The death of Pontiac
has inevitable repercussions in Australia, since, barring the Pontiac G8's reincarnation as a Chevrolet
, exports to the U.S. would stop before the end of 2009. That amounts to nearly $1 billion (Australian), or about $700 million (U.S.), Australia's drive.com.au
reports.
You can read what Australians have to say about the future of Holden on Drive's blog. Although the very first commentor suggests the Commodore could easily wear a Chevrolet SS badge, successive commentors are far less optimistic and proceed to lay into Holden for its quality record in the home market. The tone is all very familiar.
kurtamaxxxguy says:
09:36 AM, 04/28/09
Holden, unfortunately, has been on the ropes for years. While living in Australia in late '90's, there would be weekly stories about Holden near closure, and the Australian government being asked to keep it alive.
We shall see but, unless Holden finds another product to export, this time it may be terminal.