2014 Peugeot 308
Sydney-based distributor Ateco has added another badge to its roster, taking over Australian operations of Chinese commercial vehicle brand LDV.
Owned by Shanghai Motor Commercial Vehicle Company (SMCV), a subsidiary of Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), the LDV range arrived in January last year through local importer WMC.
Under Ateco, LDV will be marketed alongside the distributor’s existing brands, including Great Wall, SsangYong, Chery, sports marque Lotus and the recently acquited Foton brand.
Maserati is also handled by Ateco through its European Automotive Imports offshoot.
LDV’s current Australian line-up includes three manual-equipped versions of the V80 van that debuted in 2013, and Ateco’s takeover will see automatic transmissions added to the range.
Passenger-carrying 11- and 14-seat bus versions of the V80 will also be launched through Ateco, along with a smaller one-tonne van and a people-mover.
The takeover will see an expanded dealer network launched, and the company also promises greater parts and service support for owners.
Ateco’s Dinesh Chinappa said today that the brand will also be more competitive - hinting at new pricing - although the company has yet to detail plans on that front.
“We are very bullish about the brand,” Mr Chinappa said.
While the LDV brand is now under Ateco’s control, a full re-launch is planned for later this year, with new pricing and models likely to be detailed then.
MORE: LDV Van Range On Sale In Australia
- Related News & Reviews at TMR ▼
- LDV | Light Commercial Vehicles | Vans
