The i-Real is an improved version of its previous concepts PM, i-Unit and i-Swing. It can drive on two wheels on pedestrians road to use less space and on three wheels, with improved handling ability, on other roads with.

Local Demand

One of the highlights of the Auto China 2008 will be the launch of more and more joint-ventures's domestically built models to cater to local demand with accumulated engineering strength gained from Sino-foreign cooperation over the past few years.

Volkswagen's two Chinese ventures, Shanghai Volkswagen and FAW Volkswagen, will show off their first self-branded models.

Shanghai VW will unveil its new mid-class sedan, Lavida, which means life and hope in Spanish. The model is specially designed for the Chinese market under VW's global product strategy and will be a prototype for its next-generation model in the economy car sector. FAW VW will launch a new A-class sedan under the code name Model X.

Guangzhou Honda will also showcase its self-owned models, developed after the firm's investment of more than two billion yuan (US$280 million) in an R&D facility. It will also display a revamped Fit and a new Accord sedan.

Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp will present the world premiere of its Roewe 550 sedan. It is the first opportunity for SAIC to surprise its global rivals with the fruits of its own R&D capability.

Chery Automobile Co Ltd plans to bring a total of 29 models to Beijing, including a new model of Faira named after Fuwa, the mascot of China's Beijing Olympics.

Great Wall Motor has plans to exhibit more than 16 new models including the Kulla electric car, which will be able to travel 140 kilometers at 65 kilometers per hour on one charge.

Other new attractions will include a super-spacious Fine crossover, a lithium battery-powered Peri compact and a mini SUV. Chang'an Auto Group is expected to launch its self-developed sports car, powered by hydrogen, in addition to its HEV hybrid model.

(Shanghai Daily April 16, 2008)