Beijing 007: 2010 Beijing Auto Show

BEIJING — Beijing Auto Works, known in China as Beiqi or simply by its acronym BAW, is unveiling a new midsize utility vehicle at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show. It appears to represent a dramatic departure from the company's roots as a manufacturer of military vehicles.

BAW, which in the past has partnered with Jeep in China, is showing the new Beijing 007, a far cry from such military-based vehicles as the old BJ212 that once were staples of the brand. In its pre-show press material, the company describes the 007 as "a non-camouflage model... a kind of fashion-statement conversion from the military."

In fact, the 007 resembles a knockoff of the Jeep Liberty. Portrayed by the company as "a mainstream urban SUV," the Beijing 007 is aimed at such domestic rivals as the Chery Rely X5, the Geely Gleagle GX7 and the JAC B-SUV.

The 007 is expected to launch with 2.0- and 2.4-liter gasoline engines. Prices will start at around $21,000.

Inside Line says: Interesting way to tie together the company's military background with evocations of Ian Fleming's James Bond. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent