Recent dispute between China and japan on the belonging of the Senkaku Islands or the DiaoYu Islands has stimulated massive anti-Japanese movements in China. Many Japan-made products were boycotted, numerous flights between China and Japan got suspended as well as many touristic groups to Japan got cancelled. The movement also initiated a number of protests in many major cities in China which turned violent.
Protestants would vandalize Japanese Brand cars and Japanese themed restaurants.
Chinese Car manufacturer Hawtai motor have recently developed a special edition of its newest SUV car. The Hawtai Boliger now comes in a red version with yellow stars on the sides; just like the Chinese national flag. This special edition is called Ai Guo Ban which translates as patriotic edition. The slogan of this car is ” our land is measured by our footsteps”.
There are many chinese car brands in China but it was poorly supported by even the Chinese Consumers due to low quality. Most would consider buying a Japanese Car for it’s efficiency or a European Car for it’s safety.
I think this patriotic edition of the Hawtai Boliger could boost sales in the short-term. But when the patriotic spirit finally dies down. Chinese car industry will go back to its original state. If Chinese Car companies want to succeed, they need to catch up to Japanese and European car qualities.
Sources:
http://www.hawtaimotor.com/html/boliger_aiguo/
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article3900960.ece
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article3900960.ece