Oshawa Car Assembly Plant Number 1 has been running on maximum overtimeto meet demand for the Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo but even at fullovertime, demand continues to exceed production capacity. Over the lastseveral months, GM Canada and the CAW looked at a number of alternatives toimprove plant utilization. The third shift is a direct result of a cooperativeeffort by GM Canada and CAW Local 222, as well as our supplier community.
Launched in 1999, the Chevrolet Impala has become a leader in the verycompetitive mid-size passenger car segment. Impala sales last year soared by19% in the U.S. and 24% in Canada with GM selling over 226,000 Impalas inNorth America. Its popularity is due to a combination of outstanding quality,great styling and good value. The Impala nameplate is the best-sellingpassenger car in Chevrolet history.
GM Canada Oshawa Car Assembly Plants employ approximately 5,000 people.Plant No. 1 produces the Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo. Plant No. 2produces the Buick Century and Regal passenger cars. In 2001, they produced474,000 vehicles.