Gasgoo.com (Shanghai February 20) - Following lackluster performances in 2011, several domestic manufacturers have been thinking up schemes to recover this year. Geely is no exception, with Vice President and Sales Manager Liu Jinliang announcing that it scheduling to release seven brand new models in the year, Beijing News reported today.

The Emgrand EX8 (pictured), Gleagle GX7 and Englon SC3 will be among the new models offered by Geely. The EX8 and GX7 are SUVs that the manufacturer has been preparing for some time, while the SC3 is a subcompact. The GX7 will reportedly be built in Chengdu, Sichuan, and come with 1.8 L, 2.0 L and 2.4 L engine options.

"Following the constant introduction of new own brand models, as well as [improvements] in drive train technology and other fields, [domestic] manufacturers will have a relatively strong sales performance in 2012," Mr. Liu predicts. He adds that Geely will be increasing its dealership network in order to ensure that sales targets are met. The manufacturer expects to have 1,000 dealers active, with new branches established in counties throughout the country.