Nissan and Subaru distributor to sell China cars too

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Singapore-based motor group Tan Chong International has secured a Chinese car distributorship for five countries, despite misgivings about China-made vehicles.

The company, known for its Nissan and Subaru franchises, has clinched the rights to represent Changan Automobile in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Executive director Glenn Tan told The Straits Times this week that he is confident Changan cars will pass muster here.

There have been doubts raised in several markets in recent years over the quality of Chinese cars, but Mr Tan was certain Changan was different.

"I've seen the car, and it's pretty well-made. Not up there with the Japanese, but certainly better than most Chinese cars," he said.

The first model will be the Honor seven-seater, which Mr Tan said is likely to be priced at the same level as an entry-level Toyota Vios subcompact.

Changan is state-owned - its parent is part of the Chinese military - and ranks as one of China's top carmakers. It has 15 plants in Chongqing, Beijing, Jiangsu, Hebei, Zhejiang and Jiangxi that can produce two million vehicles and two million engines a year. The firm also has research and development facilities in Turin, Yokohama, Nottingham and Detroit.

Elsewhere, TCIL's expansion plans are gathering speed. Its Subaru franchise in 10 markets will sell 15,000 cars this year, and its Fuso truck business in Thailand will see sales doubling this year.

Assembly of the Subaru XV sports-utility vehicle in its Malaysian plant starts in December. It will supply cars to Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia.