly down in Southern Europe where PSA Peugeot has a larger presence. Sales in Europe dropped to 1.76 million units during the past year as compared to 2.06 million units in same period of 2011. Worldwide sales of assembled vehicles dipped 8.8% to 2.82 million units while sales of new vehicles and CKD units dropped by 16.5% to 2.97 units resulting in company calling off its CKD sales in Iran.

2012 however, saw successful launch of Peugeot 208 of which the company sold 221,000 units while the introduction of a 3 cylinder petrol engine version in summer added to sales pitch. Peugeot 208 was a top seller in Europe since June. It is this performance that ensured that Peugeot was the leading European brand during the second half of 2012 while in December 2012, Peugeot 208 was declared as the bestselling vehicle in France.