Geely Using Volvo Connection to Develop Export Models

Chinese automaker GeelyGeelyChina, 1986 > present5 models
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intends to use its ownership of VolvoVolvoSweden, 1927 > present49 models
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to develop more export-friendly cars that will go to Europe first and later to the United States. The first co-developed car is scheduled to be ready in 2015. 

"Our acquisition of Volvo enhanced our image and overseas consumers are seeing us as an international company. Our deliveries in the U.S. and Europe will be banking on those jointly developed models," said Geely CEO Gui Shengyue.

Geely is getting ready to launch the in the UK and has taken a controlling stake in the London Taxi CompanyLTIUnited Kingdom, 1982 > present3 models
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. These models will introduce the name to Europe, but the Volvo co-developed models will be more competitive in the market.

The marketing of the new Geely cars will lean heavily on Volvo's reputation for safety and reliability. Previously, Volvo and Geely had been kept separate to keep from harming Volvo's brand image, but Geely wants to expand to be China's largest auto exporter.

Geely is China's second-largest domestic brand with 100,800 cars sold last year. Its major competitor is CheryCheryChina, 1997 > present7 models
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, which sold 184,800 cars last year. Geely sees exporting cars as a way to overtake its rival. 

Source: Automotive News Europe