DAEWOO will cease to exist as a new car brand in Europe from January 1 as General Motors completes the global launch of the Chevrolet brand.

The UK network of Daewoo retailers will be re-branded as Chevrolet and become approved Daewoo repairers for existing customers.

Existing Daewoo stock has begun a run-out period and will be re-badged as Chevrolet by the beginning of next year.

Chevrolet UK will develop the existing GM Daewoo network to more than 100 by the middle of next year, while new Chevrolet owners will enjoy the same three-year warranty with three years’ free servicing and roadside assistance.

Jonathan Browning, GM Europe vice-president of sales, aftersales and marketing, said: ‘Chevrolet has a global presence in more than 70 countries with sales last year of more than 3.6 million vehicles.

‘The new range of Chevrolet cars will provide the affordable entry brand in GM’s new European product strategy as we move forward with Vauxhall supported by Saab, Corvette and Cadillac.’

Andy Carroll, designated managing director of Chevrolet UK, said: ‘We now have a product range that has the potential to grow beyond its previous limits and we can realise that potential growth in the UK much faster as part of a worldwide brand. Chevrolet presents a strong growth opportunity.’

This week’s Paris Motor Show is witnessing a range of new Chevrolet models to complement the existing line-up of re-badge Daewoos, including the S3X 4x4 concept, a new Chevrolet Matiz and the Lacetti station wagon, now wearing the Chevrolet badge.

Chevrolet last appeared in the UK as a handful of Vauxhall dealers sold the Blazer 4x4, Camaro and Corvette coupes and convertibles alongside the Cadillac Seville STS in the late 1990s.

However, with a limited network and models with limited appeal the exercise failed to gain a significant presence for the American brands.