New model will be built in China from 2013

Skoda has confirmed plans to build a new compact saloon for the Chinese market.

The Czech firm has not provided specific details on the model, but has confirmed it will be built by Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive Co from 2013 as part of a joint venture between SAIC and Volkswagen.

Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive Co already builds Fabia, Octavia, Superb and Yeti models for Skoda for sale in China.

Skoda chief Winfried Vahland said China "plays a central role for the growth of Skoda" and the country would be the key if it plans to doiuble sales to 1.5 million units by 2018 are to be realised.

Skoda has sold more than half a million units in China since its launch there in 2007. In the first half of 2011, it sold more than 112,000 units in the country.

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