GAC used the North American International Auto Show in Detroit to outline its ambition to become the first China-based automaker to crack the lucrative American car market with the GS7, a new midsized SUV (shown below).
The state-owned Guangzhao Automobile Group Motor Co. Ltd. is the fastest-growing Chinese car company, and it already exports cars to 13 countries besides its home market. But its ambitions include entering the U.S. Other Chinese car companies, like BYD, Chery, and Geely have made similar attempts in recent years without success.
The GS7 features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine and some amenities found on the GS8, a full-sized SUV sold in other parts of the world. GAC says it’s aiming for a vehicle that provides customers with a “more technical and user-friendly mobile car life.”
GAC also debuted a plug-in hybrid crossover concept, the EnSpirit, and an all-electric car, the GE3. The EnSpirit combines elements of a sport sedan, SUV and convertible, for drivers who want a “free, progressive, and fun life attitude,” GAC said. The GE3 is the first pure electric vehicle manufactured GAC’s new-energy platform.
GAC had sales of 370,000 cars in 2016, a 9-percent increase over the previous year. It said it’s leveraging partnerships with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Honda, Mitsubishi, and Toyota to develop a global supply chain. GAC said it will open a U.S.-based research and development center in the first half of the year.
Before selling any vehicles in America, GAC would have to certify that its cars meet U.S. safety and emissions standards. It would also have to build a network of dealers to sell vehicles, service them, and complete safety recalls.
