X-1R To Supply to Large Auto Manufacturer in China

This week has seen some significant developments for X-1R in mainland China. After being invited to visit a major Chinese vehicle manufacturer, X-1R Malaysia, the headquarters for the Asian region, has been given the green light to supply products for their manufacturing division and chain of 4S service centres in China. At this time, we are not at liberty to divulge the name of the manufacturer, so let’s call them Brand X for now. But we can tell you that they are listed on both the Frankfurt and Hong Kong stock exchanges. In 2012, Brand X built 591 000 passenger cars under their own brand and about the same amount as a contract manufacturer, and it ranked within the top 5 largest Chinese car producer. With an annual production capacity of over 1 million vehicles under their own brand, they are also in a joint venture with BMW and are targeting sales of 300 000 units this year. Besides that, they have been joint venture partners with Toyota since 1990. Their primary product is the highly popular Hiace minivan, which is also badged under one of their brands. Their version of the Hiace has proven to be a big hit and has taken some 50% of the local market share. They also manufacture a truck that is ranked fourth in the market.

Brand X's passenger car manufacturing plant  The discussion during the X-1R’s visit ended with a positive note, with Brand X's representative stating: “We are convinced by the quality and benefits of X-1R products and its ability to increase customer satisfaction. We trust NASA’s credibility and believe that X-1R products can help to bring down the emissions challenges in our country.” X-1R is currently progressing to the next step of appointing a sole distributor in China to carry out the supporting activities for this manufacturer.