Despite having its assembly facility locally, one of the lesser-known players in the auto market is BAIC – but the company is looking to change that with the introduction of the radically styled Beijing X55 SUV.
New BAIC X55 SUV
The name identifies the car origins – Beijing Automotive Industry Corp, shortened to BAIC. And this offering is built on the latest generation of the BAIC Group's BMFA (Beijing modular functional architecture) platform chassis, which will underpin future vehicle models and plug-in hybrid vehicle models.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BAIC South Africa, Hugo Hu, says the company has invested in developing self-regulating cars under a new brand, Beijing, underpinned by cooperation with its partners on intelligent connected vehicle technologies
Endowed with modern technology
The new Beijing X55 SUV represents the best-of-breed innovation supported by technology from Daimler.
Basil Costa, Senior Manager at BAIC South Africa, says the Beijing X55 boasts a sophisticated interior and exterior design.
The futuristic design is visible in every aspect of the vehicle. The LED lights, floor door induction, hidden door hands, split rear wing and the shark fin aerial accentuate the ultramodern design.
Modern design with sunroof
A 1,5-litre turbo engine with a 380 dual-clutch transmission (DCT) powers the X55. It offers 130 kW of power and 305 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h recorded 7,8 seconds, and fuel consumption 7.2/100 km. It offers multiple driving modes: eco, comfort, sports and smart.
Inside are engine-style air vents, aircraft-style steering mechanism and 3D light effect textured ambient lighting. Included in this package is a CarbitLink infotainment system.
Built on the BMFA architecture
The X55 is endowed with modern technology. The exterior offers more convenient features, with an induction pop-up, ensuring that the X55 automatically unlocks and pops up the door handle when the key is nearby. It automatically locks and closes the door handle when you get out of the car. Pressing the right side of the door handle supports manual unlocking or closing, automatic and manual dual choice.
