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China’s biggest online used-car dealer Guazi branches out into new car sales too

Site has now raised US$180m from venture capital firms DST Global, Capital Today and Bank of China Group Investment

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The Chinese central government expects factory output to hit 30 million cars by 2020 and 35 million by 2025. Photo: Reuters

Guazi.com, China’s largest online used car sales site by volume, is to start offering new vehicles too, after its latest round of fundraising as competition heats up in the world’s largest car market.

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The move comes hot on the heels of the launch of Maodou, a site that deals in just new cars, both sold and leased. Interested customers can get a hands-on feel of their preferred models in outlets before making their decision.

The Beijing-based Maodou has signed cooperative agreements with 24 leading manufacturers – offering 70 different models – including Changan, SAIC Volkswagen Automotive, Infiniti and Chrysler and Chinese carmaker Guangzhou Automobile Group’s joint venture GAC-Fiat.

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To boost its business, Maodou also provides car loans, offering buyers just a 10 per cent down payment, while keeping monthly payments close to those for used vehicles.

China overtook the US as the world’s largest car market in 2009. Photo: AP
China overtook the US as the world’s largest car market in 2009. Photo: AP

Founded in 2015, Guazi has raised US$180 million in funding from venture capital firms DST Global, Capital Today, and the private equity arm of state-owned Bank of China, Bank of China Group Investment.

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