Mexico’s Vehicle Output Drops 11%, Sales Dip 1%

Auto production in Mexico fell to 238,500 vehicles last month from 268,600 units in March 2012, according to industry group AMIA. March marked the country's first decline in output since April 2011.

Mexico's sales of cars and light trucks slipped to 82,800 units last month from 83,600 units the previous year. AMIA says March production and sales were lower because the month had two fewer working days than a year earlier.

The country's exports slid 10% to 204,500 units in March as shipments to most major markets shrank.

In the January-March period, Mexico's light vehicle sales climbed 6%, boosted by gains for SUVs (+15% to 44,900 units), compacts (+20% to 75,400 units) and midsize cars (+14% to 14,500 units). Demand dropped for subcompacts (-4% to 76,100 units), pickup trucks (-8% to 31,200 units) and minivans (-19% to 3,700 units).

The country's quarterly production rose 2% to 727,600 vehicles. Exports declined 4% to 558,400 units in that period, thanks to lower shipments to central and South America and Europe.