The General Motors employee discount program was such a success for GM that Ford and Chrysler are jumping on board. Ford announced its program today, called the "Ford Family Plan" and Chrysler said it will announce details of its plan tomorrow. It's not hard to see why Ford and Chrysler don't want to be left out. June was the best sales month for GM since 1986 with a 46.9 percent jump in sales. GM sold more cars and light trucks in June than any month since September 1986.
Thrilled with the jump in sales, GM is extending the discounts through August 1.
The GM incentives amount to about $4,458 per vehicle. The sale gives buyers an additional average savings of over $1,100 per vehicle through reductions in depreciation cost, interest payments, state fees and taxes.
The only vehicles excluded from the program are the Pontiac GTO and Chevrolet Corvette cars and Hummer H1 SUV.
Under its program, Ford said it will shave thousands of dollars off the sticker prices of most 2005 model vehicles. Like GM's, the program will run through August 1 and, also like GM, Ford will sell its vehicles to anybody at the same prices Ford employees pay.
Ford has seen its U.S. sales fall for 13 consecutive months and has already warned that its automotive operatons may not be profitable this year.
