Overseas operations are weak, particularly the once-strong GM of Germany (Opel).

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For years GM operated as a loose federation, in which Opel in Europe and Holden in Australia each had their own product development and assembly operations, separate from North America.

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The Peugeot deal is likely to help GM fill in the blanks on its Opel turnaround plan, although some analysts are still questioning why GM wants to hang onto its European operations, given the declining market and intense competition.

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