Official

GM celebrates launch of new small pickup - for China

General Motors has launched its new Kuncheng pickup at the Changchun International Automobile Fair in Changchun, Jilin, China. The first model from FAW-GM's new manufacturing facility in Changchun, the Kuncheng (best translated as 'Earth Journey') promises a better interior, more cargo capacity, improved handling, more modern styling and a priority on safety technology.

According to GM, the four-door truck will offer both 2.2-liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines in either gasoline or diesel formats. The powerplants are equipped with "unique combustion, air-changing, lubrication and cooling technologies to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize emissions while generating low levels of noise," says GM (without elaborating).

The automaker does define the safety equipment, citing anti-lock brakes and a "front impact-absorbing structure and four-door impact steel beams (to) help minimize damage in the event of a collision. Among the other safety features are three-point seat belts in front, a collapsible steering column, child-proof doors in back and a center high-mounted stop lamp."

Not the sexiest of machines, then, but likely a capable workhorse.
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Shanghai – FAW-GM officially launched the Kuncheng pickup today at the Changchun International Automobile Fair in Changchun, Jilin.

The new model from thejoint venture of FAW and GM China is targeted at small and medium enterprises, private companies and individual business people in China's second-and third-tier cities.

"We see strong potential in China's pickupmarket," said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM ChinaGroup. "The Kuncheng has been developed to global standards for performance and quality to meet the needs as well as the expectations of domestic buyers."

Four variants and a choice of a gasoline or diesel engine are available, with a retail price starting at about RMB 60,000. FAW-GM has begun taking orders. Deliveries will begin this fall.

The Kuncheng incorporates an SUV-like design that shows off its stylish features. Its large front bumper and chrome grille are complemented by integrated diamond crystal headlamps and diamond fog lamps, giving it an impressive look.

The Kuncheng's sturdy cargo box is 480 mm in height. This is 100 mm taller than boxes in traditional pickups, enabling it to accommodate over 20 percent more cargo volume.

Inside, the driver-oriented layout is simple yet elegant,comfortable but not constraining. With a spacious foldable back seat, the Kuncheng can meet the varying needs of users. Front and rear power windows, power rearview mirrors and central power locks come standard.

The Kuncheng's 2.2-liter and 2.4-liter engines include unique combustion, air-changing, lubrication and cooling technologies to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize emissions while generating low levels of noise. They also include an electro-thermal plug cylinder with pre-heating technology. This ensures smooth starts at temperatures as low as -25 degrees. The highly reliable engine shave a long service life.

Safety is also a priority. The SABS system in the Kuncheng allocates front or rear braking force automatically based on load status to prevent the brakes from locking up. The design of the front impact-absorbing structure and four-door impact steel beams help minimize damage in the event of a collision.Among the other safety features are three-point seat belts in front, a collapsible steering column,child-proof doors in back and a center high-mounted stop lamp.

The Kuncheng is the initial vehicle from FAW-GM's new manufacturing facility in Changchun. The plant has adopted GM's Global Manufacturing System and advanced quality control systems as well as FAW's proven manufacturing expertise.

FAW-GM is adopting a new sales system, with sales and service integrated to ensure a convenient buying and ownership experience for customers in both urban and rural areas.

FAW-GM Light Duty Commercial Vehicle Co. Ltd. is a 50-50 joint venture between GM China and China FAW Group Corp. (FAW). It was launched on August 30,2009, and is based in Changchun, Jilin. It is focused on the production and sale of light duty trucks and vans. The joint venture operates manufacturing facilities in Harbin, Heilongjiang; Changchun, Jilin; and Qujing, Yunnan. FAW-GM sold 88,224vehicles in Chinain 2010.

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