2012 Beijing Auto Show in Pictures - JAC Rein II (S2) SUV

JAC Rein II (S2) SUV - JAC showcases 13 new cars and 4 powertrains at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The Rein II, previously known as BSUV or SII, attracts most attention on JAC’s stand in the W2 Hall of China International Exhibition Center (New Venue). Sharing platform with the J5 ("Heyue"), Rein II has a 2640mm wheelbase and is 4430mm long, 1840mm wide, and 1660mm tall. Its exterior design is said to be inspired by Hyundai ix35.

The showcased Rein II features a turbo-charged 2.0 liter (HFC4GA31D) that can deliver up to 120kW of power at 5200rpm and 235Nm of torque at 2000-4000rpm. Matched with it is a 6-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). An 1.9CTI diesel engine and 6-speed manual transmission will also be provided.

Market launch is expected in late 2012 or early 2013.

2012 Beijing Auto Show in Pictures:

Great Wall Motor Drops Voleex Brand and Plans New Logo for Its Haval SUVs

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has decided to scrap the Voleex brand, a marque launched only two years ago for its non-SUV passenger cars (sedans, hatchbacks, and MPVs). In a recent interview, Wang Fengying, General Manager of GWM, told reporters that as "Voleex" failed to gain sufficient recognition in GWM’s overseas markets, it was dropped in favor of simply "Great Wall" in naming GWM cars. The Haval and Wingle brands, on other other hand, are retained for GWM’s SUV and pickup-truck lineups, respectively.

In the past year, spyshots have emerged of the new logos of the three GWM divisions: Voleex, Haval, and Wingle, which are distinct from the current "Great Wall" logo. They clearly indicate the company has been attempting to revamp its visual identity.

Ms. Wang also said that GWM was preparing to launch–probably in the second half of 2012–a new, distinct logo for the Haval models and set up separate dealership network to sell them in China. Compared with Voleex, Haval has a longer history and much bigger reputation.

In recent years, GWM and other native automakers have commonly changed their brands or logos and launched new ones, anxious to find a proper place in the fast growing industry. GWM, BYD, Geely, BAIC, and Changan, to name a few, have adopted new corporate logos (the current Great Wall logo was unveiled in 2007), while a group of child-brands have been launched.