GM to Launch 18 Models in China in 2017
The newly launched Cadillac CT6 Plug-In Hybrid will cost $80,000 to $94,000 in the People’s Republic of China
Today General Motors announced that it will be launching 18 new and refreshed models in China this year, in order for the American automaker to achieve continued growth in its largest retail market.
Half of the new models that will be introduced in 2017 will be SUVs or MPVs, released under the Buick, Chevy, Cadillac, Baojun, and Wuling brands. GM is hoping to build on last year’s sales of 3.87 million vehicles.
The Detroit-based car company remains on track to fulfill its commitment to roll out over 60 new and refreshed vehicles in the Chinese marketplace from 2016 to 2020. That previously announced total includes the 13 models launched last year.
“2017 will be an even better year for General Motors in China,” said GM Executive Vice President and President of GM China Matt Tsien. “We will continue to create safer, simpler and better ways for customers to move about productively and enjoyably.’’
GM says it will focus on bringing to the market more new energy vehicles this year. In 2016, the company introduced the Buick LaCrosse Hybrid, Chevrolet Malibu XL Hybrid, and Cadillac CT6 Plug-In Hybrid.
GM is also committed to further enhancing its local manufacturing capability in Chin, with SAIC-GM’s Wuhan plant phase II set to begin operation this year. SAIC-GM’s battery assembly plant in Shanghai will also begin producing battery packs for the company’s expanded offering of electrified vehicles in 2016.
Shanghai will also be the location of the new R&D facility being opened by GM’s Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) joint venture this year. The site will include an advanced design and styling center, a vehicle engineering facility, and a small-scale wind tunnel. The facility will be dedicated vehicle development and engineering team.
GM says that it will also continue exploring new opportunities along the automotive industry value chain, including connectivity through Shanghai OnStar, automotive financing through SAIC-GMAC, and automotive insurance through INSAIC.
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