Korean auto makers have no all-new models – and zero never-before-seen concepts – to present to the more than 1 million consumers expected to visit the exhibition.
Some analysts question whether the program is voluntary as it is being billed, saying it instead may be a way for the auto maker to jettison some of its less-aggressive managers.
Scientists at the laboratory estimate that using magnesium alloys could result in a 7% improvement in fuel economy for every 331-lb. reduction in weight.
The iconic sports car’s $76,400 price tag is competitive for its segment in Korea, which includes the Porsche 911 and the BMW G4, both of which range from $80,000 to $106,000.
Details of the pending deal have not been released, but analysts expect the two auto makers to build vehicles together at an existing plant in Wuhan. Products could include electric vehicles.
The Langdong model will be produced at Beijing Hyundai’s third plant that is in final construction stages. Production should launch in the year’s second half.
“China has quickly become the fastest-growing market for Cadillac,” Chairman Dan Akerson says at the Beijing auto show. “Last year, sales rose by 73%.”
The Korean automotive group currently is supplied with semiconductors from Infineon Technologies, which has facilities in Germany, Japan, Singapore and the U.S.