Chinese automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. plans to be on the main floor of the 2017 North American International Auto Show after a one-year hiatus.
DETROIT, MI - Chinese automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. plans to be on the main floor of the 2017 North American International Auto Show after a one-year hiatus.
GAC Group was last at the show in 2015, when it revealed its GS4 SUV in the concourse area of the Cobo Center. It also showed off its GA6 Limited sedan and a WITSTAR Concept vehicle.
At the time, the company said it aimed to begin doing business in North America in 2017. In a Monday release from NAIAS, it was clear the company hopes to connect with automakers and suppliers at the forthcoming Detroit auto show, as well as garner more attention.
"GAC Motor's market share in China increased following the world debut of the GS4 two years ago and was a direct result of the international coverage we received," Zeng Qinghong, Vice Chairman President of GAC Group, said in the release. "As we look to establish ourselves as a global brand we are optimistic we can gain more momentum following the announcements we will make this coming January in Detroit."
The company works with several major automakers, such as a partnership in China with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
That venture, known as GAC FCA, began producing the Jeep Cherokee in China for local markets in October 2015, and more recently it launched the Jeep Renegade there.
Now in its 29th year as an international event, the 2017 NAIAS is expected to attract more than 5,000 journalists from 60 countries to its press preview days Jan. 9-10. Industry preview days are set for Jan. 11-12 and the show will be open to the public Jan. 14-22.
"GAC Group's return to NAIAS is very exciting for our show as it underscores the significant coverage and impact automakers receive in markets across the globe when unveiling products at our show," said Sam Slaughter, 2017 NAIAS Chairman.
David Muller is the automotive and business reporter for MLive Media Group in Detroit. Email him at dmuller@mlive.com, follow him on Twitter or find him on Facebook.