Holden brand "here to stay," says Devereux

The Holden release was made in response to what the company says were false claims about the future of the Holden brand in a News Ltd article published on December 13.

Mr Devereux said Holden was one of the strongest brands in the country, with a large and established dealer network, and would remain synonymous with cars in Australia.

"We will import vehicles from all over the GM world using the scale, expertise and power of our global product development team," Mr Devereux said.

"Australians have been driving Holden vehicles for decades - and we are determined that Australians will drive Holden vehicles for many years to come.

"Holden is one of the most valuable brands in Australia and we will be continuing to manufacture locally for the next four years.

"Holden is here to stay. It has been an integral part of Australia's history and will be part of its future," Mr Devereux added.

Holden Executive Director, Sales and Marketing, Philip Brook said, "More than 230 dealers across the country will continue to represent Holden in their local communities. They look forward to welcoming and serving our customers for many years to come."

As previously reported, Holden announced it would become a full line importer, meaning all local manufacturing and assembly operations will cease. The component factory at Port Melbourne is expected to close by late 2016, with Holden's Elizabeth vehicle assembly plant to be shuttered by the end of 2017.

GM-H says that, despite the local plant closures, a comprehensive range of Holden passenger cars and light commercial vehicles will continue to be offered.