Nicolas Cage, the well-known American actor who has made some questionable choices in his movie career, has been officially selected by BAIC of China as a brand ambassador for the automaker’s new line of Senova-branded cars. Now 49, Cage was reportedly chosen because he is a familiar face for the target buyers for the new cars, which are males in their 40s.
BAIC aims to have government officials and regular business buyers to give up on their beloved Audis and drive something locally-made, to promote the products of the Chinese manufacturing industry, and rely less on imports. The Senova D series, which “will hit the market soon”, is based on the older generation Saab 9-5, and it will come with 2.0- and 2.3-liter turbocharged petrol engines.
Nicolas Cage is not the only famous Hollywood face used to promote cars in China, and he is preceded by Brad Pitt (Cadillac XTS) and Barcelona’s number-one striker Lionel Messi, who, in 2010, signed a deal to promote Chery Automobile’s Riich brand.
Now, since the Senova D is based on Saab underpinnings, with independent suspension all-round, relatively modern engines and considerably lower prices than its German rivals, it could make some sense for Chinese officials.
By Andrei Nedelea
Story References: Bloomberg , BAIC Photos Carnewschina
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