The automatic version of SAIC-GM-Wuling's own brand Baojun 630 hit the Chinese market earlier this week, media sources reported today.

According to SAIC-GM-Wuling Sales Company General Manager Yang Jie, the automatic version 630 is expected to increase the model's overall sales by 20 percent.

Despite the release of the new variant, the 630's sales target for this year will remain fixed at 100,000 vehicles. The car managed sales of 9,000 units and 8,000 units in January and February, respectively.

Sales for March are expected to be over 6,000 units. SAIC-GM-Wuling Deputy general Manager Yuan Zhijun attributes the fall in March to poor market conditions for own brand manufacturers.

Several new Baojun models are expected to be released later this year, including a new 1.8 L engine powered vehicles. SAIC-GM-Wuling is also planning to expand into the subcompact, SUV and minivan segments, Mr. Yuan said. He added that, for the time being, the Baojun brand will be exclusively targeted at the small car market.