The General Motors China Group
recently reported another sales record for the first nine months
of 2006 (645,680 vehicles). These record sales are driven by
Buick (+ 27.8 percent), Chevrolet (+51.0 percent), Cadillac
(+27.1 percent) and Wuling (+38.7 percent), China's number one
brand of mini-vehicles. At "Auto China 2006", this year's
international motor show in Beijing, Shanghai GM is showcasing
new models such as the Cadillac SLS and Escalade. In addition,
an important new offering from the Wuling brand is to be
premiered. Furthermore, GM concept cars such as the Saab Aero-X,
Buick Enclave and Chevrolet WTCC Ultra will make their public
debuts in China.
GM's luxury brand, Cadillac has
enjoyed remarkable success since its introduction to the China
luxury market in 2004. The Cadillac China portfolio, consisting
of the CTS sedan, the XLR roadster and the SRX crossover, will
now be complimented with the all-new SLS and the Escalade SUV.
Based on the STS sport sedan, the SLS has been lengthened by
100mm to add rear seat legroom. The interior is designed to meet
specific local needs in this primarily chauffeur-driven luxury
segment. Three engine options will be available which include
the 2.8L V6, a 3.6L V6 and the top-level Northstar 4.6L V8 with
239kW/320hp. The new SLS will be built at the Shanghai GM plant
for the Chinese market.
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"The Cadillac SLS is a very
important addition to our line-up in China as it meets very
specific market needs," said Jim Taylor, general manager of
Cadillac. "Cadillac reacts to country specific requirements and
is proud to offer the SLS to Chinese luxury customers who demand
extra space in the rear and other features." Earlier this year,
Cadillac introduced the new BLS sedan in Europe and other
international markets to satisfy the need for a smaller Cadillac
model and a turbodiesel engine option.
"The Cadillac SLS is a strategic addition
for the Cadillac brand in China, which will enable Cadillac to
strengthen its presence in the luxury sedan market," said Mr. Ding Lei,
president of Shanghai GM.
"The new Cadillac SLS and Escalade as well
as the new offering from Wuling will strengthen our position as the
market leader in China. GM's multi-brand approach in China enables us to
successfully compete in all important segments of the fastest growing
market in the world. I am looking forward to finishing 2006 as another
year of record growth for GM in China," said Kevin Wale, president and
managing director of the GM China Group.
