GM sales in China continue to surge and in January the company sold more cars there than it did in the U.S. (219,000 cars vs. 146,000). China’s auto market grew to become the largest in the world last year and nearly every manufacturer selling cars in that market is reaping the benefits. Ford saw sales grow 128% to nearly 31,0000 units while Toyota reported an increase of 53% to 72,000. Small numbers, to be sure, but the Chinese market, along with those of India, Russia and Brazil, is expected to be red hot for some time to come.

The strength of the Chinese market probably figured heavily in GMs restructuring decisions last year. As the company slashed the number of brands it offered from eight to just four, it was clear that Buick would have to remain because of its popularity in China.

For more detail head to Detroit News.

--M.D.