Gasgoo.com (Shanghai September 20) - Guangqi Fiat's first model, the Fiat Viaggio, hit the Chinese automobile market earlier this month. The Viaggio marks the beginning of a new era for Fiat in China. A Beijing Times report appearing today cited a statement by Guangqi Fiat President Zheng Xiancong, where he confirmed that the joint venture's factory in Changsha, Hunan will be able to manufacture three other vehicles in addition to the Viaggio.
The turbocharged 1.4 L engine-powered Viaggio (pictured) carries a very reasonable price tag of 108,800 yuan to 158,800 yuan ($17,214-$25,125). "Strict cost control has allowed the Viaggio to be competitively priced," JV Deputy General Manager Yan Jianming stated, adding that cost of auto parts for the compact are over 30 percent less than those of its competitors. The JV will also begin manufacturing transmissions for its models in the country, further cutting down on total production costs.
The Fiat CUSW platform, which the Viaggio is based on, can be used for a variety of different vehicles. Fiat plans to release a new hatchback, as well as midsize and long wheelbase sedans, based on the platform. According to Mr. Zheng, the CUSW-based hatchback will be developed by Guangqi Fiat's Chinese team and will be specifically targeted at the country's market. Additionally, Fiat will also release a barebones, high-performance sports car next year.
In related news, Chinese production of the Fiat Freemont crossover will begin in 2014 as it enters a new generation. The next generation Fiat Freemont will use the same chassis technology used by Jeep.
