Guangqi Honda began production of its first own brand vehicle last Saturday, the Beijing News reported today. The new car, the Everus S1, is China’s first JV-produced own brand vehicle. Sales will begin via Guangqi Honda dealers next month.

The Everus S1 (pictured) will make use of the Guangqi Honda’s “technological advancements, attention to quality and service network” to achieve solid sales, the JV said. It will be available in 1.3L and 1.5L versions, and is predicted to carry a price tag of under 70,000 yuan ($10,687), 20 percent lower than the Honda Fit.

The S1 will be manufactured at Guangqi Honda’s Huangpu factory in Guangzhou. The Huangpu factory is also responsible for Chinese production of the Honda Accord and City. The JV will make use of the S1 to further develop in Chinese market research and localization.

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