GM to recall 524,384 vehicles

General Motors said yesterday it was recalling 524,384 cars and sport utility vehicles globally in two actions dealing with potential latch problems and loose parts and would stop sales of two new truck models with potential air bag defects.

The latest recalls, which involve Cadillac and Saab SUVs and Chevrolet Spark small cars, bring the number by the No 1 US car maker to 71 this year, affecting almost 30m vehicles.

The highest profile is the recall of 2.6m cars with defective ignition switches linked to at least 23 deaths.