According to preliminary sales figures, the world’s largest auto manufacturer, US-based General Motors, sold a record 2.26 million cars and trucks around the world in the first quarter of 2007, a rise of 3%, or 67,000 vehicles, compared with sales of 2.19 million in the comparable period in 2006.

The improved results were attributed to “exceptionally strong demand in emerging markets", as the company posted sales growth in excess of 20% in the Asia/Pacific region, and 17% in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East region. The company also performed well in the European market reporting record sales of 554,000 vehicles, up 6% year-on-year, led by a staggering 128% increase in Russia.