- Mercedes-Benz has added production of the GLK crossover to its China joint venture.
- With sales this year of more than 20,000 GLKs, China has become one of the most important global markets for the compact crossover.
- Mercedes-Benz and its local partner Beijing Auto are investing $2.7 billion to expand their joint venture.
BEIJING — As part of an ongoing $2.7 billion of their China joint venture, Mercedes-Benz and local partner Beijing Auto have begun assembling the Mercedes-Benz GLK here at the Beijing Benz Automotive plant.
With sales this year of more than 20,000 GLKs, China has become one of the most important global markets for the compact crossover, according to Mercedes-Benz.
The German automaker said it expects that two-thirds of the cars it sells in China by 2015 will be produced locally. Beijing Benz Automotive also assembles the C-Class and the long-wheelbase E-Class.
Under the terms of an agreement signed in June, Mercedes-Benz and Beijing Auto plan to expand their partnership to include development of future "new energy" vehicles, including hybrids and electric cars; local assembly in 2013 of the next-generation A-Class and B-Class compacts; local production in 2013 of four-cylinder engines; and construction of a new R&D center.
Inside Line says: One of Europe's top automakers continues to broaden its relationship with one of China's most important state-owned companies.
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