Two opportunity-seeking Des Moines-area car dealers are gearing up for potentially major roles in bringing Chinese cars to American consumers.
Now, they just need something to bring.
Gene Gabus, second-generation patriarch of a family that's dominated Iowa auto sales for years, believes his team may be ready to offer cheap, fuel-efficient Shuanghuan Nobles early next year. A Gabus business associate said the group hopes to sell between 20,000 and 25,000 Noble G4s in America in 2010. A big chunk of those sales will be shaped by Gabus, who stands to control the flow of Noble cars for 27 states, stretching from Ohio to California.
"I think it's going to be big all over," Gabus said of the car he showed off at the Iowa State Fair. "If this car comes it at $12,900, where's its competition? The used-car market? That's a heck of a used car for $12,900, with a warranty."
Holmes pursuing, too
Meanwhile, Max Holmes, a Hyundai and Chevrolet dealer who's spent four years pursuing Chinese vehicles, is banking on a different strategy. Holmes said he's assembled his own network of 63 dealers in 16 states for a plan to distribute as-of-yet-unnamed Chinese cars. He continues to chase the possibility of a cheaper version of the mid-size, four-door sedan that American drivers love.
"It's better to be best than first," Holmes said shortly after betting a doughnut that Gabus won't be selling Chinese cars in January. "I would be surprised, only because I know that it takes a long time to get these vehicles certified."
Gabus considers Holmes a nonplayer: "Mr. Holmes isn't doing anything," Gabus said last week. "I keep telling you that."
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