General Motors Co.'s Opel unit says it plans to start exporting cars to Australia next year, according to AP. Opel said Monday that its range in Australia will include its Insignia, Astra and Corsa models. CEO Nick Reilly said that the Australian launch _ which follows earlier announcements of plans to export to Israel and Chile _ «is an important part of our international expansion strategy.» Opel increasingly is looking to markets beyond its European base as it works to strengthen itself for the future. GM nearly sold a majority stake in its European operations in 2009, but subsequently decided to hold onto and restructure Opel and sister brand Vauxhall.
