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Chinese auto maker DFSK is about to launch its minivans and pickups in the U.K. and Ireland.
DFSK U.K. is the trading name of Vestatec Automotive Distribution, a new company established specifically to import and distribute DFSK vehicles.
DFSK initially will sell them through 40 dealers under the sub-brand name of Loadhopper. Some 26 dealers have been named thus far.
Vestatec, based in Swindon, U.K., is led by Chairman Jim Tyrrell, previously managing director of Mitsubishi in the U.K. Bart Raats, who spent 20 years with Mitsubishi and Renault in sales and marketing, is managing director.
Yuan Vehicle established a joint venture with Dongfeng in 2003 and began producing minivans and trucks. The JV changed its name to DFSK in 2010.
DFSK says in a statement it plans to sell more than 1,000 units in the first year and 5,000 after five years. More than 60% will be the van model.
DFSK says it plans to be a bolt-on to an existing dealer operation. Dealers mainly will be small independent operators, many with experience selling small vans from Suzuki, General Motors, Mitsubishi, Honda or Daihatsu. Most dealers already will represent one or two existing brands.
“We are very pleased with the high level of interest received from the dealers we have contacted and the number of inquiries taken from interested parties who have heard about our plans in the U.K.,” DFSK Dealer Operations Manager Jack Arkley says.
DFSK says prices will range from £6,999 ($10,800) for the Loadhopper single-cab pickup to £9,999 ($15,400) for the Loadhopper tipper.
Target customers will fall into two main groups: local governments, and small traders such as gardeners, florists, bakers and food-delivery companies.
A new model called the V-series will be launched in 2012. DFSK also is evaluating a range of electric mini-buses and vans that already have been developed.
Tyrrell says the launch of the first Chinese vehicles marks a new phase in the history of the U.K. auto industry.
