Number One FIAT Dealer in the USA: Santa Monica FIAT sets record for sales in a year

SANTA MONICA, CA--Jan. 7, 2014: Santa Monica FIAT is proud to announce it was the number one FIAT store in the country in 2013.

The dealership just had its grand opening in May 2012, making 2013 the first full calendar year for the store. In spite of that, the dealer sold a record-breaking 813 new cars since January 1st. That's the highest number posted by a FIAT studio since the brand returned to the USA in 2011.

"We're so proud of the entire team here," Santa Monica FIAT General Manager Jon Schwartz said. "To have come this far in such a short time is a huge achievement."

The battle for the top spot was a close one. The Southern California dealer just edged out its closest rival by less than 20 sales.

The large numbers are a testament to the growing popularity of the cars themselves. General Sales Manager, Jason Frieder admits the charming character of the FIATs makes his job easier. "Santa Monica has really embraced FIAT," Frieder said. "They're fun, different, affordable and don't use much gas. They really are the perfect California car."

One of the main reasons for the store's success could be the introduction of the all-electric FIAT 500e. The new electric car is only available in California and is one of the most affordable EVs on the market. Also new for last year was the four-door 500L, which opened up the possibility of Italian car ownership to a new demographic of driver.

Santa Monica FIAT would like to thank its customers and the people of Santa Monica for making last year such a success.

With the last year in the books, the store now sets its sights on 2014. "Obviously we're going to try and defend our number one title, but I really want to beat last year's numbers," Frieder said.