Ute, van and bus specialist setting up shop soon.

ANOTHER ambitious Chinese automotive brand has announced intent to sell product here.

Jiangling Motors Corporation Limited, which will badge as JMC, identifies as a maker of commercial vehicles, from utes to vans and buses.

A local product lineup, and prices, are set to announce from July.

JMC will represent via Armstrong’s Auto Distribution Holdings operation, which already holds other Chinese makes in its portfolio.

Armstrong’s founder and executive director Rick Armstrong has just been at JMC headquarters in Nanchang, China, to sign a strategic partnership agreement.

The arrangement lends ADH opportunity to venture into the commercial sector, whereas its other out-of-China brands - Smart, Leapmotor, Dong Feng, BAIC and its Arcfox subsidiary - concentrate more on the passenger sector.

A release today cited determination to deliver access to a JMC’s latest commercial vehicle range.

“JMC has strong appeal to Armstrong’s as we have identified a clear opportunity in the market for affordable, durable and capable commercial vehicles suited to the evolving needs of New Zealand drivers and businesses,” Armstrong said in shared comment.

“We see the JMC product portfolio as highly targeted and focused. It will be complementary to our existing brands and strengthen our own and partner dealer operations across the country.

“JMC offers a range of commercial vehicles, including utes, vans and buses, all of which will be particularly desirable to Kiwi commercial owners and drivers.”

JMC produced its first vehicle in 1968 and has well established partnerships with Ford and Isuzu. In addition, it has a world-class supplier base with key partners such as Bosch, Continental, Denso and ZF.

New Zealand will be JMC’s 111th export market and join South Africa and Australia as recently added markets.

Sun Xiaoquan, president of JMIE, JMC’s sole export agent, says the company is excited to enter New Zealand.

“We recognise that New Zealand is a highly competitive market and are confident our all-new models will resonate with drivers who demand capable products that can support both commercial and lifestyle needs,” Sun says.

“JMC vehicles combine strong real-world capability with highly competitive pricing, creating a compelling proposition for New Zealand customers,” said Simon Rutherford, ADH’s chief executive officer.

“Their vehicles feature robust construction which makes them incredibly durable and feedback from users in existing markets is that drivers appreciate the peace of mind knowing their vehicle can handle more than a bit of the rough stuff if required.”