In the latest edition of the Chinese crash test C-NCAP, the luxury model Geely Emgrand EC8 got five stars. Although for the observes this result is not surprising, it is worth to noting that thanks to the highest score 49,6 points set a new record for Chinese cars. Unfortunately, parameters of crash test in China are still less demanding for cars than in Europe. The main difference is a speed - 56 km/h instead of 64 km/h. For comparison, Peugeot 508 scored 49 points in China in the same edition of the tests.
The Chinese producer has ambitious plans for the European markets. After released of information about start of sales in UK, came the announcement of expansion in Italy. The sales of Asian brand will begin this year. Just as in Britain, initially will be offer only a four-door sedan with code EC7. The car will compete mainly with Skoda Octaivia. According to preliminary information, the basic version of the vehicle equipped with 1.5l 1006 hp petrol engine, ESP and airbags package should cost about EUR 12,000.
Geely is another Chinese brand which starts selling cars in Europe next year. The new owner of Volvo wants to crate a network of 40 dealership in UK by the end of 2012 - according to Automotive Management. Matthew Cheyne, Geely Auto UK market development director, told AM: “We’re looking for businesses that want to do things differently and as we look at potential partners we’ll want them to help shape how the franchise will be run before we launch.” - AM said.
Volvo Car Corp. styling chief Peter Horbury is moving to the Swedish automaker's sister brand, Geely Group, as senior vice president of design - we can read in service autonewschina.com. He began his career with the Swedish automaker in 1991 as head of design, helping to create new models such as the XC90 crossover before he moved in 2002 to Ford's Premier Automotive Group. There, he oversaw design at Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo - autonewschina.com said.