Speaking from Shanghai, NHTSA Administrator David Strickland tells Bloomberg that “a number” of Chinese automakers have expressed interest in selling their products in the US, to which the auto safety regulator says:
When they offer their vehicle for sale, we will treat them like we will treat any company whether it is a Detroit company or a Japanese company or a Chinese company.
Strickland identified GM’s partner SAIC as one company that was interested in US sales, although the automaker says it’s waiting until it has “more suitable product” for the market. Chinese auto exports currently make up only 3 percent of production, a number the Chinese government wants to increase to 20 percent by 2012-2015. Separately, SAIC announced this week that it plans to invest some $1.85b into its hybrid, electric and fuel-cell technologies.
I can see a place for Chinese company’s if they are
1)Cheap
2)Cheerful
3)Reliable
4)Safe.
Thats all they really need to break into the market. Unfortunately it seems like they only have one or two of those attributes perfected.
Are there any cars that are cheap, cheerful, reliable and safe?
OK, then explain Dodge / Chrysler:
– Cheaply discounted
– Un-Cheerful.
– Not at all Reliable.
– Not particularly Safe.
If the Chinese can come in 5 to 10% Cheaper than Dodge / Chrysler, and just as Safe, they will do just fine.
That shouldnt be too hard
The latest models from MG look average in the UK market place. But considering their range is a first attempt then I’m sure SAIC will be delighted!