Currently reading: GM hits out at Opel sale rumours

VW Group chief singled out for particular criticism over rumours of Opel sale by GM

General Motors has hit out at the growing speculation around the potential sale of Opel/Vauxhall.

GM has singled out Volkswagen Group chief Martin Winterkorn for particular criticism, accusing him of continuing a "regrettable pattern of fanning speculation as Opel makes solid progress in its restructuring, in generating improved operating results and more".

Full story - Vauxhall/Opel 'an asset to GM'

The comments from GM are in response to those made by Winterkorn in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung on Wednesday. The VW chief said Hyundai may be interested in buying Opel and he also expected there to be interest from China in buying should GM wish to sell.

"General Motors has a longstanding policy of not commenting on rumors and speculation," continued the statement. "Unfortunately, some of our competitors do not show similar restraint."

Read Autocar's Vauxhall Ampera review

GM also said it believes Winterkorn's comments were made to attempt to dull the positive media reaction to the Vauxhall Ampera. GM claimed a leading industry expert now placed Opel "three years ahead of VW" with the technology.

Opel has also ordered an additional 2000 Amperas to meet strong initial demand for the car.

See all the latest Vauxhall reviews, news and video

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