BAIC to use Hong Kong Saab regional name for C70G

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai August 16) - BAIC is getting ready to sell its first independent own-brand car built on a Saab platform, the C70G, later this year. In a report appearing on the Beijing Times today, confirmed that BAIC will make use of Saab's regional Chinese name in Hong Kong and Macau, Shenbao, for the new car.

In 2009, although BAIC succeeded in purchasing various pieces of Saab technology, they were unable to acquire the rights to the Saab name. By using the Shenbao name, BAIC hopes to draw a link between their new products and the defunct Swedish manufacturer. BAIC officials stated that the manufacturer has already successfully registered the Shenbao name, which is confirmed by an entry on the State Administration for Industry and Commerce's China Trademark Website (pictured below).

The C70G (pictured above) is the first BAIC car to be based on Saab technology. There are reports that it will be sold as the Shenbao D280. There is no confirmation on whether or not the Shenbao moniker will be used for future Saab-based vehicles. The C70G will be part of a planned lineup of over 20 models ranging from minis and compacts to SUVs and crossovers.