A series of recent moves by Daimler Chrysler AG in China indicates that the German-US automaker is adjusting its strategy here to sharpen its competitive edge in the world's last big automotive market.
With 12 brands under its umbrella, the auto giant is bringing its passenger car and commercial vehicle products and services to the Chinese market by providing imported vehicles and through manufacturing projects.
The latest move was the official launch of its Chrysler Grand Voyager in Beijing last week.
Earlier this month, Daimler Chrysler signed an agreement with its Chinese partners to support and secure the future development of Yaxing-Benz Ltd (YBL), China's largest joint-venture company in the bus industry.
According to the terms of the deal, YBL becomes the centre for Daimler Chrysler non-city Mercedes-Benz bus activities in China. YBL is the sole partner of Daimler Chrysler for Mercedes-Benz brand buses in China.
Daimler Chrysler will introduce a new generation of Mercedes-Benz non-city buses into YBL. In addition, all affiliated companies within Jiangsu Yaxing Motor Coach Group Ltd, YBL's Chinese shareholder, will have a clear product separation with YBL to avoid competition.
(China Daily September 27, 2002)
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