MANILA, Philippines - Last November 28, 2014, J.D. Power Asia Pacific released its 2014 China Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. The report showed that customers expected more in terms of design, new features and innovative technology. BAIC’s Weiwang 306 was the highest ranked and named the winner of APEAL’s minivan segment. In the international market, BAIC’s Weiwang 306 is branded as the MZ40 WeVan.
In the Philippines, BAIC is distributed by Bayan Automotive Industries Corporation (Bayan Auto), a subsidiary of Universal Motors Corporation (UMC). The MZ40 was introduced at the Philippine International Motor Show last September 2014.
The APEAL Study, which has been published for 12 years, serves as an important benchmark for the appeal of newly released vehicles. The study shows how satisfied customers are with their new vehicle in terms of performance and comfort. Vehicle owners are asked to evaluate their vehicles during the first two to six months after the purchase. The study examines 82 attributes across 10 vehicle performance categories: vehicle exterior; vehicle interior; storage and space; audio/ entertainment/ navigation; seats; HVAC; driving dynamics; engine/ transmission; visibility and driving safety; and fuel economy. In total, 14 vehicle segments are eligible for awards in the 2014 China APEAL Study. BAIC MZ40 WeVan was awarded the best model in the minivan segment.
Not coincidentally, the MZ40 WeVan was recently named 2014-2015 Subcompact Van of the Year in the recent Car of the Year Awards by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI). Both awards reveal that the MZ40 is more and more recognized by different markets with its outstanding performance. With its stylish appearance, extra-large interior, safety features, ergonomic design as well as superior dynamic performance, the MZ40 stands out from other vehicles in the same class.
BAIC Group is one of China’s five major automotive groups. It is primarily engaged in vehicle manufacturing, parts, service trade, and development. With headquarters located in Beijing and at the Turin Styling Centre in Italy, BAIC Group is one of China’s most complete and advanced automotive groups. In 2013, BAIC Group reached an operating income of 266.3 billion Yuan. In 2014, BAIC Group ranked 248 in the Fortune Global 500 list.
Bayan Automotive Industries Corporation (Bayan Auto) is a subsidiary of Universal Motors Corporation, (UMC), the country’s largest and oldest 100-percent Filipino-owned automotive assembler and distributor and has 61 solid years of experience in the local automotive industry. Bayan Auto is responsible for the distribution and sales of BAIC passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles, marketing, dealer operations, and after sales service for BAIC vehicles in the Philippines.