According to the agreement, GM Mexico will open a new distribution network and provide sale and customer care services for the entire Fiat range. The 5-door 2-volume Palio, the Palio sedan and Palio SW manufactured by Fiat Automòveis in Brazil will be the first models to be sold. The sale of Fiat vehicles will begin in the third quarter of 2003 and annual sales of approximately 20,000 units are expected to be reached at full capacity.

Fiat Auto will enter the Mexican market by using the know-how and infrastructures of GM Mexico, which, in turn, will strengthen and enlarge its product portfolio with competitive models that enjoy consolidated success in many countries.

The agreement, while extending the field of co-operation between Fiat and General Motors beyond the geographical area originally defined by the alliance, is a further demonstration of the determination of the two companies to identify even greater synergies and opportunities for common activities.