The Holden brand will be retired from sales in Australia and New Zealand and local design and engineering operations will wind down by 2021, General Motors has revealed.

The company’s Commodore and Astra models were retired late last year amid waning sales.

In the video above: Last Holden rolls off the production line in Adelaide

“Through its proud 160-year history, Holden has not only made cars, it has been a powerful driver of the industrialisation and advancement of Australia and New Zealand,” said General Motors Senior Vice President Julian Blissett said.

“Over recent years, as the industry underwent significant change globally and locally, we implemented a number of alternative strategies to try to sustain and improve the business, together with the local team.”

Rich Australian history

The manufacturer says it is saddened to see the end of the vehicles’ 160-year history in Australia.

“Today’s announcement will be felt deeply by the many people who love Holdens, drive Holdens and feel connected to our company which has been with us for 160 years and is almost ubiquitous in our lives,” Managing Director Kristian Aquilina said.

Adelaide Elizabeth Holden Plant last day Friday 20th October 2017.(Image AAP/Mark Brake) Credit: Mark Brake / AAPIMAGE

“Unfortunately, all the hard work and talent of the Holden family, the support of our parent company GM and the passion of our loyal supporters have not been enough to overcome our challenges.”

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The company will continue to provide servicing and spare parts for existing vehicles for the next 10 years.

Impacted Holden employees will be provided separation packages.