China, when put into figures, is an almightily impressive country. It has a population of over 1.35 billion people; covers 9.6 million square kilometres; housed one of the world’s earliest ancient civilisations, is the world’s 2nd largest economy; has the world’s largest standing army. It’s fair to say that China doesn’t do things quietly or by halves.
This month saw the opening of the annual Beijing International Automotive Exhibition where more than a thousand vehicles from the world’s leading car manufacturers will be showcased. With an expected attendance of around 120,000 visitors per day, Chinese police officials will have all hands on deck at the China International Exhibition Center for the ten day event.
We’ve teamed up with Taronis Motor Salvage to take a look at the lure the event brings.
China’s Pinnacle Car Show
‘Auto China 2014’is not just a parade ground for the latest, greatest and most innovative models around, but is also a chance for car manufacturers to secure lucrative Chinese investors and dealerships.
Journalists and spectators have been lucky enough to witness the unveiling of such premier models like Rolls Royce’s Pinnacle Travel Phantom and the latest Bugatti Veyron Type 18 ‘Black Bess’ – only 3 of these will be made.
With the total length of all public roads in China reaching 3,984,000 km, the Chinese motor industry is on course to overtake their counterparts, the United States, as the largest premium car market by 2016. This means that cars of every type – SUV’s, Hatchbacks, Hybrids, Electric and Luxury – will be in even greater demand as manufacturers look to capitalise on a high demand market.
So What Can We Expect?
BMW – Vision Future Luxury
Referred to as the 9-Series, German giants BMW unveiled their new luxury concept sedan aimed to get those wealthy Chinese businessmen foraging into their pockets. Oozing class and sophistication, the luxury model features front and rear opening doors for ease of access.
Mercedes Benz – Concept Coupe SUV
As one of the oldest car manufacturers around, Mercedes Benz understand that profits that can be made in the Chinese market. Unveiling its new Concept Coupe SUV, they are looking to yield from a modern and stylish new model.
Nissan – Q30 & Low Emmision Zero
Nissan pride themselves on their innovation. Their Q30 concept car for their ultra-luxury Infiniti range is a combination of coupe, hatch and crossover – a fusion of style and performance. At the other end of the scale, their focus on low emission driving is captured in the Zero boasting intriguing design and impressive statistics.
Denza – Diamler and BYD Joint Venture (E)
One of the most talked about cars of the show, the electric powered Denza focuses on the commercial and mainstream needs of the average Joe.
FAW Group – Hongqi L5
Another luxury model, Chinese car manufacturer FAW Group showcased their 5 million Yuan luxury Hongqi L5. Big, Bold and Brash.
General Motors – Chevrolet Cruze
General motors plan to open 5 new factories in China, only demonstrating the lure of the Chinese market and will raise the production capacity of its vehicles to a staggering 5 million by 2015. With this in mind, the latest edition of the Chevrolet Cruze gave potential buyers a glimpse at what the future holds.
Ford – 50 Years of the Mustang
One of the most iconic vehicles ever to be manufactured, the Ford Mustang celebrates 50 years of production. Ford celebrated this by displaying an impeccable 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible that brought back the years. Simply beautiful.
These cars, as well as thousands of others, are on show till the 29th April.
This post was contributed by Phil Warrington, a keen car blogger, in association with Taronis Motor Salvage, the UK’s number 1 place for quality used car parts.
