Holden is expected to make a decision within the next six months on a potential export program that would see Buick badged Commodores sold in China. If the business case can be made, exports of Australia’s favourite sedan would start from around 2006, initially as complete kits for assembly by GM’s Chinese partner, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp, before local content is progressively added. GM Asia Pacific boss Fritz Henderson says the Chinese market is currently growing at the rate of about 1 million vehicles a year. “The best opportunity we have for the Holden cars in China is look at both the short-and long-wheelbase cars, and it is something we are looking at because we think there is a position for the car in the market.”
