Imported Fiat models to sell in China in late Aug

Shanghai, August 11 (Gasgoo.com) Two imported Fiat models are expected to go on sale in China later this month, said a Fiat China insider last week, as cited by xinhuanet.com yesterday. If everything goes according to plan, this will bring the Italian automaker back to the Chinese auto market ten months after the ending of its partnership with Nanjing Auto.

The first batch of about 300 imported Fiat cars are going through customs formalities at Tianjian port and will go on sale first in Shenzhen on August 22, said the Chinese importer of Fiat vehicles. The first two imported Fiat models for sale in China are Linea and Bravo, and Grand Punch will go on sale in September. The three Fiat models will be priced at 148,800 yuan ($21,800) to 219,000 yuan in the China market.

Fiat has designated its first 26 dealerships, most located in and around the city of Nanjing, home to its former partner Nanjing Auto, and other eastern China's coastal cities. These stores are the refurbished Fiat outlets of the previous Nanjing-Fiat sales network. Fiat last December pulled out of its ailing passenger car joint venture with Nanjing Auto.

By selling imported Fiat cars in China, the Italian carmaker attempts to present itself in a brand-new image in this fast-growing market. If its imported vehicles sell well here, Fiat may consider making its cars locally with new Chinese partners.