The Island Chevrolet lot in Kona is devoid of vehicles and staff Wednesday, May 20. (Hawaii247.com photo by Karin Stanton)

Karin Stanton/Hawaii247.com Contributing Editor

General Motors has left the Big Island. Island Chevrolet dealerships in Hilo and Kona were shuttered and parking lots were emptied by Wednesday afternoon.

The company reportedly sent a plant-closing notice to the state,  indicating it would operate through June 20. A potential sale of the dealerships apparently fell through this week.

Alan Clark, general manager of parent company Clark Automotive Group, previously said sales figures and the overall economy were the driving force behind the closures. He was unavailable for further comment.

The two dealerships, which were bought by Clark in 2001, had more than 30 employees. 

Formerly known as Hawaii Motors and Hilo Motors, the dealerships specialized in General Motors products, including Buick, Cadillac, GMC, Chevrolet and Pontiac. Island Chevrolet also served as a Chevrolet and Cadillac dealer for Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kauai.

It was not clear what will happen to motorists with vehicles still under warranty that might need repair.

Island Chevrolet, which has been operating on the Big Island since the 1960s, reported vehicle sales at about $13 million in 2008.

Island Chevrolet follows Harley-Davidson shops in folding up.

The Kona and Hilo Harley-Davidson shops closed at the end of April, leaving 20 people without jobs.