Skoda plans independent brand image in China
Updated: 2015-03-09 07:55
By Li Fusheng in Geneva(China Daily)
|
|||||||||||
All-new Skoda Superb. [Photo provided to China Daily] |
The model's design was also a highlight at the Volkswagen Group Night on the eve of the 2015 Geneva auto show as it demonstrates Skoda's emotional strength.
The use of Volkswagen Group's modular transverse matrix, or the MQB, complements its dynamic appearance. It also has more extensive safety systems, better connectivity and lower emissions than before.
"Its outstanding design and technical qualities and unbeatable interior space make our flagship the new benchmark in our competitive environment," Vahland said.
Since 2001, the Superb has been at the top of the Skoda model range. Since then, the car manufacturer has delivered more than 700,000 first- and second-generation Superbs to customers, making the car one of the most popular vehicles in its class.
"We intend to offer the best vehicles in our business sectors, to show the quality, tradition and future orientation of our brand and to increase Skoda's appeal. We are proud of our vehicles and we wish to convey this feeling to our customers," Vahland said.
"With the new model, we will win over new customer groups for the brand. It marks our growth ambition and points to the brand's future," he said. Skoda has long set a goal of scaling up its annual global sales to 1.5 million cars by 2018, with a third in the Chinese market.
In addition to the new Superb, Skoda will showcase a new Fabia at the Shanghai auto show in April and both will hit the Chinese market later in the year.
It is also planning to introduce an SUV larger than its Yeti into China to meet Chinese customers' growing demand for SUVs. The model is expected to make its world debut in late 2016.
Statistics show that SUV sales surged 36.4 percent year-on-year to hit 4.1 million units in 2014 while the segment of passenger cars as a whole moved 9.9 percent in the year.
Consulting firm IHS said global SUV sales rose 88.5 percent from 2008 through 2013. It predicts that by 2016, one in every five vehicles sold in the world will be an SUV.
Related Stories
Skoda's new design DNA 2014-06-30 07:02
Skoda stepping out of VW's shadow 2014-05-05 08:20
'Dynamic' Skoda looks to bright future 2014-03-31 15:33
Skoda's first SUV Yeti at 2013 Guangzhou auto show 2013-11-23 19:22
Skoda launches Yeti, enters SUV market 2013-11-22 19:26
Today's Top News
China to strictly regulate e-commerce industry
Chinese apps storm into expats' lives
Solar Impulse is go from Abu Dhabi
Merkel reminds Japan to face wartime past
Juncker calls for creation of EU army
Two charged over Nemtsov killing
China likely to maintain 7% growth for 20 years
Moscow releases last Chinese detained for alleged drug trafficking
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Annual legislative and political advisory sessions |
Festival Special: Apps that make holiday shopping easier |
Listed firms caught in anti-corruption net |
Conca set to return to China |
CES: Spotlight on Chinese gadgets |
Yearender: What happened around the globe in 2014 |