Chief among the discussions was the U.S. governmental agency's safety standards, which are far more wide-ranging and complex than those in place in China.
"When they offer their vehicle for sale, we will treat them like we will treat any company, whether it is a Detroit company or a Japanese company or a Chinese company," Strickland said.
SAIC, among other Chinese brands, has long said that U.S. sales are an important goal. SAIC hasn't specified details about a planned launch into North America, although the company has said that it is currently only focusing on the United Kingdom and India as major export markets.
SAIC acquired the UK's storied MG brand as part of a 2007 merger with then-MG owner Nanjing. SAIC has prospered thanks to its work with General Motors and Volkswagen, which use the company as their government-required partner. All foreign brands that operate in China must do so with a domestic partner.
Eventually, SAIC says it plans to sell 800,000 cars outside of China by 2015 - a goal that could require entry into North America.
References
1.'SAIC among China...' view
