SAIC shopping for LDV
As I have already posted, SAIC is interested in aquiring another struggling British manufacturer: LDV. For those who don't know, LDV manufactures vans and van bodies on both DAF and Leyland chassis and platforms. They produce anything from deliver vans to police vans and ambulances.
From China Car Times:
Quote:
LDV a recently bankrupt British van maker may soon be purchased by SAIC according to American automotive reports that have been echoed in the Chinese automotive press.
If SAIC are succesful in their purchasing of LDV, SAIC will gain access to the LDV dealership network. LDV are also in the process of developing an electric Maxus van, however this is still one step from being a fully production ready vehicle.
SAIC have yet to deny the rumours, and were quoted as saying “Previously we dont have any news regarding LDV that we can issue, we also do not want to comment any further on this issue”
Previously LDV was part of the Russian GAZ group, and has around 800 employees. LDV were denied government aid of 40 million pounds, which has lead to the bankruptcy. A Malaysian company are reportedly interested in purchasing LDV, but rumours of a SAIC takeover are persisting.
If SAIC are were to take over LDV, it would be expected that LDV would be moved into the Longbridge factory, which is 8 miles from LDV’s current location.
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