Shanghai, January 5 (Gasgoo.com) Chinese automakers launched a record 221 new passenger vehicle models last year, Xinhua News reported today, citing industry information.
A majority of them are upgraded models; only less than 50 are all-new one. New homegrown brand models numbered 120 in 2009, over half the total, according to the latest statistics from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM).
Changan Auto launched over 20 new car models and mini car models in 2009, while Chery Auto unveiled 15 new car, SUV and mini models. Geely Auto introduced five new models, including three all-new ones, and Great Wall Motor launched 13 new car, SUV and MPV models. BYD Auto unveiled six revamped models and two all-new ones.
Other domestic automakers, such as SAIC Motor, FAW Group, Dongfeng Motor, Jianghuai Auto, Lifan Motors, Brilliance Auto and Zhejiang Gonow Auto, also launched a variety of new homegrown vehicle models.
Joint venture also pushed new model development. Shanghai GM, a passenger car venture between General Motors and SAIC Motor, launched 10 new models in 2009. The JV has planned to roll out 30 new or revamped models in China from 2009 to 2014.
Auto sales in China likely surged 44% to 13.5 million units last year. China has surpassed the U.S. as the world's largest auto market. Chinese automakers are expected to launch about 100 more new models in 2010.
