China's Chery preps crossover for U.S., Europe

FRANKFURT -- China's Chery Automobile teased the design for a new crossover it says it plans to sell in Europe and the U.S. as part of its global expansion plans.

The company says the concept will showcase Chery's new design language aimed at "young, urban, forward-thinking customers who choose sophisticated, high quality products."

Former General Motors and Ford Motor designer James Hope, who is setting up Chery's new design and r&d center in Europe, is overseeing the automaker's new styling direction.

Chery will unveil a concept for the car, code-named the M31T, at the Frankfurt auto show on Sept. 12. The M31T is based on Chery's M3X platform.

Chery said it is debuting the car in Frankfurt to demonstrate its strength on a larger stage in Europe and to present its global strategy.

The company said it is evaluating the sales opportunity in key markets including retail and fleet channels.

Chery said in an Aug. 16 release that the M31T's debut will mark its first step toward entering European and American markets.

Chery sold over 700,000 vehicles last year, a 28 percent year-on-year rise. Of these about 100,000 vehicles were exported to markets outside of China including Russia, North Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.

The automaker plans to establish a European sales operation in co-operation with import and distribution partners.

Chery's expansion plans come as the automaker is seeking to end its connection with Qoros Automotive, a Chinese brand that had targeted expansion in Europe. Chery has been unsuccessful in finding a buyer for the 25.5 percent stake it holds in Qoros, according to a report by Automotive News China, a sister publication of Automotive News Europe.