General Motors (GM) reported strong first-quarter earnings, with net income rising more than 25% on the back of robust sales of pickup trucks and other higher-profit vehicles. The company made $2.97 billion from January through March, up from $2.34 billion in the same period last year.
Despite a slight dip in U.S. vehicle sales, GM's average sales price per vehicle remained strong at just under $50,000, and pickup sales continued to perform well despite industry-wide price erosion.
GM also announced that it expects mid-single-digit profit margins on electric vehicles (EVs) next year. The automaker is producing more batteries in-house and has seen retail sales of EVs rise during the quarter.
The company's North America operations achieved a higher-than-expected adjusted profit margin of 10.6%, while losses in China were offset by strong performance elsewhere.
GM plans to produce between 200,000 and 300,00 EVs during 21024. Vehicle inventory levels in the US are rising with a supply of 63 days ahead of the spring and summer selling season.
CEO Mary Barra expressed optimism about the sales momentum for vehicles like the Cadillac LYRIQ, and GM shares jumped more than 5% following the report.
Despite these positive developments, it's important to note that there are biases at play in this story. The mainstream media is known to be biased towards certain narratives and may not provide a complete or unbiased view of events. As a neutral journalist, it's crucial to consider multiple sources and perspectives when reporting on complex issues.
Sources:
- ABC News: General Motors reports strong first-quarter profits
- CNBC: General Motors raises 2024 guidance after big first-quarter earnings beat
- Quartz: General Motors stock is rising on strong earnings and sales