Chinese hitting the U.S. car market

For the fourth time, GAC Motor will be presenting a few models at the Detroit Auto Show This time around, they mean business as the manufacturer has confirmed its entry into the U.S. market.

The GAC flagship model, the GM8 minivan, “represents the highest level of independent research and development (R&D) capabilities.” What we understand in that statement is that the vehicle is probably technologically up to date. Under the hood, there’s a turbocharged, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that develops about 200 horsepower.

On display at the show is also the GA8 large luxury sedan that should be equipped by a turbocharged, 2.0-litre four that develops 194 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, matched to a six-speed automatic. The car is said to consume an average 7.9 L/100 km. According to GAC, its cockpit, which includes a refrigerated compartment for the rear-seat occupants, is a “noble and exclusive space that helps you make good decisions.”

Also in Detroit will be a new electric car concept that targets a younger audience in the United States.

Guangzhou Automobile Group Motor Co. sold more than 460,000 vehicles around the globe last year, a 39% increase over the previous year. The company should start selling vehicles in the United States by 2019.

Another interesting detail is that elsewhere in the world, these vehicles are sold under the brand Trumpchi. Should the automaker consider a name change for the U.S. market? Maybe if they sit inside the GA8’S cockpit for a while, they’ll end up making a good decision.