Showcasing the Chang’an CV11 Minivan

The Chang’an CV11, launched by Ford’s partner Chang’an Motor in China and Suzuki, is the latest offering of domesticated, homegrown Chinese vehicle innovations. The new CV11 is a seven-seater that runs on a twin camshaft 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The minivan is designed by Italian firm IDEA and developed by the Chinese automaker in-house. The CV11 was actually first displayed as a concept car at the 2003 Shanghai Auto Show.

Chang’an Motor has three joint ventures to build automobiles with Chinese, Japanese and Western Auto Companies and plans to build models for domestic markets and exports in the future. And thanks for being affiliated to Ford, Chang’an Ford was formed. The Chinese company has set its intentions ready for the Ford Focus, Fiesta and Mondeo production. Also the company, a former affiliate of the People's Liberation Army, said it plans to export 100,000 vehicles a year by 2010. The company is currently building a new factory in Nanjing to build Mazda cars.

Last year, Chang’an assembled more than 700,000 vehicles (makes you think that the Chinese are really very competent and industrious people). About half of the produced vehicles and its auto body parts were in partnership with Ford and Suzuki.

Chang’an’s joint ventures to various automotive brands:

•Chang’an Suzuki – 1992 – present – with Suzuki Motors •Chang’an Ford – 2001 – present – with Ford Motor Company •Chang’an Ford Mazda Engine – 2005 – present – produces engines with Mazda •With Jiangling Motors – produces the Jiangling Landwind SUV

So far, we just have to anticipate good wholesome vehicles from this Chinese automaker. I’m sure it won’t be long for most big automotive companies to take on importing small cars from its Chinese affiliate. Who knows?