Landwind, the Chinese car manufacturer, has received European approval for two models it plans to launch in the UK next year.

NCAP crash test ratings for the 4x4 Ex-pedition and the Fashion MPV are expected to follow early next month.

Landwind was the first Chinese manufacturer into Europe two years ago but got its fingers burnt, spectacularly failing a crash test.

Paul Williams, managing director of European distributor LWMC, said: “We have learned from that and investments have been made to ensure the vehicles meet Euro IV emissions and crash test requirements. We expect to get a three star NCAP rating which is perfectly acceptable for the cars we are selling.”

The two vehicles will be launched initially with 2.4-litre Mitsubishi petrol engines only, although LPG and bio ethanol will also be available. A 2.5-litre diesel will follow once Italian engine builder VM has established its plant in China.

Williams believes that Landwind will be able to establish its vehicles as value brands. “There are opportunities for no nonsense, value for money vehicles with simplicity of offer and choice.

“We will have a pan-European pricing and margin policy – although there will be regional variations on the VAT rate, there will be limited specification options and just three colour choices, silver, black and metallic blue.”

Landwind’s short term plans for Europe will keep a niche value product as its main focus, before moving into the A, B and C-segment in the future.

The Chinese company is currently on the look out for UK dealers.


Landwind’s Brilliance model failed a German crash test last year.