(September 21, 2011) SHANGHAI — Shanghai GM on Tuesday celebrated the production of its 5 millionth vehicle, a Buick LaCrosse eAssist. This is the shortest period of time that any Chinese automaker has reached the milestone. The GM-SAIC joint venture’s first vehicle rolled off the assembly line on Dec. 17, 1998.

Joining Shanghai GM employees for their latest achievement were GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson and the General Motors Company board of directors.

“We are proud of the success of Shanghai GM,” said GM China Group President and Managing Director Kevin Wale. “Its rapid growth has made a significant contribution to the development of China’s vehicle market. It has helped make personal four-wheel transportation attainable for more and more people nationwide.”

Shanghai GM built its 1 millionth vehicle in August 2005. Last year, it became China’s first passenger car manufacturer to build and sell more than 1 million vehicles in a calendar year.

Shanghai GM has established a solid foundation for the ongoing expansion of its brands, products and services. It offers an extensive lineup of vehicles under the Buick, Chevrolet and Cadillac brands. With its Drive to Green strategy, Shanghai GM is providing models that are leaders in their segments in performance, fuel efficiency and emissions. In the first eight months of 2011, Shanghai GM s