Beijing Benz 2010 sales expected to hit 50,000 units, up 179%

Shanghai December 6 (Gasgoo.com) Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd, a joint venture between Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co (BAIC) and Daimler AG, said its sales will increase 179% from a year earlier to roughly 50,000 units this year, and are expected to grow more than 60% next year based on 2010 figures, the Beijing News reported Monday.

Moreover, the German automaker Daimler will likely to produce its Mercedes-Benz GLK crossover in China in 2011, the News said.

Beijing Benz will accelerate adjustment to its product line-up in the next few years. It has so far launched three long wheelbase E-Class models in China: the Mercedes-Benz E260L CGI elegant type, E260L CGI fashion type, and E 300 L, along with the Mercedes-Benz C180, now the best-selling domestically made C-Class car. In addition, It plans to launch the Mercedes-Benz GLS E300L fashion type, E200L CGI elegant type and other models to further enrich its product line.

Daimler has also developed plans to invest 3 billion euros ($4.2 billion) in China by 2015 to boost production of Mercedes-Benz cars in the world's biggest auto market. It aims to increase sales in the Asian country to 300,000 units a year in the next five years, compared with an estimated 120,000 units in 2010, global chief executive Dieter Zetsche said earlier.

At present, Beijing Benz has completed reconstruction of its second plant, which already works on two shifts. The company will then proceed with vehicle plant expansion and building a new engine plant.