Car makers searching for greener, cheaper vehicles are bringing their advanced technology to China.

 

Various clean-energy technologies were tested during the recent Challenge Bibendum Shanghai 2007 held at Anting Auto Town.

 

During the four-day international event, more than 80 vehicles using green technologies were tested in rallies and other contests.

 

It was the second time the challenge has been held in China, where auto makers are racing to develop environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient cars.

 

"Compared with the last session held three years ago which displayed solar-powered models, vehicles this year were more practical and could be put into production within years," an industry insider said.

 

"The progress is not only because of technology improvements, but also because of the urgent demand for alternative fuel vehicles."

 

With crude oil prices hovering near US$100 a barrel, car makers are stepping up their efforts to develop new energy vehicles that can reduce our dependence on oil.

 

All governments are looking for ways to protect the environment and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

 

Much progress has been made on developing hybrid cars, fuel cell cars, hydrogen vehicles, ethanol-powered biofuel models, and electric cars.

 

China is the world's second-largest auto market, with 8.5 million vehicles expected to be sold this year. Last year, vehicle sales jumped 25 percent.

 

Overseas car makers are flocking to bring their new energy vehicles to China to compete in the emerging market.

 

Ford Motor Corp is considering bringing its hybrid cars to China, according to John Viera, director of sustainable business strategies at the United States car maker.

 

"Ford is pursuing multiple technology paths and sometimes works with partners to find new and robust solutions," said Viera.

 

He also called on the government, auto parts makers, institutional researchers as well as policy makers to play a vital role in making new models more accessible for Chinese consumers.

 

Toyota Motor Corp started production of its Prius hybrid in China last year and Honda Motor Corp will also start selling the imported Civic Hybrid in China by the year's end.

 

Last month, General Motors Corp said it would spend US$250 million to build a campus in Shanghai, including a research and development center for alternative fuels.

 

Next year, its first Chinese-made hybrid cars will also hit the market.

 

Compared with global players, Chinese companies are scrambling to catch up. The central government is encouraging domestic makers to develop new technologies.

 

Great Wall Motor produces trucks powered by high-pressure common rail diesel, Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corp produces hybrid sedans, and Wanxiang Group makes electric cars.

 

(Shanghai Daily November 28, 2007)