Ford Says Sales in 20 European Markets Jumps 11.6%

Ford Motor Co. said its sales in 20 European markets jumped 11.6%, outpacing the 8% growth in the industry in February.

Ford has been gaining market share over the past year in Europe with the introduction of several new vehicles, with sales declines less than the industry and more recently, sales increases. The burst in February marks a turn as the market has begun to turn up off a low point.

"Our sales and share performance in February marked another step forward for Ford as we progress in our plan to return to profitability in Europe in 2015," said Roelant de Waard, vice president of marketing, sales and service for Ford of Europe, in a statement. Ford is undergoing a restructuring effort in Europe, where it is cutting 18% of its capacity and closing three plants, two of which already are shuttered.

Ford said its market share rose to 7% in the month in these regions.

Ford's release Friday comes before the more official European Automobile Manufacturers Association release, which tracks 27 countries, including Russia and Turkey, which Ford doesn't include in these figures. Ford has made substantial investments in Russia, operating two plants with joint venture partner, Sollers JSC.

Sales in Russia in February declined 11% in February, according to the Association of European Businesses.

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