Motorcycle maker to make first SUV model in '09

Shanghai, March 13 (Gasgoo.com) China's motorcycle and automotive manufacturer Lifan Group plans to start production of its first SUV model by the end of this year, the Xinhua news agency reported today.

Chairman Yin Mingshan said Lifan plans to produce the model in its facility located in Inner Mongolia of China as of the end of this year. The SUV will be powered by Lifan's independently developed 1.6 L engine, delivering 78kW and 137Nm of torque. Gasoline and natural-gas-powered editions will be available after their launch.

With a body length of 4,550 mm, width of 1,705 mm, and 1,405 in height, the vehicle offers ample room for friends and families, said the report.

Lifan, which has made a name for itself as a maker of motorcycles as well as truck and bus engines, began automobile production in 2006.

Last year American International Group bought a 13.5 percent stake in Lifan.