Peugeot Displays New Models for Russia in Beijing

This year’s Peugeot display for the Chinese market was not short on surprises in Beijing. Aside from the unveiling of the new brand identity and universal MOTION & EMOTION catch-phrase, the range of vehicles showcased at the event included the SR1 design statement concept, ‘5 by Peugeot’ Hybrid4 large saloon concept, as well as the new Chinese-built 408.

The 408, manufactured in the Wuhan plant in China’s Hubei, is expected to increase Peugeot’s sales volumes by almost 40% compared to 2009 and to boost market share in China.

Peugeot plans to launch a new model each year in China, as well as developing its Dong Feng Peugeot dealer network, which currently comprises 295 sales outlets - in fast-growing cities.

At the same time, Peugeot opened a new manufacturing plant at Kaluga, 180 km South-West of Moscow, which will produce the Peugeot 308, followed by the 4007 for the Russian market.

The plant, a joint venture between PSA Peugeot Citroen and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, will be fully operational in 2012 when it will produce 125,000 vehicles, split 85,000 mid-range sedan vehicles for Peugeot and Citroen and 40,000 mid-range SUVs for Peugeot, Citroen and Mitsubishi.

“Just as Peugeot is launching a number of excellent new cars to boost its share of the extremely competitive European market, we are also making the most of the huge opportunities around the world. These will ensure Peugeot continues as one of the world’s leading brands, bringing innovative, stylish, high quality vehicles to all major markets,” Jon Goodman, MD Peugeot UK, said in a release.