Chinese carmakers steal the limelight in Detroit

DETROIT: The global financial crisis has stolen much of the glitz and glamour associated with the North American International Auto Show here as global automakers are struggling to cut costs and stay afloat. However, it has also given Chinese vehicle manufacturers an opportunity to showcase their products and plans for the US market.

Leading Chinese automobile brands BYD and Brilliance are exhibiting their cars in the main Cobo Center hall of the exhibition as many leading international companies like Nissan, Suzuki Motor, Ferrari SpA, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce and Porsche have pulled out of the show.

"We welcome the chance to display our cars in the auto capital of the world. We expect the Chinese brands to light up the charm-lost show," said He Guohua, vice president of Shenyang-based Brilliance Auto, which is displaying four models.