BMW and Brilliance Considering New Chinese Brand for Joint-Developed Cars

BMWBMWGermany, 1918 > present87 models
8471 photos
43 videos
and its Chinese joint venture partner BrillianceBrillianceChina, 2002 > present1 model
6 photos
are considering creating a new automotive brand that would build cars based on existing BMW platforms. This news comes from a Chinese newspaper, and a more specific announcement is expected at the Shanghai Auto Show on April 20. 

There are few details about the new brand at the moment, but it would likely be aimed at China and use existing BMW platforms. It might also be sold in emerging markets.

The Chinese government has been pushing for its automakers to export more cars and build more hybrid vehicles. It is also forcing automakers to create new brands when foreign automakers and domestic Chinese automakers collaborate on new models.

“Local brands have been largely directed at the domestic market. If I were the auto minister for China, I would say, ‘Well, where are our Hyundai and Kia?’ Out of that, I’m sure a couple will be successful,” said BMW Head of Sales Ian Robertson.

Source: Automotive News Europe