The China Factor

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While the growth of China as the top car market is nothing new, Advertising Age has an interesting story on just how much influence the buyers in China have on cars that are sold worldwide, including the U.S.

You may have heard that Buick’s success in China is why the brand is getting so much renewed focus, but it’s not just the nostalgic aura of luxury that Chinese buyers want. Extended wheelbases and more opulent backseats are a major difference from American consumers because many Chinese buyers who can afford new cars are chauffeured and don’t drive.
 
Chinese buyers also have helped revitalize the three-cylinder engine, which Ford is even contemplating bringing to the U.S.
 
While most of the features won’t make it to the States – don’t expect a long-wheelbase BMW 5 Series for example – items like rear-seat air vents and entertainment options could be carried over. Why? Automakers could target them at parents who want the best for their rear-seat passengers and who are constantly chauffeuring them from place to place.
 
U.S. Automakers Embrace ‘Chinafication’ of Global Market (AdAge)