A Chinese Auto Giant Eyes Former Holden Proving Ground

In a move that bridges continents and industries, one of China’s most prominent vehicle manufacturers is poised to acquire the former GM Holden proving ground in Lang Lang. This sprawling automotive testing facility on Victoria’s Bass Coast has become a focal point of interest as Great Wall Motor (GWM), a leading player in the Chinese auto industry, explores its potential acquisition.

A Legacy Site on the Market

The Lang Lang Proving Ground, originally opened by General Motors in 1957, played a pivotal role in the development and testing of countless Australian-made Holden vehicles. It remained an integral part of GM’s operations until local manufacturing ceased in September 2017, leading to the eventual retirement of the Holden brand in 2020.

Currently, the site has been under new ownership since its purchase by Vietnamese automaker VinFast for $34 million in September 2020. However, VinFast’s subsequent exit from Australia left the proving ground on the market once again. It is here that GWM sees an opportunity to further entrench itself within the global automotive landscape.

Strategic Moves and Local Synergy

GWM’s interest in acquiring Lang Lang stems from its strategic need to enhance vehicle development through localized testing. By adapting vehicles specifically for Australian conditions, GWM aims to bolster their market appeal and performance. To facilitate this, they have already begun utilizing the proving ground by setting up a permanent base earlier this year.

In an interview with media outlets, including CarExpert, GWM’s Chief Technology Officer, Nicole Wu, confirmed that negotiations are ongoing. “Yes, we are considering purchasing the proving ground,” she said. While the purchase is not yet finalized, the potential benefits are clear: access to world-class testing facilities and expertise, particularly from individuals like Rob Trubiani—an ex-Holden chassis engineering expert—who has been instrumental in guiding GWM’s tuning efforts.

A Global Footprint with Local Focus

GWM’s existing global footprint includes proving grounds across China, the Middle East, and Siberia. However, acquiring Lang Lang would represent a significant strategic advantage, allowing for more tailored vehicle optimization specifically suited to Australian roads. “Local optimization is important,” emphasized GWM representative Lu. “We have Rob Trubiani’s expertise at our disposal, which will be invaluable in understanding Aussie requirements.”

Trubiani’s deep familiarity with the proving ground—comprising 877 hectares (or 2,167 acres)—ensures that GWM can leverage local knowledge to its advantage. This localized tuning is expected to enhance vehicle performance and broaden their appeal among Australian consumers.

The Future of Automotive Testing

The acquisition would not only mark a significant expansion for GWM but also symbolize the ever-evolving dynamics within the automotive industry, where geographic boundaries are increasingly blurred by strategic international partnerships and acquisitions.

As negotiations continue over pricing—a process Wu describes as straightforward given the facility’s comparative affordability—the future of Lang Lang Proving Ground remains poised on the cusp of a new era. This site that once played a crucial role in developing iconic Australian vehicles is now set to influence the global strategy of one of China’s automotive giants.

In the midst of these developments, GWM stands as a testament to how companies can bridge international divides through strategic investments and localized innovation, promising exciting advancements for consumers around the world.

原始文章来源：CarExpert