Get to know the Chinese automakers

The Shanghai Auto Show was once a venue for the West to show off its cars to a country still relying on bicycles. This year, last week's event was a showcase for China's own industry as it overtakes the U.S. in market size.

Unable for now to break into Western markets, China's automakers are making inroads Latin America, the Middle East, Russia and Africa, exporting 680,700 cars in 2008. And at least one company, BYD, plans to sell an electric vehicle in the U.S. by 2011. Here is a bit about three of the top contenders to make the U.S. market.

Geely Automobile Holdings
Geely reintroduced itself at the show as the "New Geely" with six new car models, including one it called a "large business limousine."

Chery Automobile Co.
Chery introduced two new premium models, aiming to move upmarket after building its business on smaller sedans such as the popular QQ minicar.

BYD Auto
New darling BYD Auto, whose electric vehicle technology has attracted investment from Warren Buffett's company, Berkshire Hathaway Inc., had China's 10th best selling car last year with its F3 compact.