BAIC steps up efforts on SUVs

Automaker adjusts focus to satisfy consumers' need for larger, more fuel-efficient cars

Beijing Automotive Group Co Ltd, one of China's top five automakers by sales revenue, said it will deploy more resources into developing its SUV business to compete with its established rivals.

The main driving forces behind the move are diversifying tastes and families' demand for second vehicles, not only among Chinese consumers, but also in overseas markets such as South Africa, Brazil and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, according to the company.