China's GAC postpones entry into U.S. market amid trade tensions
Updated 19:39, 17-Jan-2019
By Daniel Williams
["china"]
01:59
It looks like something from a futuristic movie. But this concept car, built and designed by Chinese auto company GAC Motor, could become a production reality.
The "Entranze" is clearly eye-catching and underlines the company's intention to make a big splash. It showcases GAC's ambitions to be internationally recognized and to compete as a global automaker.
GAC's stand packed with media to witness the unveiling of the "Entranze". /CGTN Photo

GAC's stand packed with media to witness the unveiling of the "Entranze". /CGTN Photo

GAC has enjoyed a sizable presence at the North American International Auto show for the last few years. Their stand there includes a range of SUVs, minivans and sedans. But the company has not yet entered the American market.
The ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China remains a key concern, and it has now delayed the company's plans to sell vehicles in the U.S. – at least until next year.
"I cannot say that there is no impact at all. Originally our plan was to launch our products into the American market at the end of 2019. However, due to the recent developments in the China-U.S. relationship, we have postponed our plan," said Yu Jun, chairman of GAC Motor.
Although talks between the U.S. and China are ongoing, a potential 25-percent tariff on vehicle imports could derail GAC's hopes of selling cars in the U.S. Despite that, GAC Motor appears to be pushing on with their plans to expand their footprint in the U.S.
"Fluffy dice" on show in the windscreen of GAC's new concept car, the "Entranze". /CGTN Photo

"Fluffy dice" on show in the windscreen of GAC's new concept car, the "Entranze". /CGTN Photo

The company has now established three research and development centers in the U.S., the latest one opening in Michigan. GAC has also registered to open a regional headquarters in Irvine, California.
The company is also focusing on expanding into other territories such as Asia, Russia and Africa.
Although the "Entranze" at this stage is a concept vehicle, the company sees it as the "ultimate road trip" family car. And there is the potential it will go into full production in the future.
"If we get a lot of positive feedback from audiences, we might have the possibility to bring it into production in the future," said Zhang Fan, vice-president of GAC's Research and Development.
That decision aside, the company plans to release two electric vehicles this year.
GAC faces many challenges in the coming years, but it remains determined to take its place as a global auto leader.