The great Chinese rip-off

The annual Chinese motor show, this year held in the sprawling metropolis of Shanghai, is gaining increasing importance with every passing year. Chinese car buying is on the up and the offerings on show reflect this, with western car manufacturers jostling for position to get the attention of what is rapidly becoming the largest new car market on earth.

However, things are changing. Whereas in the past the show halls would be packed with the latest Bentleys and Audis (and they still are), there is a growing presence from China's increasingly strong domestic car brands. Indeed, industry experts are predicting that in the near future, we will be buying cars made in the People's Republic, and there is evidence to support that, with Great Wall already offering models in the UK.