Shanghai, May 17 (Gasgoo.com) In an effort to enhance the Chevrolet brand, Shanghai GM has decided to introduce the next-generation Chevrolet Spark model later this year, a model different from the current version produced and sold by SAIC-GM-Wuling, media reported last week.

Shanghai GM, General Motors flagship car-making venture in China with Chinese auto giant SAIC Motor, recently showcased at the 2010 Beijing auto show with 28 Cadillac, Buick and Chevrolet models, including the Chevrolet Volt MPV5 concept, the Cadillac Converj concept and the plug-in hybrid Cadillac XTS concept.

The old Chevrolet Spark has been produced and sold by SAIC-GM-Wuling, GM's mini-vehicle venture in China with SAIC Motor and Liuzhou Wuling Automobile. After introducing the new Spark model, Shanghai GM will become the exclusive manufacturer and seller of the Chevrolet brand in China, said a Search-Autoparts.com report.

SAIC-GM-Wuling will no longer use Spark as its trademark for its Spark model, which will instead use the "Lechi" logo. The company is seeking new growth chances by introducing Wuling Hong Guang, its first compact business vehicle featuring a new look and modern interior design.

As a leader in China's mini-van market, SAIC-GM-Wuling expects to sell 1.23 million vehicles this year, up 16%. For this target, Wuling-brand vehicles may sell 1.15 million units, and Chevrolet Spark (Lechi) car sales may come to 80,000.

Shanghai GM sold 320,000 vehicles in the first four months, up 88.4% year on year. Its sales in April increased 62% to 89,562 units, with sales of the Chevrolet and the Cadillac brands sales doubling from a year earlier.

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