New utes from one of China’s major auto manufacturers are embarking on a local testing and validation programme before two models from the marque officially go on sale in the new year.
Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) is an established Chinese automotive manufacturer with a long history in commercial vehicles, pickup trucks and light-duty transport. It will be represented in New Zealand by Auto Distribution Holdings, the distribution arm of the Armstrong’s group.
Since its first beginnings in 1968, JMC has built its reputation through customer loyalty with practical vehicles designed to meet the needs of commercial operators, businesses and private buyers, consisting of a portfolio which, of particular significance for Kiwis, includes ute derivatives.
One of JMC’s most significant corporate relationships is with Ford Motor Company. Ford became a strategic investor in JMC in 1995 and currently holds a 32 per cent equity stake in the listed company. The relationship has developed through manufacturing, product development and commercial collaboration, with JMC producing a range of Ford-branded vehicles and components for the Chinese and export markets.
Alongside its domestic business, JMC has expanded its international presence through export markets across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, South America and other regions. This export experience provides a platform for introducing its products to new markets, including New Zealand.
“What this means for Kiwis is that we’re introducing a range of models which have been developed working alongside a major international automotive manufacturer and operating within established manufacturing and quality processes,” said David Herbert, JMC General Manager - Auto Distribution Holdings Limited.
“These new utes have already been tried and proven in multiple markets around the world, but we’re taking things one step further with a local validation programme, designed to test the new vehicles in our conditions in preparation for the upcoming launch.”
The current product assessment extends to utes being subjected to a series of trials in Kiwi conditions with a particular focus on towing, payload capability, on and off-road performance, ride and handling, practicality and overall customer suitability.
Findings from the tests are being relayed to JMC engineers in China, with product enhancements being updated as part of the pre-launch process.
“The range will initially consist of two models, the JMC Vigus and JMC Grand Avenue, giving the brand a great first-up presence in the highly competitive ute market,” said Mr Herbert.
“Both models bring a combination of diesel power, robust 4x4 capability and practical double-cab configurations, while placing increased emphasis on interior comfort, technology and everyday usability.
“JMC product is renowned for ease of operation, for example tactile buttons provide an intuitive vehicle interface within the cabin, supplemented with thoughtfully positioned screens which operate at impressive speeds.
“There’s no fiddling and searching for hidden icons or small switchgear when it comes to JMC utes, everything is instinctive and straightforward.”
In New Zealand, both models will offer four-wheel-drive capability and will feature an eight-speed automatic transmission mated to a 2.5-litre Turbo Diesel engine. In the Vigus, this powertrain is capable of producing 123kW of power and 430Nm of torque, which increases in the Grand Avenue to 155kW and 500Nm.
The Vigus combines a purposeful exterior design with a spacious cabin, modern infotainment and a functional cargo tray, making it suited to a broad range of working and recreational requirements.
The Grand Avenue offers a more premium presentation and broader lifestyle appeal, particularly for customers seeking a combination of performance, contemporary styling and everyday comfort.
Further details on final specifications and pricing for the Vigus and Grand Avenue will be announced closer to launch.
