General Motors' U.S. sales rose 16 percent in January, as auto sales continue to be a bright spot in the U.S. economic recovery.

GM says it sold almost 195,000 cars and trucks last month, led by the Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, with a 32 percent gain. GM sold more than 35,000 Silverados in January, a good sign for the economy as businesses replace aging trucks.

Other automakers also reported strong sales for the month. Chrysler was up 16 percent and Ford sales rose 22 percent.

Industry analysts expect January sales to hit an annual rate of close to 15.5 million. If that trend holds through the rest of the year, sales will be 1 million more than last year.