Shanghai 2009: Chang'An CD101 debuts, looks production-friendly
Chang'An Motors CD101 - Click above for high-res gallery
Chang'An Motors has rolled out its CD101 concept in Shanghai, and while we don't have much more than images to show you of this car yet, it could offer a glimpse as to what China's fourth largest automaker hopes to bring to the world's markets in the not-too-distant future.
Chang'An, Ford's Chinese-market partner, is understood to be one of the parties negotiating with the Blue Oval regarding a possible purchase of Volvo, and its officials have already gone on record saying that they are actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions in order to expand their global footprint, and the company has reportedly already signed a deal with Autopark Mexico to begin production of 50,000 units in Mexico next year. Could a production version of the CD101 be part of that expansionary initiative? Only time (and Chang'An spokespeople) will tell.
Sadly, we don't have any additional word on what sort of drivetrain lurks underneath the CD101's mid-size skin, but we'll be sure to pass along more details as they become available. For the time being, check out the gallery below.
Gallery: Shanghai 2009:changan CD101 Concept
[Source: Autoblog Simplified Chinese]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Shipey 4:06PM (4/20/2009)
Wow, that's actually... quite attractive!
Definitely the first time I've had that reaction to a Chinese design. Ever.
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Mike P. 4:32PM (4/20/2009)
I like the lower rear treatment (the faux-diffuser area). Fairly unique.
I think they should choose a nicer colour to show it off in. This paint doesn't seem to have much lustre.
PumaGTO 5:46PM (4/20/2009)
Agreed. A chinese car... That looks good and not a rip-off ?!? What´s next... Hyunday joining F1 ? Audi losing at LeMans?
nanotech 12:14AM (4/21/2009)
i am amazed and in shock how far the chinese have come already. i think this year's shanghai autoshow could very well mark the point of inflection in terms of chinese auto design. it's very possible that they are bypassing / leaping a few steps from pathetic copycatters to leading designers. wow... then again, if i simply remind myself to just pause and reflect on the history of creative designs in ancient chinese cultures, i guess i shouldn't be surprised.
asng15 12:28AM (4/21/2009)
they learned so quick...........they are coming...........
Sektor 7:45AM (4/21/2009)
The front lights make it look like it's got cataract or something. But I like the design (minus the grille).
Taglane 4:10PM (4/20/2009)
Okay it's kind of hot.
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Tang 4:11PM (4/20/2009)
Am I the only one in thinking that it kinda resembles a Mazda6?
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LimeDaiquiri 4:13PM (4/20/2009)
Yes.
Sektor 4:13PM (4/20/2009)
It could possibly have Mazda influences since Chang'An has a joint venture with Mazda in China.
kwsdurango 4:12PM (4/20/2009)
Looks a lot like a BMW, even the wheels...
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The FedEx Man 4:18PM (4/20/2009)
Looks a merger of a Opel Insignia and that Citroen GT proto. Very cool, but could do with a nicer grille.
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Biomech 4:18PM (4/20/2009)
The rear looks really good, almost a futuristic 3-series look. Front is still a bit ehh.
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Protzenegger 4:22PM (4/20/2009)
Not bad at all. Still not as harmonious as a Roewe, but very nice. I'm liking what I see at this show, although I hear Chang'An outsources much of their design to Torino Design and I.DE.A, so this might well have been done in Italy.
That said, even Geely is getting better now. If only Great Wall could follow their example...
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Swede 4:31PM (4/20/2009)
THE CHINESE ARE COMING!
*hides under desk*
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joe23521 4:43PM (4/20/2009)
Very well-proportioned. I like...
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caddy-v 5:23PM (4/20/2009)
It's a Mazcammalfusbmopgenaltcitjunkaboo.
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P.V. 5:40PM (4/20/2009)
It's inoffensive, but I'm not digging the overall look.
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Jruhi4 6:07PM (4/20/2009)
I see a LOT of current Lexus ES 350 in that design.
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izorro 6:31PM (4/20/2009)
It reminds me of Apple...especially the headlights with that white glow...
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