A Landrover clone with a starting price of £11,000. A cross between the original Landrover Defender and the Mercedes G Wagon.
The 212 takes its name from the original BJ212 which has a 60 year history. It is built in Beijing by one of the country's oldest vehicle manufacturers which was a BAIC subsidiary before it was sold into the private sector. The BJ212 was originally designed for the armed forces, but modified versions eventually gained popularity with private drivers. Its predecessor was long associated with accessible, no-frills off-roading and the 212 seems poised to continue that legacy. A 2.0T turbocharged Harbin Dongan Auto Engine generates 248 hp and paired with an 8 speed automatic transmission has a top speed of 170 km/h. The new 212 comes with four-wheel drive which includes high and low speed four-wheel drive modes.
Currently, there aren't any plans to sell the 212 into European markets which is a shame because at this price point, it will be very popular with European car buyers. Not forgetting that to sell in European markets, it will have to meet all relevant specifications and that taxes and duties will be added to the selling prices.
Chinese vehicle manufacturers are already supplying various vehicle brands into Europe and seem poised to flood the European market with EVs which are up to 20% cheaper than their European counterparts. Europe is crying foul, alleging that the manufacturing process is subsidised by the Chinese government. Adding tariffs limits European consumer's choice and monetarily penalises them.