China's Growing Jeep Sales Create Niche Opportunity for SEMA Members

	The ’12 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep sales in China rose 81% in 2011 to 22,294 units, and 2012 is off to a good start with Jeep sales rising 52% in the first four months of this year to 7,887 units, according to LMC Automotive Ltd. By the end of 2012, Jeep will have 150 dealers in China, up from 110 now. Chrysler currently sells the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass and Patriot models in China and plans to introduce the Grand Wagoneer.

"U.S. companies are the world leaders in developing innovative and functional products for Jeeps," said Linda Spencer, SEMA’s director of international and government relations. "The growing popularity of Jeeps throughout China spells enormous export opportunities for SEMA members, and the upcoming SEMA China Business Development program puts U.S. manufacturers in direct contact with buyers of accessories for Jeeps and other brands."

Spencer added that with U.S. grants of up to $1,500 provided by the U.S. government to qualified SEMA members, the time to explore sales potential in China has never been greater.

For more information on how to reserve one of the three remaining slots on the SEMA China Business Development Tour, visit sema.org/china or the 2012 China Business Development Tour Exhibitor Registration page.