A total of 260 LDV V80 commercial vans built by SAIC Maxus, a commercial vehicle marque owned by the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC), were delivered to the Irish Post Office on January 13, reported China News Service.

It was the first time that a Chinese automaker received government procurement from a European Union country.

The China-manufactured LDV V80 beat rivals from world renowned brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Ford to win the bid.

SAIC vice president Lan Qingsong noted at the launch ceremony that the Irish government procurement meant a lot to the Chinese automotive industry. It signified that Chinese-made cars were capable of meeting the EU's high standard in terms of exhaust emissions and energy conservation.

Lan mentioned the "Made in China 2025" strategy in his speech, saying that China shall strengthen its position in overseas markets in order to empower its automobile industry which is an important part of the initiative.

According to Lan, SAIC Maxus has exported its vehicles to 41 countries and regions so far, many of which are developed countries.

The company will deliver 3,000 vehicles to Britain this April, and will endeavor to expand its European market, he added.

(From China Daily）