The Beijing Automobile International Corporation (BAIC) has reportedly obtained approval from Daimler to develop new vehicles based on a previous generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class platform.
Automotive News China reported that the state-owned BAIC enterprise will kick off the project with a new mid-size sedan, while an SUV and MPV are expected to follow in due course, each employing the same Mercedes platform.
All three models, according to the report, will be powered by engines built by Daimler as part of its joint venture with BAIC in Beijing, including a 1,8-litre turbocharged petrol mill and a 3,0-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit.
The sedan will reportedly be sold under the Chinese automaker’s Senova brand while the MPV will feature a Weiwang badge.
BAIC, of course, has just invested a record R11-billion in South Africa, and is set to build a completely knocked down (CKD) automotive manufacturing plant near Port Elizabeth.
