The global automotive industry is in the throes of major change. In 2009, China became the world’s biggest automotive market, ahead of North America. Today, emerging countries account for the bulk of growth in automotive markets. Historically based in Western Europe, PSA Peugeot Citroën started deploying its production base and products in South America from the start of the 1980s, and in China from 1992. Today, the Group has identified three key regions for its development: China, South America and Russia.
Being more global means achieving critical mass in market share in these regions, particularly through vehicles and sub-systems better tailored to the specific requirements of local customers and local energy resources: automatic or other types of gearbox, hatchbacks or sedans, diesel, petrol or flex-fuel engines, etc.
But being more global also means developing and showcasing a wider variety of cultures and profiles within the company, primarily at management level.

In 2009, the Group increased sales outside Europe to one-third of the total, or 1,055,000 vehicles
On destabilised and strongly contrasting markets, Peugeot and Citroën successfully pursued their international expansion in 2009, building primarily on the launch of new vehicles. In 2010, the Group’s international growth received new impetus with the opening of the Kaluga plant in Russia and the launch of new body styles, such as the Peugeot 408 in China, and the Peugeot Hoggar pick-up and Citroën C3 Aircross in South America.

PSA Peugeot Citroën, Europe’s No. 2 manufacturer
In 2009, the Group held up well against declining European markets, with 2,133,000 vehicles sold and increased market share of 13.7%. It confirmed its leadership on the LCV market with market share of 22.2%. This success can be attributed in particular to a steady stream of new vehicles, and to a wide offering of vehicles with low CO2 emissions.
In consequence, PSA is leading the way in the segment of vehicles emitting less than 120g of CO2/km.