SAIC revs up to enter Europe

Shanghai Automotive Industries Corporation (SAIC) revs up its entrance  into the European market. Small volumes of its Roewe 750 are expected to export to Europe in 2008, and the W261 will be introduced to Europe in 2009.

Sources reveal that SAIC's European scheme comprises two steps---first to export its domestically-made sedans under Ssangyong's marque through the Korean subsidiary's dealership network; ---secondly, to set up an independent network of Roewe dealers from 2010.

Ssangyong's European distribution companies, including Berge Automocion in Madrid, Spain, Kroymans in Holland, Italy's largest private import company Koelliker group are close to be the first ones to sell SAIC's own-branded vehicles. SAIV refuse to comment, saying the company is just talking with the dealers on the network-building.

Although the W261's English brand is still unknown, its debut at the Shanghai motor show last month steals the limelight. The mass-production version of the concept car will be available in China at the end of this year. Targeting the European market, this model is delicately designed.