GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group) Motor has officially released its first high-end multi-purpose vehicle, the GM8, onto the Chinese market at a product release event held at the Mangrove Tree International Convention Center in Sanya.
The market release of the MPV is described as a ‘major milestone’ for GAC Motor, as it claims it has become the first Chinese automaker to cover the mid- to high-end sedan, SUV and MPV markets.
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The company’s first large-scale MPV model, the GM8 is developed on GAC Motor’s C-Class platform and measures 5 metres in length (3-metre-long wheelbase). The seven-seat MPV is designed to meet the growing demand from Chinese consumers for a better driving experience. Its target consumers will be ‘high-end elites who demand quality and safety for their family’.
“Demand has been growing in the Chinese auto market for a spacious and practical MPV that can accommodate both business and family needs,” said Yu Jun, President of GAC Motor. “With our new GM8, GAC Motor will not only meet, but will redefine the standards of the high-end Chinese MPV market.”
GAC says the MPV GM8 completes its line of luxury C-Class vehicles which also includes the GA8 sedan and GS8 SUV. The company achieved a 38.9% year-on-year increase from January to November in 2017 and met its target of annual sales volume of 500,000 for the year.
GAC is aiming for 1m sales a year by 2020 and says it will continue to expand its global R&D network to develop more vehicles with cutting-edge technology and ‘advance sustainable mobility’. The company will further introduce four new models into the market in 2018, offering customers a ‘wider choice with premium driving experience. It will release another mid- to high-end MPV by the end of 2018, which will be more focused on family use’.
“The company’s strategic goal is to create a world-class brand that excels in research, manufacturing, and sales,” said Yu Jun. “In the future, GAC Motor will continue to offer an automotive experience with enhanced vitality and creativity to our global customers.”
GAC Motor is expected to return to North America International Auto Show (NAIAS) in 2018 with its entire line-up of vehicles and an all-electric concept car.
It also plans to enter the North American market ‘no later than 2019’.
