Mazda2 Ready for Production In China, Priced At $10,600 And Up

SHANGHAI - September 7, 2007:

Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. (CFMA) will produce the all-new Mazda2 in Nanjing. Priced at 80,000 yuan to 100,000 yuan ($10,600-$13,200), the new model will compete with rivals including Peugeot 206, Citroen C3, Fit and Polo.

Mazda2 made its debut in Europe in advance of the Shanghai International Motor Show. Equipped with Mazda 1.3L and 1.5L engines and five-speed automatic transmission, Mazda2 will go on sale in the Chinese market starting next year.

Mazda has specifically developed the Mazda2 model that will be produced at the Nanjing plant to accommodate the Chinese market, according to a company official from Mazda.

The Nanjing plant is a joint venture invested by the Ford Motor Company and the Changan Automobile Group. The plant will have an annual capacity of 160,000 units and use Mazda’s production system.

The plant will feature cutting-edge eco-friendly and employee-friendly working environment. Manufacturing equipment for stamping, body assembly, painting and final assembly lines has already been installed, and verification trials have begun in line with plans to commence production at the plant by the end of 2007.

For more information about the burgeoning auto industry in China please visit http://www.gasgoo.com/Autobiz/list/7/China-News.html