DETROIT - One thousand lucky driving enthusiasts are looking forward to receiving an exclusive version of the new Pontiac Solstice roadster after being first in line to participate in a special promotion announced on Thursday night's episode of NBC's The Apprentice. Only 41 minutes were required to sell out of the specially-badged "First 1,000" Solstices.

"With the great response we've seen to the design and performance features being offered in our new Pontiacs, we were expecting many customers to jump at the chance to order one of the first Solstices," said John Larson, general manager of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. "But we were thrilled that we achieved such amazing results so quickly."

Orders were received from more than 650 dealers in 47 states. Additionally, more than 4,000 customers have asked to be placed on the wait list for one of the exclusive vehicles.

The Solstice early order program will continue through Sunday, April 24. Although the exclusive "First 1,000" cars have been ordered, Pontiac dealers have an additional allotment of Solstices available for pre-order during this period.

Pontiac is the performance division of General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest vehicle manufacturer. Pontiac markets the GTO, Grand Prix, Vibe, Bonneville, Sunfire, Montana SV6 and the all-new G6 sedan. Pontiac sold more than 474,000 vehicles in 2004, ranking third among GM divisions in total sales. For the 2005 model year, Pontiac dealers are also introducing G6 coupe, Solstice and Torrent. More information on Pontiac and its products can be found on www.pontiac.com.