Automakers reported double-digit U.S. sales increases in January, a sign that car sales didn't spin out even with a major snowstorm hitting the Northeast.
General Motors' sales rose 18 percent over last January, while Ford and Nissan each posted 15 percent gains. Nissan's sales gains were the best for January in the company's history.
Chrysler said Tuesday that its sales rose 14 percent last month to just over 145,000 vehicles for its best January since 2007.
U.S. sales of new vehicles were expected to be strong in January, continuing the brisk pace of the last half of 2014. Kelley Blue Book predicted overall sales will rise 13 percent to 1.14 million vehicles, making this the best January in nine years. All automakers report U.S. sales results on Tuesday. January is typically a slow month for the auto industry. Buyers have less incentive to shop, since automakers offer fewer deals and promotions after the holidays and tax bills are looming. Bad weather can also keep customers away.
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-- The Associated Press