DaimlerChrysler to Import Chinese-Built Chryslers to North America?

GM doesn't advertise that its popular new Aveo subcompact, also sold as the Pontiac Wave and Suzuki Sprint+, is made in South

GM doesn't advertise that its popular new Aveo subcompact is made in South Korea in its GMDAT plant. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

Korea in its GMDAT plant. Essentially it's a Daewoo, as are the bowtie division's Optra and Epica models.

Also, the world's largest automaker already uses Chinese-made 3.4-litre V6 engines in its Chevy Equinox, as it will in the upcoming Pontiac Torrent. The deal involves Shanghai GM, the automaker's Chinese division, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp., and CAMI Automotive Inc, the domestic automaker's Canadian-based joint venture with Suzuki Motor Co. of Japan.

"This is a further example of how GM's global alliance and partnership strategy are giving us the flexibility to use existing capacity at facilities like Shanghai GM for the benefit of car buyers in other parts of the

GM already uses Chinese-made 3.4-litre V6 engines in its Chevy Equinox, as it will in the upcoming Pontiac Torrent. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

world," commented Philip Murtaugh, chairman and chief executive officer of GM's China operation when the deal was struck in 2002.

Shanghai GM's president Chen Hong commented, in a November 5, 2002 report by China.org.cn, that the joint-venture engine exports would be an important step towards the joint venture's goal to become a globally competitive automaker.

"Only by becoming part of the worldwide automotive industry and using our parent companies' strengths can Shanghai GM and China's automotive industry thrive in the face of growing competition," Chen said.