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Holden Will Disappear From Australia By The End Of 2020

Holden Will Disappear From Australia By The End Of 2020

General Motors has revealed it will no longer make cars suitable for Australian roads.

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

General Motors has revealed that Holden will disappear from Australia by the end of the year.

The American company says after 2020, it won't make cars suitable for Australian roads, meaning it won't produce vehicles with a right-hand drive.

The news will likely be a cruel blow to an industry that has struggled over the past few years in the Land Down Under and to the fans who have bought Holden cars for decades.

GM international operations senior vice president Julian Blissett said: "After comprehensive assessment, we regret that we could not prioritise the investment required for Holden to be successful for the long term in Australia and New Zealand, over all other considerations we have globally."

He added that the company has been proud of its 160-year history, however tough decisions have to be made in order for it to continue to survive.

9News says between 600 to 800 jobs will be lost in the move, including workers from Holden's design studio and Lang Lang proving ground.

Around 200 workers will stay on as service and warranty staff, according to Car Advice.

GM Holden interim chairman and managing director Kristian Aquilina said: "Today's announcement will be felt deeply by the many people who love Holdens, drive Holdens and feel connected to our company which has been with us for 160 years and is almost ubiquitous in our lives."

"Holden will always have a special place in the development of our countries. As Australia and New Zealand grew, Holden was a part of the engine room fuelling that development.

"Unfortunately, all the hard work and talent of the Holden family, the support of our parent company GM and the passion of our loyal supporters have not been enough to overcome our challenges."

Once Holden departs Australia, showrooms will be selected to stock a limited range of Chevrolet vehicles under new General Motors Specialty Vehicles Badge.

Featured Image Credit: Car Logos/Holden

Topics: News, Australia