On November 28, 2014, J.D. Power Asia Pacific released its 2014 China Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM. The report showed that customers expected more in terms of design, new features and innovative technology. BAIC’s Weiwang 306 was named the winner of APEAL’s minivan segment. In overseas markets, BAIC’s Weiwang 306 is traded by BAIC INTL , which is the international business platform of BAIC Group. Besides, BAIC’s Weiwang 306 is branded as the MZ40 by BAIC Group in the international market. Both terms refer to the same vehicle.

The APEAL Study, which has been published for 12 years, serves as an important benchmark for the appeal of newly released vehicles. The study shows how satisfied customers are with their new vehicle in terms of performance and comfort. The owners are asked to evaluate their vehicles during the first two to six months after the purchase. The study examines 82 attributes across 10 vehicle performance categories: vehicle exterior; vehicle interior; storage and space; audio/ entertainment/ navigation; seats; HVAC; driving dynamics; engine/ transmission; visibility and driving safety; and fuel economy. In total, 14 vehicle segments are eligible for awards in the 2014 China APEAL Study. BAIC’s Weiwang 306 was awarded the best model in the minivan segment.

Not coincidentally, recently the MZ40 (Weiwang 306) was also named 2014-2015 “Car of The Year” in Best Sub Compact Van Category in the Philippines by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI). Both awards reveal that the MZ40 is more and more recognized by different markets with its outstanding performance. With its stylish appearance, extra-large interior, safety features, ergonomic design as well as superior dynamic performance, the MZ40 stands out from other vehicles in the same class. It can be predicted that BAIC’s MZ40 will achieve breakthroughs in other markets as well.

J.D. Power Asia Pacific: As a business unit of McGraw Hill Financial, J.D. Power is a global marketing information services company providing performance improvement, social media and customer satisfaction insights and solutions. The company’s quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. J.D. Power Asia Pacific services both global and local enterprises in the automotive sector. The company has also introduced the Voice of the Customer benchmarking to the retail banking industry.