GM, Ford report falling sales, FCA posts sales gain in U.S.

Three major U.S.-based automakers on Wednesday reported mixed sales in March, with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) posting a 2 percent gain in sales, General Motors(GM) and Ford registering falling sales.

FCA announced Wednesday its U.S. retail sales increased 2 percent in March, the company's best March sales since 2007. In the month, FCA sold 197,261 vehicles, with its eight brands, including Jeep brand, Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 recording best monthly sales ever.

"March was a tough month, yet we were able to extend our year- over-year sales streak to an even 60-consecutive months," said Reid Bigland, FCA's head of U.S. sales, in a statement.

Ford Motor Company reported its retail sales decreased by 3.4 percent, with its car sales falling 11.6 percent, and utility sales shedding 2.1 percent, despite continued strong demand for its new, aluminum-bodied F-150 pickups. The Dearborn-based automaker said it delivered 235,929 vehicles last month and had strong gains in van and utility sales. March was Ford's best commercial van sales month since 1994.

GM dealers in the United States reported they sold 202,786 vehicles last month, down 2.4 percent from the same time a year ago as car sales struggled. GM saw sales gains for its GMC and Buick brands, while Chevrolet and Cadillac sales both fell.

Total sales of trucks, including pickups, vans and SUVs, were up 14 percent, GM said. Crossover sales were up 6 percent but passenger car sales were down 21 percent. Endite