- GM will put more than two dozen new models into its China lineup in the next two years.
- GM's 2011 Chevrolet Volt will be introduced into China next year
- China is currently the world's largest auto market.
SHANGHAI, China — General Motors plans to nearly double its models with 25 new and upgraded cars in China over the next two years, including fuel-efficient technologies.
The U.S. carmaker's decision to accelerate the introduction of new models underscores its ambitions to drive up sales in China, currently the world's largest auto market, while establishing itself as an important player in green vehicles after emerging from bankruptcy last year.
GM said that, by 2011, it will increase the application of turbochargers, advanced engine management systems and class-leading aerodynamics to further improve the fuel efficiency of its locally produced passenger cars.
This would include a small turbocharged engine and advanced transmission system that could save fuel consumption by 7-9 percent, in addition to electric power steering, start-stop systems and hybrid systems to improve fuel efficiency by up to 15 percent.
"GM has demonstrated its commitment to helping drivers go farther on every tank of gas by introducing state-of-the-art powertrain and vehicle technologies that significantly reduce the fuel consumption of our products built and sold in China," said Kevin Wale, president and managing director of General Motors China Group.
GM's upcoming 2011 Chevrolet Volt will be introduced into China next year, following its official debut in the United States this year.
GM, the biggest international carmaker in China, sold 1.82 million units last year with a year-on-year growth rate of 68 percent. It is targeting 2 million units this year.
Inside Line says: GM solidifies its already staggering commitment to China. — Vivian Jin, Correspondent
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