Maxus / LDV

LDV Group, originally known as Leyland DAF Vans, has had a significant journey in the automotive industry. Here is an overview of the key developments and models over time:

Early Years and Establishment (1993 - Early 2000s)

1. **Formation in 1993:**
  

- LDV was formed in April 1993 following a management buyout of DAF NV's Leyland DAF van manufacturing division.

2. **1994 - Rebranding:**
   - The company was officially rebranded as LDV in January 1994.

3. **Key Early Models:**
   - **LDV 200/400 Series:** Initially known as the K2 and 210 within the plant, these models were later facelifted and rebranded as the LDV Pilot and LDV Convoy, respectively.
   - **LDV Pilot:** A small panel van derived from the British Leyland Sherpa.
   - **LDV Convoy:** A larger van that became a common sight in the UK, used extensively by companies like Royal Mail and utility services.

### Late 1990s - Early 2000s

4. **1998 - 2001 - LDV Cub:**
   - A badge-engineered Nissan Vanette Cargo, sold as LDV Cub, reflecting a strategic partnership with Nissan.

5. **2004 - Introduction of LDV Maxus:**
   - Developed initially as a joint venture with Daewoo Motors, the LDV Maxus was introduced at the end of 2004. The project was later taken over by LDV after Daewoo went into receivership.
   - The Maxus was a significant model featuring a direct injection, common rail diesel engine supplied by VM Motori.

### Ownership Changes and Economic Challenges

6. 2006 - Acquisition by GAZ Group:

   - The Russian GAZ Group acquired LDV, with plans to expand production and enter new markets. However, the global recession and lack of long-term investment led to the suspension of production in December 2008.

7. **2009 - Intellectual Property Sale:**
   - After a series of failed rescue attempts, the intellectual property rights were sold by administrators to Eco Concept, and subsequently to SAIC Motor in 2010.

### Modern Era under SAIC Motor (2010 - Present)

8. **2011 - Rebranding to Maxus:**
   - Under SAIC Motor, LDV was rebranded as Maxus, and production resumed in China from March 2011.

9. **Current Product Line-up:**
   - **Maxus V80:** A modern iteration of the original LDV vans, continuing the legacy in the light commercial vehicle market.
   - **Maxus G10:** A versatile van and MPV, reflecting modern design and engineering.
   - **Maxus T60:** Introduced as a dual-cab pick-up truck, marking Maxus's entry into the utility vehicle segment.
   - **Electric Vehicles:** Maxus has expanded into electric vehicles with models like the eDeliver 3 and eDeliver 9, emphasizing the shift towards sustainable transportation.

The evolution of LDV car models showcases a journey from early British commercial vans to modern, globally recognized light commercial and electric vehicles under the Maxus brand. The strategic rebranding and continuous innovation by SAIC Motor have ensured the company's relevance and growth in the competitive automotive market.