When Holden announced that it lost $193 Million USD in 2009, some wondered whether the loss would have any effect on production of the Cruze in Australia. General Motors planned to begin production of the Cruze in late 2010 at Holden’s Elizabeth (South Australia) plant. It looks like these fears can now be put to rest.

According to Holden’s Chief Financial Officer Mark Bernhard, the 2009 loss would not affect Holden’s plans to start building the Cruze alongside the Commodore at the South Australian vehicle assembly line. Moreover, the 2009 results will not affect plans to introduce a second shift at the facility.

“It’s certainly our intention to move back to a second shift – we just don’t know when that will occur,” said Bernhard.

This is welcome news for all parties involved, including GM, Holden, and Australian workers. Let’s hope the locally-made Cruze will help Holden achieve profitability soon.

Full Holden Cruze gallery after the jump!

2010 Holden Cruze