Italian motoring glamour hits Shanghai
By Liang Yu (China Daily)
Updated: 2004-09-14 08:42

Italian automakers, behind some of legendary names in motoring history, are to hold a major expo on the eve of the much anticipated Formula One race.

Behind the array of exhibits, ranging from the timelessly stunning Ferrari sport cars to exquisite auto components, which went on show yesterday, is the desire of Italian companies to gain a bigger chunk of China's soaring auto industry.

The four-week auto show entitled "Myth and Speed" has been organized by the Italian Trade Commission (ICE) and Italian Association of Car Industry Suppliers, together with the regional governments of Emilia-Romagna and Piemont, where a cluster of auto manufacturers drive most of local business activities.

In addition to exhibits centred around the historic moments and modern technology in Italy's auto and transport industry, a string of technical seminars and lectures will be held during the event. Bilateral meetings between Italian and Chinese auto firms are expected to afford a raft of business opportunities.

"We want to bring local spectators a magnificent display of Italian style, design and craftsmanship in the auto sector," said Beniamino Quintieri, president of ICE.

"Hopefully, the event will help lay a strong basis for Italian firms in the sector to find their partners and enter the Chinese market," he said.

Italian companies, especially many auto parts and components manufacturers, are aware of the conspicuous growth of China's auto industry, in terms of quantity in recent years and, consequently, the increasing demand for greater diversity and quality, said Quintieri.

Home to Fiat, one of the world's biggest automakers, and some of the world's most glamorous car producers, Italy also boasts a strong auto parts and components industry.

Close