Ducati Weathers Financial Storm in Q1
Despite the economic downturn figures released from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show that premium pricing is not necessarily an impediment to sales in a recession for motorcycles with a strong brand image and clear positioning.
Ducati sold 445 bikes in the USA for the first quarter of 2009 putting the Italian manufacturer just outside the top 10 with a decline of 6%. This is despite the entire motorcycle market being 16% behind the prior year. It is not known to what extent Ducati’s special financing program may have boosted sales. Harley Davidson showed similar resilience with sales down just 4%.
The major manufacturers were a mixed bag with Yamaha down 24% and Honda down 29%. Suzuki and Kawasaki both rose 2% and 13% respectively.
Figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show a 15.5 percent decline in sales of motorcycles, scooters and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) compared to the first quarter 2008.
link: The Motor Report Auto News Blog
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