General Motors February US sales up 7 percent

DETROIT (AP) — General Motors' U.S. sales rose 7 percent in February, another sign that U.S. auto sales powered through any consumer uncertainty caused by an uneven economy and possible government spending cuts.

GM says it sold just over 224,000 cars and trucks last month, led by the Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck with a 29 percent increase. GM sold nearly 42,000 Silverados in February as businesses replaced aging trucks.

Other automakers also reported sales increases for the month. Chrysler was up 4 percent, while Ford rose 9 percent.

Industry analysts expect February U.S. sales to rise about 7 percent for an annual rate of about 15.2 million.